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This crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe is an extremely simple and versatile one, which allows you to use the ingredients you have on hand. So, keep in mind from the beginning that there is no need to follow a strict list of ingredients, but you have the freedom to cook easy crockpot pasta according to your preferences and possibilities. Itβs easy to understand that you will effortlessly achieve a creamy chicken crockpot pasta dish that will be enjoyed by both children and adults.
You can find a lot of easy and delicious homemade Crockpot meals here, on the blog.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
As I already mentioned, for crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta you can use many ingredients, starting from those suggested in the name of the dish, but having the possibility to play with many other vegetables or spices.
I chose to use, in addition to garlic, chicken and parmesan, tasty vegetables such as onions and red bell peppers, and vegetables that contribute to obtaining a creamy texture, such as zucchini and mushrooms. In addition, I chose to cook easy crockpot pasta using homemade tomato juice, which is extremely tasty and healthy. More details about homemade tomato juice can be found in the article dedicated to Food Preservation Methods.
But don’t limit yourself to what I used, take advantage of the fact that this versatile creamy chicken crockpot pasta recipe allows you to use your favorite ingredients. In this sense, I encourage you to use the vegetables and spices that are to your family’s taste, or that respect the culinary traditions of your country.
However, I think it is important to use the main ingredients that derive from the name of this dish, namely: garlic, chicken and parmesan, because they have an essential role in achieving an amazing taste for this easy crockpot pasta meal.
Super Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
I made this amazing Crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe using the Crockpot Express Multicooker, but you can use a different multicooker or a slow cooker as well. Also, if you donβt own such a kitchen device, it is ok to simply use a large pot and cook on the stove.
Crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta β an easy and versatile crockpot pasta recipe
Equipment
- 1 Multi-cooker / Slow cooker / Pot
- 1 Knife
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 Bowls
Ingredients
- 3 pcs Boneless chicken thighs cut into pieces
- 6 pcs Garlic cloves
- 1 pc Shallot / onion
- 1 pc Red bell pepper
- 2 pcs Zucchinis
- 5-7 pcs Champignon mushrooms
- 500 g Tomato juice
- 300 g Uncooked pasta
- Water
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Olive oil
- Optional: heavy cream
Instructions
- First, chop the onion and the red bell pepper julienned; Also, cut the clean and peel the mushrooms and slice them;
- Also, cut the zucchinis into small pieces; The garlic cloves can the chopped of crushed with a garlic press;
- Optional: If you want to brown the chicken and the vegetables before cooking, select the BROWN/ SAUTEE program of the Crockpot Express Multicooker for 10 minutes; Once the pot is heated, add 1 tbsp olive oil and place the chicken and the chopped vegetables into the pot. Add salt and pepper and stir-fry them for 10 minutes;
- Place the chicken, onions, garlic, red bell pepper, mushrooms and tomato juice into the cooking pot (without pasta and parmesan) and cook the sauce for 15 minutes on the POULTRY program; If you are cooking in the stove, into a pot, make sure to cook the sauce for 30 minutes, by stirring from time to time;
- Once the program is over, release the pressure valve and open the lid. Add the zucchinis and the uncooked pasta. If necessary, add water to make sure you have enough liquid to cook the pasta;
- Optional: For super creamy sauce, add 200 ml heavy cream;
- Cook the pasta into the sauce for 7 minutes using the MANUAL program;
- When the program is over, release the pressure valve, open the lid and add a generous amount of shredded parmesan over the hot pasta. Incorporate the parmesan using a spatula;
- Serve the pasta hot, with extra parmesan sprinkled on top of them;
Nutrition
Different types of crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta
In general, pasta sauces are divided into two large categories:
- with white sauce
- with red sauce.
If you choose to cook easy crockpot pasta using tomato juice, as I did, then you will get a creamy red sauce for your pasta, where the sweet taste of tomatoes will predominate.
If, however, you prefer white sauce for pasta, then I recommend replacing tomato juice with sour cream, in which case the final taste of the creamy chicken crockpot pasta will be dominated by the aroma of garlic.
So, choose the sauce according to your taste for this wonderful crockpot pasta.
