Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: The Ultimate Creamy Comfort Food

If you’re craving the kind of dinner that feels like a warm hug, nothing satisfies like crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta . This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta in a crockpot is rich, cozy, and so easy to make.

This crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta isn’t just dinner—it’s creamy, cheesy comfort food at its best.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just looking to avoid standing over a stove, this recipe delivers.

Want the original stovetop version? Check out our full Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe that started it all.

By the end of this article, you’ll know how to make the best garlic parmesan chicken pasta in a crockpot, what kind of pasta to use, the secret to creamy perfection, and even how to adapt it to low-carb or keto diets.

Plus, we’ll cover whether that popular Buffalo Wild Wings garlic parmesan sauce is a good fit (spoiler alert: it is!).

Looking for inspiration? Try this copycat creamy BWW garlic parmesan chicken pasta—a fan favorite on our blog that started the garlic-parm craze.

See why this crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta is one of the most pinned comfort food recipes on Pinterest—save it now for your next cozy dinner!

Let’s dive into why this dish is an instant classic.

Why Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Is a Must-Try

What Makes This Crockpot Chicken Pasta So Special?

Garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipes are all over the place—but using a slow cooker takes this cozy dish to a whole new level.

The crockpot locks in moisture, letting the chicken become unbelievably tender, while the cream, cheese, and garlic meld together into a sauce that tastes like it simmered for hours (because it did).

Beyond flavor, it’s all about convenience.With garlic parmesan chicken pasta in the crockpot, just toss everything in before work and come back to dinner done.

You’ve just mastered weeknight cooking.

The Irresistible Flavor Combo: Garlic, Parmesan, and Cream

The combination of garlic, rich parmesan cheese, and cream isn’t just classic—it’s crave-worthy. Garlic gives it a bold, savory punch.

Parmesan delivers that salty umami kick. And cream smooths it all into a silky, decadent sauce that clings to every bite of pasta and chicken.

Add in seasoned shredded chicken and you’ve got the makings of a dish that works for picky eaters and foodies alike.

Garlic, parmesan, and cream aren’t just delicious—they’re magic in slow cooker meals like crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta, which transforms basic ingredients into full-bodied flavor.

Join the garlic parmesan fan club and see how this viral crockpot chicken pasta is taking over Facebook dinner tables!

Check out our top-rated chicken recipes here—perfect if you want to branch out or repurpose leftovers from this crockpot meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Perfect Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Main Ingredients for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Everything you need to make crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta rich, creamy, and delicious.

To get that signature creamy, cheesy, and garlic-packed flavor, here’s what you’ll need to make this garlic parmesan chicken pasta in your crockpot:

Ingredient	Amount	Purpose
Boneless chicken breasts	2-3 (about 1.5 lbs)	Base protein, shreds easily
Garlic (minced)	4-6 cloves	Key flavor base
Heavy cream	1 cup	Rich, creamy sauce texture
Cream cheese	1 block (8 oz)	Adds thickness and tang
Grated Parmesan cheese	1 cup (fresh preferred)	Salty, nutty, umami punch
Chicken broth	1 cup	Helps thin the sauce slightly
Garlic parmesan sauce	1 bottle (12–14 oz)	Optional flavor booster (like BWW)
Pasta (uncooked)	8–10 oz (penne, rotini, or shells)	Soaks up creamy sauce perfectly
Salt & pepper	To taste	Basic seasoning
Italian seasoning	1 tsp	Adds herbaceous depth

Pro tip: Using Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce? Then you can skip some garlic and reduce salt—it’s already packed with flavor!

Substitutes and Add-ons for Dietary Preferences

Want to tailor this dish for your diet? Here’s how to adjust:

• Low-fat swap: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and milk instead of heavy cream
• Dairy-free: Sub cashew cream or plant-based cream cheese; use nutritional yeast for that cheesy hit
• Low-sodium: Opt for low-sodium broth and use unsalted garlic parmesan sauce
• More protein: Add crispy bacon, shredded rotisserie chicken, or white beans
• Veggie boost: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli during the last 30 minutes of cooking

Don’t miss our easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta variation—it’s quick, flavorful, and kid-approved.

