Description
Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne is a creamy, family-friendly comfort dish made with tender chicken, cheddar cheese, and pasta. Easy to prep and perfect for busy weeknights. Save and try it today!
Ingredients
1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
21 oz cream of chicken soup (two 10.5 oz cans; do not add water)
½ cup chicken broth
¼ tsp pepper
½ tsp dried leaf tarragon (or substitute with Italian seasoning, thyme, or oregano)
1 ½ cups sliced mushrooms
1 small sweet yellow onion, diced
1 cup sour cream (added at the end)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided (added at the end)
1 lb penne pasta, cooked al dente
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: In your 5-quart or larger slow cooker, combine the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth. Stir until smooth.
- Add Flavor and Veggies: Mix in the dried tarragon (or seasoning of choice), pepper, sliced mushrooms, and diced onion.
- Add Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts on top of the mixture.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours. Do not lift the lid during this time to ensure even cooking.
- Cook the Pasta: Near the end of the 6 hours, prepare your penne pasta on the stovetop, cooking to al dente. Drain well.
- Shred Chicken: After 6 hours, remove the chicken and shred it with two forks directly in the slow cooker.
- Add Creaminess: Stir in the sour cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Combine Pasta: Add the drained penne pasta and mix thoroughly.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
- Final Touch: Cover and let it cook on LOW for another 20 minutes until the cheese is fully melted.
- Serve and Enjoy: Dish out warm and cheesy servings of this hearty comfort meal.
Notes
To freeze ahead, combine all ingredients except sour cream and cheese, freeze, then cook as directed.
Omit mushrooms and onions if preferred and add ½ cup extra broth.
Stir gently to avoid breaking pasta.
Use freshly shredded cheese for the best texture.
Reheat leftovers with a splash of broth or milk to refresh the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American