Garlic Chicken Pasta

 

Garlic Chicken Pasta is a heartwarming dish that brings the whole family to the table. This recipe is perfect for those busy weekdays when you want to prepare a delicious and nutritious meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. The slow cooker does most of the work, infusing the chicken with rich garlic flavors as it becomes tender and juicy. The origins of this comforting dish lie in the blend of Italian-inspired flavors and the convenience of modern cooking. It's a dish that offers warmth and familiarity, making it a favorite in many homes.

This Slow Cooker Garlic Chicken Pasta pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables, like broccoli or green beans. You can also serve it with a loaf of crusty garlic bread to soak up all the savory sauce. For a touch of indulgence, consider a crisp white wine or a sparkling water infused with lemon slices to complement the garlicky flavors.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
8 oz cream cheese, softened
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 pound penne pasta, cooked according to package instructions
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Pour the mixture over the chicken breasts.

Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender.

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.

Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the sauce.

Add the cooked penne pasta to the slow cooker and mix until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.

Variations & Tips

For picky eaters or children, you can add some hidden veggies like finely grated carrots or zucchini to the slow cooker for some extra nutrition. If you're a fan of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce mix for a little heat. You can also substitute the penne pasta with your favorite pasta shape, such as fusilli or rigatoni.