Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Shells – Pour One Mixture Over Raw Chicken and Let Dinner Make Itself

 



Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Shells – Pour One Mixture Over Raw Chicken and Let Dinner Make Itself

Introduction

First, let me just say how grateful I am that you’re here. Truly. The fact that you trust me with your weeknight dinners, your Sunday comfort meals, and those “I have zero energy but still need something amazing” days means everything. 💛

And today? I promised you versatile, and here’s proof.

This Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Shells recipe is one of those magical dump-and-go dinners that feels almost too easy for how incredibly cozy and satisfying it turns out. You whisk together one creamy garlic-Parmesan mixture, pour it over raw chicken breasts and dry pasta shells, turn on the slow cooker, and walk away.

A few hours later? Ultra-creamy shells, tender shredded chicken, and a roasted garlic aroma that fills your whole kitchen. The smell when this is cooking is honestly unbelievable.

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Overview of the Recipe

This recipe is a true one-mixture wonder. Everything cooks together in the slow cooker — raw chicken, dry pasta shells, and a rich garlic-Parmesan cream sauce that transforms into pure comfort food magic.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • It’s a true dump-and-go dinner

  • Minimal prep, maximum flavor

  • Creamy, cozy, and family-friendly

  • Perfect for busy workdays or lazy Sundays

  • Easily customizable with herbs and add-ins

What It Tastes Like

Think: rich Alfredo vibes, but even cozier.

The roasted garlic gives it depth and warmth, the Parmesan adds nutty saltiness, and the cream makes every shell silky and luscious. The chicken becomes fork-tender and soaks up all that flavor. It’s hearty without being overwhelming — especially when paired with something green.

Benefits of This Recipe

  • One appliance = fewer dishes

  • Feeds a crowd (serves 6!)

  • Great for meal prep

  • Customizable for different flavor moods

  • Reheats beautifully

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 12 ounces medium pasta shells (uncooked, about 3 cups dry)

  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream

  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)

  • ¼ cup roasted garlic cloves or paste (about 1 small head, mashed)

  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herb blend

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon onion powder

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)

  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Necessary Tools

  • 6-quart slow cooker

  • Medium mixing bowl or large measuring cup

  • Whisk

  • Cutting board

  • Two forks (for shredding chicken)

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

This is where it gets fun — because this recipe hits a little different every single time depending on what you add.

Flavor Swaps

  • Swap Italian herbs for basil + oregano

  • Add red pepper flakes for gentle heat

  • Replace part of the Parmesan with mozzarella or Asiago

Lighter Option

  • Use half heavy cream and half whole milk (less rich but still creamy)

Protein Swap

  • Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully and stay extra tender

Veggie Boost

  • Stir in baby spinach during the last 10 minutes

  • Add frozen peas for color and sweetness

How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Shells

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