High Protein Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Slow Cooker (Print Version)
Enjoy a high protein garlic parmesan chicken pasta, effortlessly made in your slow cooker. A delicious, satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 240 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 255 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Italian
# Ingredients:
→ The Protein Powerhouse
01 -
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 -
1/2 tsp salt
03 -
1/4 tsp black pepper
→ Slow-Cooker Flavor Base
04 -
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
05 -
6 cloves garlic, minced
06 -
1 tbsp dried Italian seasoning
07 -
1 tsp onion powder
08 -
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
→ Creamy Parmesan Dream
09 -
8 oz block cream cheese, softened
10 -
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
11 -
1/2 cup whole milk
→ Pasta & Fresh Finish
12 -
12 oz penne or rotini pasta
13 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Season 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Place the seasoned chicken into your slow cooker. This is the foundation for your delicious High Protein Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta | Slow Cooker.
02 -
Pour 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth over the chicken. Add 6 cloves minced garlic, 1 tbsp dried Italian seasoning, 1 tsp onion powder, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (if using). Stir gently to combine the aromatics.
03 -
Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
04 -
Carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts from the slow cooker and place them on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Set the shredded chicken aside for later incorporation into your High Protein Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta | Slow Cooker.
05 -
Add 8 oz softened block cream cheese, 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 1/2 cup whole milk to the slow cooker with the remaining liquid. Stir well until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
06 -
While the sauce is thickening, cook 12 oz penne or rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly. Do not add uncooked pasta directly to the slow cooker, as it will absorb too much liquid.
07 -
Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Add the drained cooked pasta and stir everything together until well combined and coated in the creamy sauce. Garnish your High Protein Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta | Slow Cooker with 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley before serving.
# Notes:
01 -
For a leaner option, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the breasts. Adjust cooking time slightly if needed, as thighs tend to cook a bit faster.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
03 -
Serve this hearty pasta dish with a simple side salad or some steamed green beans to complete the meal and add extra vegetables.
04 -
To ensure your cream cheese melts smoothly, make sure it's at room temperature before adding it to the slow cooker. This prevents lumps and creates a silkier sauce.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Slow cooker
02 -
Measuring cups
03 -
Measuring spoons
04 -
Large pot
05 -
Stirring spoon
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 670 kcal
Total Fat: 25 g
Total Carbohydrate: 46 g
Protein: 67 g