Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Shells

If you’re looking for a comforting and easy dinner that practically makes itself, look no further than this Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Shells recipe. The combination of tender chicken, creamy garlic sauce, and cheesy goodness is irresistible, making it the perfect meal for busy weeknights or special gatherings. It’s rich, flavorful, and oh-so-easy to prepare.

The beauty of this recipe lies in the slow cooker. You can set it, forget it, and come back to a deliciously creamy and satisfying dish. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy a home-cooked meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)

• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 cups cooked pasta shells (about 8 oz dry)

• 2 tbsp butter

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Optional substitutions:

• Use chicken thighs for a juicier texture.

• Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version.

Instructions

1. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker.

2. In a small bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, cream cheese, heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Stir until smooth.

3. Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.

4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

5. Once the chicken is cooked, shred it with two forks inside the slow cooker.

6. In the meantime, cook the pasta shells according to package instructions and set aside.

7. Add the cooked pasta shells to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the creamy sauce.

8. Mince the garlic and sauté it in a small pan with a little butter until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).

9. Add the garlic to the slow cooker, and stir everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

10. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve!

Why This Recipe Works

• Creamy, rich sauce: The combination of cream cheese, heavy cream, and Parmesan creates a velvety sauce that coats the chicken and pasta beautifully.

• Effortless slow cooking: The slow cooker does all the work, making this a hands-off, stress-free dinner option.

• Perfectly tender chicken: Cooking the chicken in the slow cooker ensures it’s tender and shreddable, blending perfectly with the creamy sauce.

• Cheesy goodness: The Parmesan adds a burst of flavor that balances perfectly with the creamy sauce and garlic.

Tips for Best Results

• Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooking the chicken can make it dry, so be sure to monitor the cooking time and shred the chicken once it’s tender.

• Stir occasionally: While you don’t need to open the slow cooker often, giving it a quick stir halfway through the cooking time helps the ingredients blend well.

• Add extra cheese: For even more cheesy richness, feel free to add extra Parmesan or mozzarella cheese when serving.

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Using low-fat cream cheese or heavy cream can affect the richness of the sauce. Stick to full-fat options for the creamiest result.

• Skipping the garlic sauté step can result in a less flavorful dish, as garlic brings a punch of taste to the sauce.

Variations & Substitutions

• Add veggies: Stir in some spinach, mushrooms, or peas for a veggie-packed version.

• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy version.

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta shells to make the dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

• Dairy-free: Swap cream cheese, heavy cream, and Parmesan with non-dairy alternatives for a dairy-free option.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep it the night before and store it in the fridge before cooking. Or, cook it ahead and store the leftovers for an easy lunch or dinner.

Can I use a different pasta?
Absolutely! While pasta shells work great for this recipe, you can substitute with any pasta shape, like penne or rotini.

Why does my sauce look too thin?
If the sauce is too thin, you can let the slow cooker cook for a bit longer with the lid off to thicken the sauce. Alternatively, stir in a bit more Parmesan to help thicken it.

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This Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Shells recipe is everything you could want in a weeknight meal—easy, creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor. It’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.