Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne

Are you looking for a quick, satisfying meal that requires minimal effort? Look no further! Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne is the perfect dish for busy nights when you want something comforting and delicious with little fuss. This dish combines tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta in a way that will leave you coming back for more. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a cozy dinner, this recipe is a winner.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making this cheesy chicken penne masterpiece, from the ingredients to the cooking process, and offer some tips and variations to make it your own.

Why Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne Is the Perfect Recipe

This Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne is more than just a meal – it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With minimal prep time, you can toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work. In a few hours, you’ll have a creamy, cheesy, flavorful pasta dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a hassle-free dinner or someone who wants to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe ticks all the boxes. The blend of gooey cheese, tender chicken, and soft penne pasta makes it a dish that the whole family will devour.

Essential Equipment and Ingredients for Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne

Before you start cooking, it’s important to gather all the necessary equipment and ingredients. Don’t worry—most of these items are common pantry staples, and the equipment needed is minimal.

Kitchen Equipment:

• Slow Cooker (Crockpot) – A 6-quart slow cooker is ideal for this recipe.
• Large Spoon or Tongs – For stirring and serving.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – To ensure accuracy with the ingredients.
• Knife and Cutting Board – For chopping the chicken and veggies if desired.

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Ingredients:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – This is the primary protein. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor.
• Penne Pasta – A hearty pasta shape that holds up well in the slow cooker.
• Cream Cheese – For a creamy, tangy base.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – The star of the dish, bringing that unmistakable gooey, cheesy goodness.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
• Chicken Broth – The base liquid for the sauce.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – Essential for flavor.
• Salt & Pepper – To taste.
• Italian Seasoning – To bring in some herbal notes.

How to Make Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne

If you’re craving a hearty, creamy, and cheesy pasta dish, then Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne is exactly what you need. With tender chicken, a luscious cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta, this recipe is a dream come true for busy nights. The best part? It’s made effortlessly in your slow cooker, saving you time in the kitchen while still delivering big flavor.

Let’s dive into the recipe and show you how to create this cheesy masterpiece!

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. You don’t need to pre-cook the chicken—just add it in raw, as it will cook perfectly in the slow cooker.

Step 2: Add the Seasonings and Broth

Pour the chicken broth over the chicken breasts. Then, sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on top. Stir everything gently to ensure the chicken is coated in the seasonings.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Cover your slow cooker and set it to low for about 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and easily shred when you test it with a fork.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. The chicken should fall apart easily. After shredding, return the chicken to the slow cooker.

Step 5: Add the Cream Cheese and Cheddar

Cut the cream cheese into cubes and add it to the slow cooker. Add the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses as well. Stir everything together until the cream cheese has melted, and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.

Step 6: Add the Pasta

Add the uncooked penne pasta to the slow cooker, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid. Stir to mix it in well. Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes or until the pasta is tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally to make sure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the pasta is cooked, give everything one last stir. Your Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne is now ready to serve! Spoon it onto plates, and enjoy the cheesy, creamy goodness.

Tips for the Perfect Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne

• Use Frozen Chicken: If you’re in a rush, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by an hour if cooking on low, or about 30 minutes if cooking on high.
• Make it Even Creamier: For an extra rich and creamy texture, stir in a little heavy cream or sour cream after adding the cheese.
• Add Veggies: For a boost of nutrition, try adding frozen peas, spinach, or bell peppers in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Cheese Variations: Swap out cheddar for mozzarella or Gruyère for a different cheesy flavor profile. Adding a bit of goat cheese can add a tangy touch!

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which might be unlikely with this delicious dish!), here’s how to store them:

• In the Refrigerator: Keep the leftover Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• In the Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Food Pairing Suggestions

This dish is hearty and rich, so a light green salad is the perfect side to balance out the creaminess. You can also serve it with some crispy garlic bread to soak up all that cheesy sauce.

For drinks, try pairing it with a white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. These wines’ bright acidity complement the richness of the cheese sauce beautifully. If you’re not into wine, a cold glass of iced tea or sparkling water is a refreshing choice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance up to the point of adding the pasta. Simply refrigerate the cooked chicken and sauce mixture. When you’re ready to serve, add the pasta and cook in the slow cooker.

2. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, frozen chicken can be used, but it will need a longer cook time. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

3. What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you don’t have cream cheese, substitute it with sour cream or heavy cream for a similar creamy texture.

4. How can I thicken the sauce?
If the sauce is too thin, you can stir in a little cornstarch mixed with cold water, or add more cheese to thicken it up.

5. Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes, this recipe can be made in an Instant Pot. Cook the chicken on high pressure for 15 minutes and then add the pasta for an additional 5-7 minutes.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne is a deliciously creamy and comforting meal that’s perfect for busy nights. With minimal prep and a little patience, you’ll have a dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress.

Don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones, and make sure to subscribe to the blog for more easy-to-make recipes!

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