If you are interested in cooking a homemade pasta sauce made from natural ingredients, try this amazing 7 ingredients Pasta Sauce Recipe. I guarantee you it will be a must both for you and for your kids.
The secret for creamy chicken crockpot pasta
There are several factors that can determine the creamy texture of a Crockpot pasta dish. But let’s analyze them one by one:
- first of all, it is important to cook the pasta in the sauce. This means that, using a multicooker or a simple pot if you donβt have such a kitchen device, you will add all the necessary ingredients for the sauce, you will cook the sauce a little, especially if you use a simple pot, after which you will add at the end the uncooked pasta, and you will boil them in the previously prepared sauce. Thus, the starch from the pasta will thicken the sauce and you will achieve that desired creamy texture.
- secondly, it is important to use vegetables that help to obtain a creamy texture of the sauce. Among these, I would mention zucchini, mushrooms or eggplant. Besides the good taste, they contribute significantly to the thickening of the sauce.
- thirdly, even if you are fans of red sauces for pasta, I recommend you to use a little heavy cream, if you want to get a creamy texture. Indeed, the sauce will have a more orange color, but this mix of tomato juice and heavy cream is delicious and, in addition, it gives a creamy texture to the sauce.
Basically, following any of the steps listed previously, or all of them together, you will get extremely tasty and creamy crockpot garlic parmesan chicken paste.
3 Simple Cooking Methods
Please keep in mind that this dish is versatile both in terms of the ingredients used and the cooking methods.
So, as with all the Crockpot recipes on this blog, this crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta can be cooked in several ways, namely:
- by using a multicooker;
- by using a slow cooker;
- by using a simple large pot.
If you use a multicooker, like me, I recommend that you follow the steps in the recipe, so that you will cook the sauce first, and in the end you will cook the pasta in the previously prepared sauce. I guarantee that in this case you will get extremely delicious creamy chicken crockpot pasta.
If you will use a slow cooker, then you have the possibility to introduce all the ingredients into the cooking pot from the beginning, including the uncooked pasta. This way, by cooking the slow cooker pasta for 3.5 hours at HIGH temperature or 7 hours at LOW temperature, you will get creamy garlic parmesan pasta without any effort, which can be cooked overnight or while you are at work.
If you will cook the pasta in a simple pot, I recommend that you follow the steps in the recipe, but adapted to traditional cooking, so that you will cook the sauce first, and finally you will boil the pasta in it. For this cooking method, please make sure you have enough liquid to cook the pasta but, if necessary, you can add water during the pasta cooking process.
Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips
Regarding freezing crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta, I do not recommend pasta dishes to be frozen. Instead, the sauce can be frozen without problems. Then, if needed, it can be defrosted and pasta can be boiled in it, so you can enjoy a portion of fresh easy crockpot pasta.
So, confidently use freezer casseroles or hermetically sealed bags to freeze the pasta sauce, made with chicken, garlic and whatever other ingredients you want, and keep it in the freezer for a long period of time, up to a year.
The pasta already cooked in the sauce can be kept in the refrigerator for a few days, but not more than a week, and if necessary, you can reheat it in the pot or using a thermal resistant bowl in the microwave.
Obviously, reheated pasta will not be as creamy as freshly cooked ones, but the taste will be just as delicious.
Serving and Presentation
I recommend that you enjoy this crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta warm meal, with a little grated parmesan on top, either for lunch or dinner.
It seems to me that it is a warm dish suitable both for a simple family meal and for a special occasion, such as a birthday. Regardless of the occasion, children are always attracted to a delicious portion of pasta.
I donβt know about you, but in my family, pasta dishes are always a hit! If your kid also loves pasta, check out this amazing homemade Mac and Cheese recipe.
Health Benefits of crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta
Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not just a feast for the senses; it’s a dish brimming with nutritional benefits, thanks to its carefully chosen ingredients. Each component contributes to a balanced diet, making this dish a hearty and healthful choice for any meal.
- Chicken Meat: A lean source of high-quality protein, chicken supports muscle growth and repair. It’s also a good source of vitamins B6 and B12, essential for energy metabolism and brain health.
