Crockpot Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – You know those recipes that happen completely by accident but end up becoming a family favorite? That’s exactly how this Crockpot Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta came to life in my kitchen.
Picture this: it was one of those chaotic weekdays when I was juggling work calls, school pickups, and trying to figure out dinner without having to hit the drive-thru. I spotted a bottle of Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce in the pantry—one of those random purchases I swore I’d find a use for—and decided to wing it (pun intended).
I tossed it in the crockpot with chicken, a few pantry staples, and hoped for the best. Three hours later, the house smelled like a fancy Italian restaurant, and when I took the first bite? Wow. It was creamy, garlicky, cheesy—everything comfort food should be. Even my picky eater asked for seconds!
Now, every time I make this dish, it takes me back to that slightly frantic but oddly magical evening. It’s proof that sometimes the simplest things can turn into something special.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe?
- Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor: This is one of those recipes where the crockpot does all the heavy lifting. You throw everything in, and a few hours later, dinner is served.
- Restaurant-Quality Taste: Thanks to the Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce, this dish tastes like something you’d get at your favorite restaurant.
- Kid-Approved: The creamy, cheesy goodness is a hit with kids and adults alike. No one will even notice if you sneak in some veggies.
- Flexible and Customizable: Whether you want to spice it up, make it gluten-free, or swap out the protein, this recipe adapts beautifully.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: It reheats like a dream, making it great for leftovers or next-day lunches.
Ingredient Notes:
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a key role, and here’s why they’re worth the hype:
- Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce: This sauce is a game-changer. It’s packed with rich garlic and parmesan flavors, so you don’t need to add much else.
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken cooks down to tender, shred-worthy perfection. If you prefer thighs, go for it—they’re just as delicious.
- Cream Cheese: The secret to that velvety sauce. It melts into the dish and gives it an indulgent texture.
- Milk: Thins out the sauce just enough to make it the perfect consistency for coating the pasta.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty kick that ties everything together.
- Pasta: Use your favorite shape—penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta all work great.
Pro Tip: If you want an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle in some Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
How To Make Crockpot Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Making this dish is so easy, you’ll wonder why you haven’t tried it sooner.
- Set Up the Base:
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This ensures they cook evenly and soak up all the delicious flavors. - Add the Magic Ingredients:
Pour the entire bottle of Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce over the chicken. Then, fill the empty bottle with milk, shake it to get every last bit of sauce, and pour it into the crockpot. Add the cream cheese (cut into blocks for easier melting) and sprinkle in the parmesan. Give it a quick stir to combine. - Let It Cook:
Cover and set your crockpot to low for 3–4 hours (or high for 2–3 hours). During this time, the chicken absorbs all the garlicky, cheesy goodness, and the sauce thickens beautifully. - Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked through, grab two forks and shred it right in the crockpot. This step helps distribute the sauce evenly. - Cook the Pasta:
While the chicken is being shredded, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain it and add it to the crockpot. Stir until every noodle is coated in that creamy sauce. - Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the pasta while it’s still warm. For a little extra flair, sprinkle some fresh parsley or more parmesan on top.
Storage Options:
One of the best things about this recipe is how well it keeps.
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy.
- Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as usual.
Variations and Substitutions:
Want to mix it up? Here are some ideas:
Want To Save This Recipe?
- Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and nutrients.
- Swap the Protein: Try shrimp, turkey, or even tofu if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish accessible for everyone.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Top with mozzarella and broil for a golden, bubbly finish.
What to Serve with Crockpot Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
This dish is rich and indulgent, so pairing it with lighter sides works wonderfully:
- Garlic Bread: Because carbs deserve carbs.
- Crisp Salad: A fresh Caesar or mixed greens salad balances the richness.
- Roasted Veggies: Asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts make great sides.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the garlic parmesan flavors perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes! Just shred the chicken and add it during the last hour of cooking so it doesn’t overcook.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can try using dairy-free cream cheese and milk substitutes, but the flavor might be slightly different.
How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook the pasta separately and mix it in just before serving. This keeps it al dente and avoids overcooking.
This Crockpot Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is everything you want in a comfort food: rich, creamy, and ridiculously easy to make. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, it’s a dish that never disappoints.
So, what do you think? Ready to give it a try? I’d love to hear how it turns out—drop a comment and let me know!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Crockpot Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- 1 cup milk
- 8 oz cream cheese cut into blocks
- 4 oz Parmesan cheese grated
- 12 oz pasta gluten-free if preferred
Instructions
Prepare the Crockpot:
- Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of a crockpot, ensuring they are evenly spaced for uniform cooking.
Add Ingredients:
- Pour the entire bottle of Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce over the chicken. Fill the empty sauce bottle with milk, shake to mix any remaining sauce, and pour it into the crockpot. Add the cream cheese and Parmesan cheese. Stir lightly to combine.
Cook the Chicken:
- Set the crockpot to low for 3–4 hours or high for 2–3 hours. During this time, the chicken will cook through and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
Shred the Chicken:
- Once the chicken is tender and fully cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to mix it with the sauce.
Cook the Pasta:
- While the chicken finishes, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the crockpot and stir until all the noodles are evenly coated in the garlic parmesan sauce.
Serve:
- Plate the pasta immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese or freshly chopped parsley, if desired.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