This part lays the foundation for a deeply flavorful dish, and next, we’ll walk through how to actually make it in your crockpot—step by step.

How to Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crockpot Prep

Creating a creamy, dreamy crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta dish is as simple as layering ingredients, setting your slow cooker, and letting the magic happen. Here’s how:

Step 1: Prep the Crockpot
Lightly spray the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray. This makes clean-up easier and helps prevent sticking.

Step 2: Add the Chicken and Broth
Place chicken breasts in the bottom. Pour in the chicken broth and garlic parmesan sauce (if using). Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and fresh garlic.

Step 3: Cook on Low or High

• Low: 4–6 hours
• High: 2.5–3.5 hours
  The chicken should shred easily with a fork once done.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, then return it to the crockpot.

Step 5: Add the Creamy Elements
Stir in the cream cheese, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Add the Pasta
Toss in the uncooked pasta and stir well. Cover and cook for an additional 20–30 minutes on high, or until the pasta is tender and sauce is thickened.

Step 7: Stir and Serve
Once the pasta is al dente and coated in sauce, give it one last stir and serve hot.

This step-by-step method guarantees the creamiest crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta, every single time.

Looking for more cozy ideas? Discover great ideas like our Strawberry Crunch Cake to round out your meal with a sweet treat.

Tips to Get the Creamiest Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Every Time

1. Use block cream cheese — it melts smoother than spreadable versions.
2. Stir halfway through cooking (if possible) — especially when adding dairy or pasta.
3. Preheat your liquids — warming the cream or broth slightly can prevent curdling.
4. Avoid overcooking pasta — pasta will go mushy if left in too long. Check at 20 minutes.
5. Don’t skip the garlic parmesan sauce — if you’re going the store-bought route, sauces like Buffalo Wild Wings’ version add serious depth.

The result? An ultra-creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta made in the crockpot that tastes like you slaved over the stove all day—but really, your slow cooker did all the work.

Next up, we’ll break down the best pasta types to use and why they matter in slow cooker recipes.

Choosing the Best Pasta for Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Best Pasta Types for Creamy Crockpot Recipes

Not all pasta shapes are created equal—especially when they’re simmering in a slow cooker alongside a rich sauce. For this creamy crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta, you want pasta that holds sauce well and doesn’t overcook easily.

Here are the top contenders:

Pasta Type	Why It Works
Penne	Tubular shape captures creamy sauce in every bite
Rotini	Twists hold onto cheese and chicken bits
Shells (medium)	Perfect for scooping up the sauce
Rigatoni	Holds up well in longer cook times
Cavatappi	Spiral shape is great for thick sauces

Avoid long noodles like spaghetti or fettuccine in the crockpot—they tend to clump and break apart unless pre-cooked separately.

Tip: Add the pasta during the final 20–30 minutes of cooking to avoid it turning mushy. You’ll want it al dente, soaking up just the right amount of sauce.

How Pasta Texture Affects the Final Dish

Texture isn’t just about preference—it affects how the dish feels and performs:

• Overcooked pasta becomes mushy and dulls the rich flavor of the garlic parmesan cream.
• Undercooked pasta won’t absorb the sauce properly, leading to a bland, dry bite.
• Al dente pasta creates a perfect bite and enhances the sauce’s creamy consistency.

Stir the pasta into the creamy base once the chicken is shredded and cream cheese has melted. Let the slow cooker finish the job, creating a dish where every bite has bold flavor and smooth texture.

If you loved this pasta talk, don’t miss our top-rated buffalo wild wings copycat garlic parmesan recipe for even more inspiration.

Next up, we’ll explore why cooking this in a crockpot is way better than using a stovetop and what it means for busy home chefs.

Crockpot vs. Stove: Why Slow Cooking Wins for Garlic Parmesan

Benefits of Using a Crockpot for Chicken Pasta Recipes

When it comes to garlic parmesan chicken pasta, the crockpot isn’t just a shortcut—it’s a flavor powerhouse.

