Description

This slow cooker cheesy chicken penne is the ultimate hands-off dinner! Creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor. Just set it and forget it!

Ingredients

For the Slow Cooker Base:

1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: (about 2-3 large breasts). Using them raw is the secret to their incredible tenderness.
1 (24 oz) jar Marinara Sauce: Use a good-quality sauce you enjoy eating, as it forms the base of the flavor. A garlic and herb variety works wonderfully.
1 (8 oz) block Cream Cheese, softened and cubed: This is the magic ingredient that creates the creamy, luxurious texture. Full-fat is recommended for the best melt and flavor.
1 (15 oz) can Diced Tomatoes, undrained: These add a fresh, bright acidity that balances the richness of the cream cheese.
1 small Yellow Onion, finely diced: For a savory, aromatic foundation.
4 cloves Garlic, minced: Essential for building depth of flavor.
1 tsp Dried Basil
1 tsp Dried Oregano
½ tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)
½ tsp Black Pepper
½ tsp Salt (be cautious, as the marinara and broth contain salt)

For the Pasta and Final Assembly:

12 oz (about 3.5 cups) Penne Pasta, UNCOOKED: Using it uncooked is crucial. Do not use a “quick-cook” or “ready-cut” pasta.
3 cups Chicken Broth: This provides the necessary liquid for the pasta to cook through.
2 cups Fresh Spinach (optional, but recommended for a veggie boost): It wilts perfectly into the hot pasta.
2 cups Shredded Italian Cheese Blend: A mix of Mozzarella, Provolone, and Parmesan is ideal. You can also use just Mozzarella.
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan Cheese: For a sharp, salty finish.
Fresh Basil or Parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps for making this delightful Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne. It’s as easy as pie, and I promise you’ll feel like a culinary superstar!

Step 1: Layer the Aromatics and Chicken
Lightly spray your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray for easier cleanup. Scatter the finely diced onion and minced garlic evenly across the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the raw chicken breasts on top of the onions in a single layer. Season the chicken with the dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt.

Step 2: Create the Saucy Base
In a medium bowl, gently stir together the entire jar of marinara sauce and the undrained can of diced tomatoes. Pour this mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s mostly covered. Place the cubed, softened cream cheese evenly over the top of the sauce. DO NOT STIR. This layering is important to prevent the dairy from curdling at the beginning of the cooking process.

Step 3: The Low and Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. The chicken is ready when it is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken and Add Pasta & Broth
Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker. It should fall apart effortlessly. Now, add the uncooked penne pasta and the 3 cups of chicken broth. Stir everything together very well, ensuring all the pasta is submerged in the liquid. This is the point where you incorporate the cream cheese fully into the sauce, creating a creamy, pink-hued delight.

Step 5: The Final Cook and Cheese Addition
Cover the slow cooker again and cook on HIGH for an additional 45-60 minutes. The pasta should be tender and have absorbed most of the liquid. Check at the 45-minute mark to avoid overcooking.

Step 6: Wilt the Spinach and Add Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked, turn off the slow cooker. If using, stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts from the residual heat. Then, sprinkle the shredded Italian cheese blend and the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Replace the lid and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and gooey.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Give the casserole one final gentle stir to incorporate some of the melted cheese. Spoon into bowls, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve immediately

Notes

6-Quart or Larger Slow Cooker

Measuring Cups and Spoons

Cutting Board and Knife

Two Forks (for shredding chicken)

Mixing Spoon

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dinner
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: 580 kcal
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 1100 mg
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 52 g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 40 g