Jonathan Rice June 26, 2026

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Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne

Name: Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts; 21 oz cream of chicken soup (two 10.5 oz cans; don’t add water); ½ cup chicken broth; ¼ tsp. pepper; ½ tsp. dried leaf tarragon (can substitute oregano, thyme, or Italian seasoning); 1 ½ cups sliced mushrooms; 1 small sweet yellow onion (diced); 1 cup sour cream; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided); 1 lb. penne pasta (cooked according to package directions on the stovetop)

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Warm and inviting, Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne is the perfect dish to bring the family together for a cozy evening at home. The rich aroma of cheesy goodness wafts through the kitchen as the flavors meld beautifully over hours, creating a comforting meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or just looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this cheesy chicken penne dish is sure to delight. You may also find Chicken Burrito Bowl Slow Cooker useful.

Reasons to Love This Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne

There are several reasons why this recipe stands out among the crowd. Its combination of creamy textures and hearty chicken offers both comfort and satisfaction. Here are a few highlights:

Cooked in the slow cooker, it allows for hands-free meal preparation, so you can go about your day while it simmers to perfection.
The blend of cheese, chicken, and pasta creates a mouthwatering, rich dish that appeals to both children and adults alike.
It can be easily customized with your favorite ingredients or seasonings for a personal touch.

If you’re looking for a simple yet indulgent meal, Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne is a fantastic choice.

Gather These Ingredients

This recipe calls for some key ingredients that work perfectly together to create a delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 ½ lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts
21 oz cream of chicken soup (two 10.5 oz cans; don’t add water)
½ cup chicken broth
¼ tsp. pepper
½ tsp. dried leaf tarragon (can substitute oregano, thyme, or Italian seasoning)
1 ½ cups sliced mushrooms
1 small sweet yellow onion (diced)
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
1 lb. penne pasta (cooked according to package directions on the stovetop)

The creamy soup and cheese work together to envelop everything in rich flavors, while the chicken provides a tender, savory base for your pasta.

Bringing It Together

Begin by adding the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth to the slow cooker. Stir the mixture until it’s smooth and well combined.
Next, add the tarragon, pepper, mushrooms, and diced onions. Give everything a good stir to blend the ingredients.
Place the boneless chicken breasts into the slow cooker, covering them with the mixture.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 hours, ensuring not to open the lid during the cooking process.
Once the chicken is fully cooked, cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente; be careful not to overcook.
After draining the pasta, shred the chicken with two forks right in the slow cooker.
Add in the sour cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until everything is well mixed.
Finally, incorporate the cooked pasta into the slow cooker and stir gently. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top, cover, and cook for an additional 20 minutes on low.

Prep ~ 15 minutes, Cook ~ 6 hours, Total ~ 6 hours and 15 minutes, Servings ~ 6-8, Kcal ~ 550.

Plan Ahead

If you’re short on time, consider doing some prep work in advance. You can chop the onions and mushrooms the day before, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The night before, you can also combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and spices in the slow cooker. In the morning, simply add the chicken and set your cooker on low for an effortless meal when you return home.

How to Store Leftovers

Once you’ve enjoyed your Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne, any leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the dish in an airtight container; it can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When reheating, use a microwave or stovetop on low heat and stir occasionally to ensure even warming. The texture should be creamy and inviting, reminding you of the first dish you served.

Perfect Pairings

Consider these delightful dishes that pair perfectly with your Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne:

A crisp garden salad to add some fresh greens
Garlic bread for that savory crunch
Steamed vegetables for a healthy side
A light fruit salad to cleanse the palate
Another great slow cooker meal, like a Crockpot Marry Me Chicken, to impress your guests

Variations and Swaps

There are numerous ways to twist this classic recipe to fit your tastes. Here are some ideas:

Swap out chicken for ground turkey or ground chicken for a leaner option.
Add veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
If you prefer a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Try different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique twist.
Mix in some cooked turkey bacon during the last 15 minutes for a smokier flavor.

Cook’s Notes and Secrets

To ensure your Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

Ensure your slow cooker is set to the correct temperature to achieve optimal cooking results.
Stir occasionally when you can to prevent sticking.
For even better flavor, let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to melt uniformly.
Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F.

Your Questions Answered

Can I use whole wheat pasta instead?
Yes, whole wheat pasta can be a great alternative for added fiber and nutrition.
What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
You can create a homemade version using chicken broth, milk, and seasonings if you’re out of canned soup.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, celery, or even green beans can enhance the dish’s flavor.
Is it possible to slow-cook this on high?
While it’s recommended to cook it on low for the best result, cooking on high for about 3-4 hours is possible if you’re short on time.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can substitute the chicken with chunks of tofu or additional vegetables and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth.

Wrapping Up

Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal occasion. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser, perfect for both busy weeknights and laid-back weekends. Dive into this creation soon and savor the cozy flavors that will make your kitchen feel like home.