Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne (Creamy, Family-Favorite Pasta)

Introduction

Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne is the kind of comforting, crowd-pleasing pasta dinner that makes busy days easier and family dinners happier. Tender chicken slowly cooks in a creamy, savory sauce, then penne pasta and plenty of cheese are added to create a rich, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

What makes this recipe especially appealing is how effortless it is. The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing the chicken to become juicy and flavorful while the sauce develops a deep, creamy richness. When the pasta and cheese are added near the end, everything comes together into a perfectly cooked, cheesy pasta dish without the need for multiple pots or constant attention.

This dish is ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. It’s filling, kid-friendly, and endlessly customizable—add vegetables, switch up the cheese, or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. Best of all, it reheats beautifully, making leftovers just as good the next day.

If you’re looking for a no-fuss slow cooker pasta recipe that delivers big comfort and bold cheesy flavor, Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne is a must-try.

Ingredients

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed

12 oz penne pasta

2 cups chicken broth

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon salt

Optional garnish: chopped parsley or grated parmesan

Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Lightly spray the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Seasoning

Place the cubed chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and heavy cream until smooth. Pour the mixture evenly over the chicken and stir gently.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 5: Add Pasta and Cheese

Add uncooked penne pasta to the slow cooker, stirring to submerge it in the sauce. Cover and cook on HIGH for 25–30 minutes, stirring once halfway, until pasta is tender. Stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella until melted and creamy.

Variations

Broccoli Cheesy Chicken Penne: Add steamed broccoli during the last 15 minutes.

Spicy Cheesy Pasta: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne.

Garlic Parmesan Version: Use parmesan and mozzarella instead of cheddar.

Bacon Chicken Penne: Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon.

Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium soup and broth.

Cooking Notes

Stir gently after adding pasta to prevent sticking.

Sauce thickens as it cools—rest briefly before serving.

Chicken thighs provide extra richness, but breasts work well.

Avoid overcooking pasta to prevent mushy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. It’s hearty enough to stand alone but pairs well with lighter sides.

Tips

Cut chicken into even pieces for uniform cooking.

Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting.

Add a splash of broth if sauce thickens too much.

Store leftovers in an airtight container.

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cooking Time

5 hours

Total Time

5 hours 15 minutes

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

Calories: 560

Protein: 36g

Sodium: 720mg

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta?
Yes, rotini or ziti work well—adjust cooking time slightly.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well with a splash of milk or broth.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

Why add pasta at the end?
To keep it from overcooking and turning mushy.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne is the perfect blend of ease and comfort. Creamy sauce, tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and plenty of melted cheese come together in one slow cooker for a meal that’s satisfying, family-friendly, and incredibly easy to make. Whether for busy weeknights or cozy dinners, this recipe delivers reliable comfort every time. 🧀🍝🍗

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