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

 


How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Shells

Step 1: Prep the Slow Cooker

Lightly spray the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Add the Pasta

Scatter the uncooked pasta shells evenly across the bottom.

Step 3: Add the Chicken

Lay the raw chicken breasts over the shells, nestling them slightly.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Mixture

In a bowl, whisk together:

  • Chicken broth

  • Heavy cream

  • Parmesan

  • Roasted garlic

  • Herbs

  • Garlic powder

  • Onion powder

  • Salt and pepper

It may look slightly lumpy from the cheese — that’s perfectly fine!

Step 5: Pour & Dot with Butter

Pour the creamy garlic-Parmesan mixture evenly over the chicken and shells. Try to cover the pasta as much as possible. Dot the top with butter pieces.

Step 6: Cook

  • LOW for 3 ½ to 4 ½ hours

  • HIGH for 2 to 2 ½ hours

Cook until the chicken reaches 165°F and the pasta is tender. Avoid lifting the lid early — the steam helps cook the pasta evenly.

Step 7: Shred & Stir

Remove the chicken, shred with two forks, then return it to the slow cooker. Stir everything together until coated in creamy goodness.

If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of warm broth or cream.

Let it sit on WARM for 5–10 minutes to thicken slightly.

Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and parsley before serving.

What to Serve With It

Because this dish is rich and creamy, I love pairing it with something fresh and green:

  • Steamed broccoli

  • Roasted green beans

  • A simple lemony side salad

  • Warm garlic bread or crusty baguette

A crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon balances everything beautifully.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Shells

  • Don’t overcook — check at the earlier end of the time range

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting

  • Avoid lifting the lid too early

  • If reheating, always add a splash of broth or cream

Storage Instructions

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days

  • Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with added liquid

  • Not ideal for freezing (cream sauces can separate)

General Information

  • Servings: 6

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 2–4 hours (depending on setting)

  • Cuisine Style: American comfort food

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

This recipe works best with raw chicken so it cooks in the sauce and absorbs flavor.

Will the pasta really cook in the slow cooker?

Yes! As long as the shells are mostly submerged and you don’t lift the lid too early.

Can I make this ahead?

Absolutely. It reheats beautifully for meal prep lunches.

Can I double the recipe?

You can, but make sure your slow cooker is large enough and increase cook time slightly.

Conclusion

This is one of those dinners that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. One creamy mixture. Raw chicken. Dry shells. A few hours later? Cozy, garlic-Parmesan magic.

It’s simple. It’s flexible. It’s family-friendly. And it truly hits different every single time.

If you love comfort-style slow cooker meals, you might also enjoy:

  • Peach BBQ Chicken

  • Creamy Peach Chicken Skillet

  • Southern Peach Cobbler

Trust me — peaches and comfort food are a match made in heaven.

Let’s Make It Interactive 💛

If you try these creamy garlic Parmesan chicken shells:

  • Leave a review below

  • Share your photos on Pinterest

  • Tell me what herb combo you used!

I absolutely love seeing your creations — it makes my day every time.

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

  • Calories: 620

  • Protein: 38g

  • Carbohydrates: 45g

  • Fat: 34g

  • Saturated Fat: 18g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Sodium: 620mg

(Nutrition will vary based on specific ingredients used.)