Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Shells 🍗🧀

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Slow Cooker

Lightly spray the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
Scatter uncooked pasta shells evenly on the bottom.
Lay raw chicken breasts on top of the shells.

2. Make the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan, roasted garlic, Italian herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. A few lumps from Parmesan are fine.

3. Pour & Cook

Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken and shells, ensuring pasta is mostly covered.
Dot with butter pieces.
Cover and cook:
- LOW: 3½–4½ hours
- HIGH: 2–2½ hours
Avoid lifting the lid during the first couple of hours.

4. Shred the Chicken

Transfer chicken to a cutting board and shred with two forks.
Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
Stir to coat shells and chicken evenly in the creamy sauce.
Adjust seasoning as needed; add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce is too thick.

5. Serve

Let sit on WARM for 5–10 minutes to thicken slightly.
Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Lightly steamed broccoli or roasted green beans
Fresh salad with a simple vinaigrette
Warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette to scoop up extra sauce
A crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon balances richness

Variations & Tips

Swap Italian herb blend for basil + oregano
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat
Stir in baby spinach or frozen peas in the last 10 minutes
Use half heavy cream and half whole milk for a lighter version
Try part Parmesan, part mozzarella or Asiago for flavor variety
Dark meat like boneless skinless thighs works great for extra tenderness
Increase roasted garlic for more intensity or halve it for a milder flavor

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or cream.
Meal prep: This reheats beautifully, making it perfect for busy workweek dinners.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use other pasta shapes?
A: Yes! Penne or rigatoni works fine, just adjust cooking time slightly.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free pasta shells.

Q: Can I add vegetables?
A: Yes! Spinach, peas, or bell peppers stir in nicely near the end of cooking.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Shells recipe is cozy, creamy, and effortlessly delicious. It’s the ultimate weeknight comfort food that’s customizable, hearty, and perfect for leftovers.

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