Name: Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne: 5 Comforting Secrets
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491832H56M28S
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 450 grams); 2 cups penne pasta (about 200 grams); 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (about 300 grams); 1 cup chicken broth (about 240 ml); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (about 113 grams); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (about 113 grams); 1 cup diced tomatoes (about 240 grams); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped

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Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken has become my go-to comfort food, especially on busy weeknights. This delicious recipe for Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and hearty pasta for a meal that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can create a dish that the whole family will love. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken

This Cheesy Chicken in Slow Cooker recipe is a lifesaver for anyone seeking a quick and comforting meal. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore it:

Minimal prep time—just 10 minutes!
Perfect for busy weeknights.
Rich and creamy flavors that everyone loves.
Utilizes a slow cooker for easy cooking.
Versatile ingredients that you can customize.
Great for meal prep—freeze leftovers easily.
Kid-friendly, making dinner a breeze.
Gluten-free options available.

With this creamy chicken slow cooker recipe, you’ll turn dinner into a stress-free experience.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken

Gather these items:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 450 grams)
2 cups penne pasta (about 200 grams)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (about 300 grams)
1 cup chicken broth (about 240 ml)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (about 113 grams)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (about 113 grams)
1 cup diced tomatoes (about 240 grams)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: Layering the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in an even layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Step 2: Creating the Creamy Base: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth until smooth.
Step 3: Adding Pasta and Tomatoes: Sprinkle the dry penne pasta on top of the creamy chicken mixture, ensuring it’s mostly submerged in the liquid.
Step 4: Slow Cooking Magic: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or on HIGH for 2–3 hours.
Step 5: Shredding the Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken breasts and shred them into bite-sized pieces.
Step 6: Finishing Touches: Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until fully melted and enveloped in the creamy sauce.

Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
For a little kick, add red pepper flakes.
Check the chicken’s doneness to ensure perfection.
Consider adding vegetables for extra nutrition.
Cooking on LOW enhances flavors, but HIGH is quicker.

Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken

This dish is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas:

Serve with a side salad for a balanced meal.
Pair with garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Top with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

These serving suggestions enhance your meal with simple, complementary sides.

How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken

To store leftovers, let the dish cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to restore creaminess. This makes it an excellent choice for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken?

The secret lies in the quality of your ingredients. Using fresh chicken and high-quality cheese elevates the flavor and texture, ensuring your slow cooker chicken with cheese comes out perfect every time.

Can I make Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. Simply add to the slow cooker in the morning for a delicious dinner waiting for you at the end of the day.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken?

To prevent overcooking, always check the chicken’s internal temperature around the recommended time. It should reach 165°F (75°C). Also, avoid lifting the lid too often while cooking to maintain consistent heat.

Variations of Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken You Can Try

Here are some tasty variations to consider:

Add broccoli or spinach for a healthy twist.
Substitute chicken with turkey or even beef for different flavors.
Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack.
For a spicy kick, include jalapeños or hot sauce.

These variations highlight the American cuisine aspect of this dish while catering to different dietary preferences.

Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne: 5 Comforting Secrets - Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making cheesy mashed potato balls for a delightful side dish. If you’re interested in meal prep, consider Mediterranean chicken zucchini bake for a healthy option!

Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne: 5 Comforting Secrets

Author: Jannet Lisa
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Delicious Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne recipe with step-by-step instructions.

Instructions

Layering the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in an even layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Creating the Creamy Base: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth until smooth.
Adding Pasta and Tomatoes: Sprinkle the dry penne pasta on top of the creamy chicken mixture, ensuring it’s mostly submerged in the liquid.
Slow Cooking Magic: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or on HIGH for 2–3 hours.
Shredding the Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken breasts and shred them into bite-sized pieces.
Finishing Touches: Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until fully melted and enveloped in the creamy sauce.