Here’s why the slow cooker version often outshines stove-cooked pasta dishes:

1. Set it and forget it
   Toss your ingredients in, set the heat, and walk away. It’s a dream come true for busy families or anyone juggling a full day.
2. Unmatched moisture retention
   Crockpots trap steam and cook low and slow. This means your chicken won’t dry out—it becomes fork-tender and super juicy.
3. Deeper flavor development
   Garlic, parmesan, herbs, and cream have hours to mingle and intensify. The sauce becomes silky, rich, and perfectly infused with flavor.
4. Less cleanup, fewer pots
   You cook everything—chicken, sauce, and even pasta—in one pot. Minimal dishes, maximum comfort.
5. Perfect for meal prep
   Make a big batch and refrigerate or freeze leftovers (we’ll get to how in Part 7).

When comparing it to stove cooking, the difference is clear: stove-top recipes often need constant stirring, monitoring, and balancing the cream so it doesn’t curdle.

With the crockpot? The machine does it all.

Time-Saving Crockpot Hacks for Busy Cooks

Want to speed things up or make the process even more hands-off? These time-saving tricks will level up your crockpot game:

• Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken
  Add it near the end—just warm it through with the sauce and pasta.
• Prep the night before
  Assemble ingredients in the crock insert, refrigerate overnight, then pop into the base and cook the next day.
• Microwave cream cheese before adding
  It blends into the sauce more easily when softened first.
• Use slow cooker liners
  Cut cleanup time in half. No more soaking or scrubbing burnt cheese.
• Set a timer
  Use a programmable crockpot with an auto-warm function. No need to rush home at the 4-hour mark.

Slow cooking also gives you flexibility to add ingredients in stages—chicken early, pasta late—ensuring ideal texture in every layer.

Can You Use Store-Bought Garlic Parmesan Sauce in This Recipe?

Testing Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce

If you’re short on time or craving bold, restaurant-style flavor, Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce is your secret weapon.

And yes—it works incredibly well in crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta.

Here’s what makes it a winner:

• Bold flavor, no effort: It’s packed with garlic, parmesan, a hint of heat, and creamy richness—perfect for slow cooker recipes.
• Saves steps: You can skip mincing garlic, balancing salt, or blending spices.
• Great consistency: Thick enough to coat chicken and pasta evenly without thinning out too much in the crockpot.
• Versatile: Works with other proteins too (hello, shrimp or turkey).

How to use it: Swap in 1 full bottle (12–14 oz) for the cream cheese, garlic, and part of the cream. You’ll still want to add some Parmesan and broth to round it out.

Buffalo Wild Wings Sauce Pros	Considerations
Saves prep time	High in sodium
Consistent creamy texture	Some artificial ingredients
Adds spicy depth	Slightly tangier than homemade
Kid-friendly + versatile	May overpower milder palates

Homemade vs. Store-Bought: What Tastes Better?

That depends on what you’re looking for:

Feature	Homemade Sauce	BWW Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Custom flavor control	✅	❌
Convenience	❌	✅
Cost-effective	✅	❌ (usually $4–5 per bottle)
Bold garlic-cheese flavor	Moderate	Intense
Best for picky eaters	Yes	Possibly too tangy

If you want to keep it clean, homemade gives you more control over sodium, sugar, and additives. But if you want bold, no-fuss flavor, BWW sauce delivers—especially in a crockpot where all the flavors get slow-simmered to perfection.

Don’t miss our creamy buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan pasta recipe if you’re trying this sauce for the first time—it’s a crowd favorite!

Storage, Reheating, and Freezing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Best Practices for Storing and Reheating

Made a big batch? No worries—crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta stores and reheats like a dream if you follow a few simple rules.

Refrigeration Tips:

• Let the pasta cool to room temperature before storing
• Transfer to airtight containers
• Store in the fridge for up to 4 days

Reheating Methods:

Method	Instructions
Microwave	Add 1 tbsp milk or cream, cover loosely, and reheat in 30-sec intervals
Stovetop	Warm gently over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or milk
Oven (covered)	Heat at 300°F for 15–20 mins if reheating a large portion

Pro tip: Stir occasionally while reheating to redistribute sauce and keep pasta creamy. If the sauce has thickened too much, thin it with a splash of broth, milk, or cream.

