Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta! Make this fabulous pasta for a quick dinner.
Ingredients
1 bottle Parmesan Garlic Sauce 12 oz
2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 cup milk
8 oz cream cheese cut into blocks
4 oz shredded or grated parmesan cheese
12 oz pasta
US Customary – Metric
Instructions
Place chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour an entire bottle of Parmesan Garlic Sauce over the chicken.
Fill Parmesan Garlic Sauce Bottle with milk and shake. Add milk and remaining sauce to slow cooker.
Add cream cheese cut into blocks.
Add 4 oz parmesan cheese and stir everything together to combine and coat the chicken.
Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
Shred Chicken with two forks and return to slow cooker and mix to combine in sauce.
Cook pasta according to package and pour pasta into slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Here’s a list of frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:
- What is Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delicious and flavorful dish that typically consists of cooked chicken, pasta, and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. The sauce is made with ingredients like garlic, Parmesan cheese, cream, and sometimes butter, creating a rich and savory flavor.
- How do I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
- The basic steps involve cooking chicken, preparing a garlic Parmesan sauce, and combining them with cooked pasta. You can find various recipes online, but the general process includes sautéing chicken, making a creamy sauce with garlic and Parmesan, and tossing it all together with cooked pasta.
- What type of pasta is best for this dish?
- Fettuccine or linguine are often used for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, as their broad and flat shapes work well with the creamy sauce. However, you can also use other pasta varieties like penne or rigatoni.
- Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
- Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken to save time. Leftover grilled or roasted chicken works well in this dish. Simply shred or dice the pre-cooked chicken and add it to the pasta during the final steps.
- Is it necessary to use fresh Parmesan cheese?
- While fresh Parmesan cheese is ideal for the best flavor, you can use pre-grated Parmesan cheese if you’re looking for convenience. However, freshly grated Parmesan tends to have a more robust taste.
- Can I make it ahead of time?
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare components in advance. Cook and shred the chicken, and prepare the sauce separately. Assemble everything just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store any leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of milk or cream to maintain the creamy consistency.
- Can I make it gluten-free?
- Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. Ensure that all other ingredients, including sauces and seasonings, are also gluten-free.
- What can I serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
- A simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables make great accompaniments to Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. The dish is versatile, so feel free to pair it with your favorite sides.
- How can I add extra flavor?
- You can enhance the flavor by adding herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme to the dish. Additionally, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a touch of heat for those who enjoy a bit of spice. Experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
Here are some tips to help you make the best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:
- Use Fresh Ingredients:
- Whenever possible, use fresh garlic, Parmesan cheese, and herbs. Fresh ingredients contribute to a more vibrant and authentic flavor.
- Freshly Grated Parmesan:
- Grate Parmesan cheese just before using it. Freshly grated Parmesan tends to have a more intense flavor and a smoother texture.
- Season Chicken Well:
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices before cooking. This step adds depth of flavor to the overall dish.
- Sauté Garlic Properly:
- Be cautious not to burn the garlic while sautéing. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to the dish. Cook it just until it becomes fragrant, usually for about 30 seconds to a minute.
- Cook Chicken to Perfection:
- Cook the chicken until it’s fully cooked and golden brown. This ensures a delicious, tender texture and adds a nice sear to the chicken.
- Choose the Right Pasta:
- Select a pasta shape that holds the sauce well. Fettuccine, linguine, or other flat noodles work best, but you can choose your favorite type.
- Reserve Pasta Water:
- Before draining the cooked pasta, reserve a cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water can be used to adjust the consistency of the sauce if needed.
- Toss Pasta in the Sauce:
- Toss the cooked pasta directly into the sauce instead of serving them separately. This ensures that every strand of pasta is coated evenly with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
- Adjust Consistency with Pasta Water:
- If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency. Add a small amount at a time until you achieve the desired thickness.
- Add Fresh Herbs:
- Just before serving, sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or basil over the dish. This adds a burst of freshness and color.
- Experiment with Seasonings:
- Don’t hesitate to experiment with additional seasonings or spices. Red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, or a pinch of nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile.
- Serve Immediately:
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is best served immediately to enjoy the creamy texture and optimal flavors. If you need to reheat leftovers, add a bit of milk or cream to restore the creamy consistency.
- Garnish with Extra Parmesan:
- Before serving, garnish the dish with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the cheesy goodness of the dish.
- Pair with Complementary Sides:
- Consider serving the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with complementary sides like a crisp salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a well-balanced meal.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious and satisfying Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta dish
