Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne is a comforting and indulgent dish that wraps you in warmth and flavor. As the name suggests, this delightful recipe combines tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and creamy cheese, all embraced by al dente penne pasta. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the family together, filling your home with enticing aromas that will have everyone eagerly waiting at the dinner table. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you crave something delicious without all the fuss. In this article, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to help you achieve cheesy, creamy perfection in your slow cooker.

Ingredients
For making Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1.5 lb (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These juicy chicken breasts will be the hero of our dish, soaking up all the delicious flavors as they cook.
3 cups (720 ml) chicken broth: Rich and aromatic, chicken broth adds depth and moisture that elevates the entire meal.
1 jar (24 oz / 680 g) marinara sauce: With its zesty and savory profile, marinara sauce is the heart and soul of Italian-inspired dishes.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that brings that beloved Italian essence.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: This adds a wonderful, warm aroma that enhances the dish without overpowering it.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder: A mild sweetness to balance out the savory flavors.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning, enhancing every taste component to perfection.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick of heat to the complex flavors.
12 oz (340 g) uncooked penne pasta: This pasta shape perfectly captures the delicious sauce in every bite.
8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, cubed: This creamy element enriches the dish, making it decadent and irresistible.
1.5 cups (170 g) shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooey, melting cheese takes this dish to a whole new level of comfort.
1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty flavor that enhances the creaminess.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: A pop of color and freshness to brighten the dish.

Cooking Time & Tips for Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne
Cooking with a slow cooker allows the flavors of your ingredients to meld beautifully over time, creating a rich tapestry of tastes. The beauty of Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne lies in its simplicity: toss the ingredients in, set it, and let the slow cooker do the hard work. This method is perfect for busy individuals who want a rewarding meal with minimal effort.

If you’re short on time, you can prepare it quickly by using the high setting, cooking for about 2-3 hours. However, for best results, the low setting for 4-5 hours allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and the flavors to deepen. Always make sure to keep an eye on the liquid levels and stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking.

Step-by-Step Directions

Place the chicken in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. Pour in the marinara sauce, followed by the chicken broth, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. At this point, you do not need to stir much; just ensure that the chicken is mostly submerged in the flavorful mix.

Next, cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours or on HIGH for about 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken shreds easily with a fork.

Once your chicken is tender, carefully remove the breasts from the pot. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then return it to the slow cooker. Don’t worry if the broth looks a bit thin—that’s perfectly normal at this stage.

Now for the creamy goodness! Drop in the cubed cream cheese and stir vigorously, allowing it to melt completely into the tomato broth. This should take about one or two minutes.

Then, it’s time to add the uncooked penne pasta. Push it down gently to submerge it in the liquid. If the surface appears dry, feel free to add 1/2 cup of hot water or extra broth, ensuring that the pasta cooks evenly. Cover the slow cooker and let it cook on HIGH for 30 to 40 minutes. Stir once halfway through to promote even cooking, checking that the pasta achieves a tender yet al dente texture.

Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the surface. Cover once more for about 5 minutes, without lifting the lid, to allow the cheeses to melt into a gooey, delicious blanket over the pasta. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and brightness. Serve straight from the pot and enjoy this wonderfully cheesy dish with your loved ones!

Serving Suggestions & Occasions
Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne is versatile enough to serve on various occasions. It’s perfect for family gatherings, casual weeknight dinners, or cozy meals on chilly evenings. Pair it with a crisp green salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Don’t forget a glass of flavored sparkling water or a refreshing mint tea to wash it down!

Common Mistakes for Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne
To ensure your Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne turns out perfectly every time, avoid the following common mistakes:

Not Shredding the Chicken: Leaving the chicken whole can result in a less flavorful dish since it won’t absorb the surrounding sauce and seasonings.
Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Be mindful not to overfill your slow cooker to allow for proper heat circulation.
Skipping the Stirrings: Stirring after adding pasta is essential. It helps ensure even cooking and prevents the pasta from clumping together.
Ignoring the Liquid Levels: Keep an eye on broth levels and add more if needed. A dry dish isn’t what you want.

Healthier Alternatives & Variations
If you’re looking to lighten up the recipe, consider these alternatives:

Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta: A healthier pasta option can add fiber and nutrients while catering to dietary restrictions.
Swap Chicken Breasts for Thighs: Thighs are naturally more flavorful and can give you a more succulent dish.
Add More Vegetables: Incorporate spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavors—plus, it enhances the dish’s vibrancy!
Substitute Cream Cheese with Greek Yogurt: For a lighter option, Greek yogurt can replace cream cheese while still providing creaminess.

FAQs

Can I make Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne without marinara sauce?
Yes, you can use a white sauce or Alfredo sauce for a different flavor profile.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked dish for later enjoyment. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing.
Is it necessary to shred the chicken?
To fully integrate the flavors, shredding the chicken is recommended.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different melting cheeses like fontina or gouda.
How can I make this dish spicy?
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for heat.

Conclusion
There’s something irresistibly comforting about Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne, making it a perfect choice for your next family dinner. Its combination of rich flavors, creamy textures, and mouthwatering aroma is something you don’t want to miss. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and let this delightful dish bring a warm, cheesy cheer to your table today!

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Penne served in a bowl

Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne

A comforting dish combining tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and creamy cheese, wrapped in al dente penne pasta, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 4

Total Time 4 10

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 6 servings

Calories 580 kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1.5 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts These juicy chicken breasts soak up all the delicious flavors.
3 cups chicken broth Adds depth and moisture.
1 jar marinara sauce (24 oz / 680 g) The heart and soul of Italian-inspired dishes.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Brings the beloved Italian essence.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Enhances the dish without overpowering it.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder Balances out the savory flavors.
1/2 teaspoon salt Essential for seasoning.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper Adds a gentle kick of heat.
12 oz uncooked penne pasta Captures the sauce in every bite.
8 oz cream cheese, cubed Makes the dish decadent and irresistible.
1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Adds gooey, melting comfort.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Enhances the creaminess.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley Adds a pop of color and freshness.

Instructions

Preparation

Place the chicken in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.
Pour in the marinara sauce, followed by the chicken broth, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Ensure that the chicken is mostly submerged in the flavorful mix.

Cooking

Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours or on HIGH for about 2 to 3 hours.
Once the chicken is tender, remove the breasts from the pot and shred into bite-sized pieces.
Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
Drop in the cubed cream cheese and stir vigorously until melted.
Add the uncooked penne pasta, submerging it in the liquid, adding more broth if necessary.
Cover and cook on HIGH for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the surface and cover for an additional 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
Garnish with parsley before serving.