Avoid reheating multiple times—portion what you need and heat once to preserve taste and texture.

How to Freeze and Thaw Without Losing Flavor

Planning to freeze your garlic parmesan chicken pasta in a crockpot? Here’s how to do it without losing the creamy texture.

Freezing Instructions:

1. Allow pasta to cool fully.
2. Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers (remove as much air as possible).
3. Label with date.
4. Freeze for up to 2 months.

To thaw and reheat:

• Thaw in the fridge overnight
• Reheat gently (microwave or stovetop) with a touch of added liquid to refresh the sauce

Avoid freezing with pasta already mixed in if you’re meal-prepping ahead. Instead:

• Freeze the sauce and shredded chicken
• Add fresh-cooked pasta after reheating for best results

Looking for more make-ahead meals? Check out our chicken dinner collection full of family-friendly, freezer-ready options.

Making This Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Keto-Friendly

Low-Carb Ingredient Swaps and Tips

You don’t have to give up your favorite comfort food to stay low-carb. With just a few smart swaps, you can turn crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta into a keto-friendly powerhouse full of flavor, fat, and protein—with minimal carbs.

Here’s how to make the dish low-carb:

Swap This	For This	Why It Works
Regular pasta	Zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles	Low-carb, keto-approved, and satisfying
Cream cheese	Full-fat cream cheese	Already keto, just ensure no added sugars
Store-bought sauce	Homemade garlic-parm sauce	Control carbs, avoid hidden sugars
Chicken broth	Bone broth	Adds collagen + deeper flavor

Bonus keto tip: Add 1 tbsp of butter or ghee at the end for extra richness and fat content—perfect for keeping macros on point.

Don’t miss our easy garlic parmesan chicken variation—it’s naturally lower in carbs and can be enjoyed without pasta.

How to Keep It Creamy Without the Carbs

Creaminess is key to this dish, so how do you keep the texture lush without pasta soaking up the sauce?

• Use fewer liquids: Start with just ½ cup broth if you’re skipping pasta.
• Shred chicken finely: This lets the meat carry the sauce better, mimicking the body pasta would add.
• Add cheese at the end: Parmesan helps thicken without starches.
• Use xanthan gum: Add a pinch (⅛ tsp) to thicken your sauce without flour or cornstarch.

Optional add-ins for keto richness: sautéed mushrooms, spinach, bacon bits, or roasted cauliflower.

These keto tips let you enjoy all the creamy, garlicky goodness of the original dish—without kicking yourself out of ketosis.

Variations and Creative Twists to Try

You can swap the meat, add veggies, or even make it spicy—crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta is endlessly versatile.

Serve this version of garlic parmesan chicken pasta in The crockpot for an easy, weeknight win.

Add Veggies, Spice, or Swap the Protein

Want to give your crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta a fresh spin?

This recipe is ultra-adaptable, making it easy to add flavor, nutrition, or bold new textures without losing the creamy, garlicky soul of the dish.

Creative Add-Ins:

Ingredient	Effect on Dish
Spinach or Kale	Wilts perfectly in the creamy sauce
Sun-Dried Tomatoes	Adds tang and color
Broccoli Florets	Packs in fiber and balances richness
Crushed Red Pepper	Adds a spicy kick
Sautéed Mushrooms	Brings an earthy depth

Toss these in during the final 30 minutes for best texture, especially veggies like broccoli or kale.

Swap the Protein:

• Shrimp: Add during the last 15–20 minutes so they don’t overcook
• Turkey: Great post-holiday use of leftovers
• Italian sausage: Adds bold, spicy flavor—browned before adding works best
• Tofu (for a meatless twist): Use extra-firm, pan-seared beforehand

Switching protein can totally transform this meal without changing the base sauce. That’s the power of building off a solid garlic-parm flavor.

Family-Friendly and Kid-Approved Adjustments

This dish is already a hit with picky eaters, but here are a few tweaks to lock in that clean-plate win:

• Mild it down: Use less garlic or swap out spicy elements like BWW sauce
• Use short pasta shapes: Easier for little hands to scoop up
• Serve it “deconstructed”: Chicken and pasta separated, sauce on the side
• Top with mozzarella and broil for a cheesy crust: Makes it feel like pasta-bake night!