- Garlic: Known for its potent medicinal properties, garlic boosts the immune system, reduces blood pressure, and has been linked to improved cholesterol levels. Its rich flavor also means you can use less salt without sacrificing taste.
- Parmesan: This aged cheese adds a depth of flavor and provides calcium, protein, and vitamin A. Calcium is vital for bone health, while vitamin A supports vision and the immune system.
- Tomato Juice: Rich in vitamin C and lycopene, tomato juice offers antioxidant benefits, protecting against certain types of cancers and contributing to heart health.
- Mushrooms: Low in calories yet rich in nutrients, mushrooms are an excellent source of B vitamins, selenium, and potassium. They support immune function and provide a meaty texture without the added fat.
- Red Bell Peppers: High in vitamins A and C, red bell peppers are great for skin and eye health, and their high antioxidant content helps combat oxidative stress.
- Onions: Offering a good dose of vitamin C, onions are associated with reduced risk of heart disease and have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Zucchini: This versatile vegetable is high in fiber, water, and antioxidants, making it great for digestion and hydration while also providing essential nutrients like potassium and manganese.
- Olive Oil: A cornerstone of heart-healthy diets, olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. It’s beneficial for heart health, reducing inflammation, and may help in preventing strokes.
Together, these ingredients create a symphony of flavors and health benefits in Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Be confident to cook this healthy and delicious creamy chicken crockpot pasta for you family, they will love it!
I hope you will try this easy and delicious Crockpot pasta dish, which will definitely be a hit among kids. Please remember to share your thoughts, reviews and suggestions in the comments section. Until the next amazing homemade recipe here on easeyourcooking.com, I wish you all a great time spent with your loved ones. Bye π
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you cook pasta in crockpot?
Of course you can. Whether you are using a Crockpot clow cooker, or a Crockpot Multicooker, you can cook pasta using your kitchen device. All you have to do is to cook the pasta in the sauce, by using the necessary time, according to your cooking method.
How to slow cook chicken pasta?
It is easy to cook pasta using a slow cooker. All you have to do is add the uncooked pasta with all the other ingredients in the pot, making sure you have enough liquid for pasta to cook. Then, select the right time in order to properly cook your pasta into the Slow cooker. I recommend using 2.5-3.5 H on High Temperature and 6-7H for Low Temperature.
Can you cook chicken pasta in a slow cooker?
Of course you can. All you have to do is adjust the cooking time in order to properly cook your chicken pasta. I recommend using 2.5-3.5 H on High Temperature and 6-7H for Low Temperature.
How long does pasta take to cook in the crockpot?
It depends on the kind of pasta you choose and the way you want to serve them. Some people prefer to serve them al dente, I prefer well done. Thatβs why I recommend you to cook pasta for 2.5-3.5 H on High Temperature and 6-7H for Low Temperature.
Can I put dry pasta in a slow cooker?
It is easy to cook dry pasta using a slow cooker. All you have to do is add the uncooked pasta with all the other ingredients in the pot, making sure you have enough liquid for pasta to cook.
How long does uncooked pasta take in slow cooker?
It depends on the kind of pasta you choose and the way you want to serve them. Some people prefer to serve them al dente, I prefer well done. Thatβs why I recommend you to cook pasta for 2.5-3.5 H on High Temperature and 6-7H for Low Temperature.
Do I have to brown chicken before slow cooker?
If you are using a slow cooker that allows you to brown the chicken before cooking, I recommend you to do that. This way, the chicken will achieve a good flavor, rather that the one specific to boiled chicken. The CrockPot Express Multicooker allows you to brown your ingredients before cooking them using the slow cooking program or one of the preset under-pressure programs.
Does chicken get rubbery in slow cooker?
Chicken breast can get rubbery in the slow cooker it is over cooked. I mostly use chicken boneless thighs, which are more tender and donβt get rubbery even when over cooker.
Why does chicken get tough in the crockpot?
Chicken breast can get tough in the slow cooker it is over cooked. I mostly use chicken boneless thighs, which are more tender and donβt get tough even when over cooker.
