Step 1: Layer the Aromatics and Chicken
In your slow cooker, combine the chicken broth, white wine (if using), minced garlic, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Place the raw chicken breasts or thighs into the liquid. Dot the top of the chicken with the pieces of butter.

Step 2: The Long, Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it is fall-apart tender and easily shreds with a fork. The low and slow method on LOW is highly recommended for the most tender, shreddable chicken.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Using two forks, carefully shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. It should pull apart with minimal effort.

Step 4: Enrich with Cream and Cheese
Add the cubed, softened cream cheese and the grated Parmesan to the slow cooker. Stir until the cream cheese is mostly melted and incorporated into the liquid. This will take a few minutes of stirring. Then, stir in the heavy cream until the sauce is uniform. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. The sauce will be thin at this point.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Add the uncooked, dry pasta to the slow cooker, stirring to ensure all pieces are submerged in the sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add up to ½ cup more broth or water. Cover and cook on HIGH for an additional 25-35 minutes. Start checking at 25 minutes—the pasta should be al dente, tender but with a slight bite. It will continue to cook in the residual heat.

Step 6: Final Touches and Resting
Once the pasta is cooked, turn the slow cooker off. If using, stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts from the residual heat. Let the dish sit, covered, for 5-10 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly as the pasta absorbs more liquid and the flavors settle.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Give the pasta a final stir. The sauce should now be creamy and cling to the pasta beautifully. Serve immediately in bowls, garnished generously with fresh parsley or basil, extra Parmesan, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 8: The Perfect Accompaniment
Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread on the side for dipping into the luxurious creamy garlic sauce. A simple green salad makes a perfect fresh contrast to the rich pasta