Don’t miss our sweet treats to serve after this rich meal—our readers love pairing creamy garlic pasta with a cool strawberry crunch cake.

Best Questions About Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Can I use pre-cooked chicken in crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta?

Yes, you can absolutely use pre-cooked chicken—just add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking. Shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works great and still soaks up that rich garlic parmesan flavor. It’s a smart time-saver and keeps the texture tender.

What pasta works best with garlic parmesan chicken in the slow cooker?

Short, sturdy pastas like penne, rotini, cavatappi, and medium shells are best. They hold up well to slow cooking and absorb the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Avoid long noodles like spaghetti—they tend to break apart in the crockpot.

How long should I cook garlic parmesan chicken pasta in the crockpot?

Cook the chicken and sauce for 4–6 hours on low or 2.5–3.5 hours on high. Once the chicken is fully cooked and shredded, add pasta and cook for another 20–30 minutes on high until it’s tender and fully coated in the creamy garlic parmesan sauce.

Can I freeze crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta for later?

Absolutely! This creamy crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta freezes beautifully when stored properly

How can I make this recipe keto or low-carb?

Skip the pasta and swap in low-carb options like zucchini noodles, shirataki noodles, or roasted cauliflower. Use full-fat cream cheese and homemade garlic parmesan sauce to control carbs. Add leafy greens or mushrooms for extra fiber and flavor without spiking your carb count.

Is Buffalo Wild Wings garlic parmesan sauce good for this recipe?

Absolutely. BWW Garlic Parmesan Sauce adds bold, tangy, cheesy flavor that fits perfectly in a crockpot. It’s a time-saver and a flavor booster. Just be mindful of sodium levels and adjust seasonings accordingly. It’s a favorite shortcut among garlic parmesan fans!

Conclusion: Make Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Your Go-To Comfort Dish

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or prepping ahead for easy dinners, crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta delivers on every level. It’s creamy, savory, deeply comforting, and—best of all—practically cooks itself.

From choosing the right pasta and sauce to adapting it for keto, storing leftovers, or getting creative with proteins and veggies, This crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe proves you don’t need a fancy setup to serve serious comfort.

Don’t miss our top-rated chicken pasta recipes for more slow cooker wins and flavor-packed inspiration.

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Tips for Meal Prep and Leftovers

Why This Pasta Is Perfect for Weekly Meal Prep

If you’re someone who plans ahead, crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta is your best friend. It holds up beautifully in the fridge, the flavor deepens after a day, and it reheats into a creamy, satisfying lunch or dinner.

Here’s why it’s ideal for batch cooking:

• The sauce stays rich and flavorful
• The chicken doesn’t dry out
• It pairs well with veggies or a side salad
• It can be portioned easily into containers
• Works great for both kids’ lunches and adult meal prep

Whether you’re prepping for a busy workweek or just trying to reduce kitchen time, slow cooker garlic parmesan chicken pasta checks every box.

How to Store and Reheat Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for Best Results

To keep this crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe tasting just-cooked, follow these tips:

• Cool fully before storing in airtight containers
• Use glass containers if possible—they keep the sauce creamier
• Reheat gently on low power or stovetop with a splash of cream or broth
• Avoid microwaving it dry—add a bit of liquid and stir halfway

Freezing? Separate the pasta from the sauce if you want the best results. You can also freeze the sauce and chicken mix alone and boil fresh pasta later—ideal for texture lovers.

For the base recipe with creamy garlic sauce and perfectly seasoned chicken, see the main Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta dish.

Great Side Dishes to Serve with Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Want to turn your garlic parmesan chicken pasta in a crockpot into a full meal? These sides make the perfect pairing:

• Roasted broccoli or Brussels sprouts
• Garlic bread or cheesy flatbread
• Caesar or arugula salad
• Sauteed green beans
• A simple cucumber and tomato salad

This creamy crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a rich main dish, so a crisp or crunchy side makes a nice contrast.