Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne

Name: Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-491599H33M16S
Total time: PT-491599H33M16S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups penne pasta; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Author: Amelia Sinclair

Published: January 29, 2026

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Introduction to Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne

Do you find yourself scrambling for dinner ideas in the middle of a hectic week? If you’re nodding along, let me introduce you to my delightful Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne. This creamy, cheesy concoction is not just a meal; it’s a lifesaver! It wraps tender chicken and al dente penne in a warm embrace of comforting flavors that even the pickiest eaters will adore. Plus, it lets you savor precious family time or catch up on much-needed relaxation while dinner cooks itself. It’s the culinary hug that fits perfectly into your busy life!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne

This Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne is a dream come true for those busy evenings. The ease of preparation means you can toss everything into the pot and set it to go while you tackle other tasks. The dreamy combination of gooey cheese and juicy chicken makes it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s totally adaptable! You can sneak in veggies, making it a wholesome meal that offers comfort with every bite!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne

As you gather your ingredients for the Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne, know that each one plays a vital role in bringing this dish to life. Here’s what you’ll need:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and juicy, they soak up the flavors beautifully.
Penne pasta: This shape holds onto the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is delightful.
Cream of chicken soup: Adds a rich, creamy base that’s essential for that comforting feel.

Chicken broth: Enhances the flavor depth, making the dish savory and heartwarming.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and tangy, it creates that melty goodness everyone loves.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Brings a gooey texture that pulls everything together.

Diced tomatoes: These add a burst of color and freshness, balancing the richness.
Italian seasoning: A dash of this brings a hint of herbaceousness, elevating the flavors.
Garlic powder: For that extra kick of flavor; it’s a staple in my kitchen!

Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to dial in the taste just right.
Fresh parsley: Not only does it garnish beautifully, but it adds a pop of flavor.

Don’t forget, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can toss in some extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers for a nutritious boost. For exact measurements, head to the bottom of the article where you can find everything you need for easy printing!

How to Make Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Let’s kick things off by seasoning our chicken. Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning generously over the chicken. Take a moment to massage those spices in; it’s like giving your chicken a mini spa day! This step ensures every bite is infused with flavor and sets the stage for a mouthwatering dish.

Step 2: Combine Soup and Broth

In a bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth until they’re fully blended. This mixture is the heart of your Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne, creating that creamy goodness we all crave. Pour this luscious concoction over the seasoned chicken. This step is key, as it will keep the chicken moist and create a flavorful sauce as everything cooks down. Simple, right?

Step 3: Layer Ingredients

Now comes the fun part—layering your ingredients! Grab your diced tomatoes and generous portions of penne pasta. Sprinkle the tomatoes on top of the chicken and soup mixture. Then, carefully add the penne pasta, ensuring it’s nestled nicely among the other ingredients. Stir gently to combine. It’s crucial that the pasta is submerged in that creamy goodness; this magic is what transforms it into a cheesy delight. Don’t worry; it’s all going to meld wonderfully as it cooks!

Step 4: Slow Cook

Next, cover your slow cooker and set it to low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Keep that lid on tight! Peeking isn’t advisable, as it lets the precious steam escape. During cooking, the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that will have your family asking for seconds.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Once the cooking time is up, it’s time to bring that chicken back into the spotlight. Remove the chicken breasts and use two forks to shred them into bite-sized pieces. This is where the magic happens! Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, allowing it to mix with all the creamy goodness below. It’s instrumented harmony, my friends!

Step 6: Add Cheese

Finally, let’s make this dish the star it was born to be: add your shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese into the pot. Stir it all together until those cheeses melt into that creamy sauce, creating an indulgent masterpiece! Taste and adjust your seasonings with more salt and pepper as needed. You can feel the joy bubbling up from the pot, ready to be served to your eager eaters!

Tips for Success

Always layer the ingredients as directed to ensure even cooking.
For a rich flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth!
Don’t hesitate to add extra veggies; they can enhance both nutrition and taste.
Keep the lid on during cooking to trap moisture and flavors.

Garnish with fresh parsley right before serving for a lovely presentation!

Equipment Needed

Slow cooker: A must-have; alternatively, you can use a programmable pressure cooker.
Cutting board: Essential for prepping your ingredients; any sturdy surface will do.

Mixing bowl: Great for combining the soup and broth; even a large measuring cup works!
Two forks: Perfect for shredding chicken; you can use your hands if you prefer!

Variations

Veggie Delight: Add in fresh spinach or bell peppers for a pop of color and nutrition.

Switch the Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for deep flavors.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free penne pasta and ensure your soup and broth are gluten-free.
Creamy Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or basil for a fragrant twist on flavor.

Protein Swap: Replace chicken with turkey or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Serve alongside garlic bread to soak up that delicious creamy sauce.

A glass of chilled white wine complements the cheesy richness beautifully.
Garnish the dish with additional fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

FAQs about Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne

Have questions about the Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne? You’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries that fellow home cooks often have:

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to extend the cooking time a bit. The chicken will become tender and flavorful when cooked slowly from frozen. Just remember to add an extra 30 minutes to your cook time.

How can I make this dish healthier?
To create a lighter version, try using reduced-fat cheese or swapping in whole wheat penne pasta. You can also add more veggies for added nutrition!

What do I serve with Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne?
This cheesy delight pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or some roasted veggies. Garlic bread is also a fantastic companion for soaking up that creamy sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep all the ingredients the night before, store them in the fridge, and then throw them in your slow cooker in the morning. Dinner will be waiting for you when you get home!

How do I store leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove for a quick and delicious lunch!

Final Thoughts

Cooking should be a joyful experience, and my Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne embodies that sentiment! This dish is not just about satisfying hunger; it creates moments around the dinner table, inviting family laughter and sharing stories. It’s incredibly easy, meaning you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your loved ones. Trust me, every mouthful of tender chicken and gooey cheese is a reminder that home-cooked meals can be both delightful and simple. I can’t wait for you to try this treasure and feel the warmth it brings to your home!