Ultimate Comfort Food Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a meal that simmers slowly, filling your kitchen with the scent of garlic, herbs, and melting cheese. My Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out—a perfect blend of cozy, simple, and utterly delicious. Growing up in my grandmother Nonna Rosa’s kitchen in Monterey, I learned early on that food is more than just fuel; it’s a way to gather, to share stories, and to connect across generations. This recipe is my tribute to those slow Sunday afternoons when the whole family would gather around the table, savoring every bite of something made with love and patience.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne

What I adore most about this Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne is how effortlessly it brings comfort food to your table without demanding hours of attention. From my days in Italy, wandering bustling markets and tasting rustic fare, I’ve come to appreciate dishes that celebrate simple ingredients prepared thoughtfully. This recipe captures that spirit perfectly—it’s a one-pot wonder that combines tender chicken, al dente penne, and gooey cheese, all cooked low and slow to meld flavors beautifully.

It’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re juggling work, family, or just craving something hearty on a chilly evening, this slow cooker dish frees you up to focus on what matters while your kitchen fills with those irresistible aromas. I remember teaching my daughters Olivia and Isabella to help me stir the pot gently, their eyes wide with excitement as the cheese stretched and the sauce thickened. It’s these moments—passing down traditions and creating new memories—that make this recipe so special to me.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
• 3 cups penne pasta, uncooked
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Substitution tips: If you prefer a lighter version, swap whole milk for 2% or a creamy plant-based milk like oat milk. For a different cheese profile, try fontina or provolone instead of mozzarella. And if penne isn’t your favorite, rigatoni or ziti work just as well.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 480 per serving (serves 4)
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 550mg

These numbers come from balancing hearty chicken and cheese with wholesome pasta and fresh ingredients. Growing up near the coast, I’ve always believed in meals that nourish both body and soul, and this recipe fits that philosophy perfectly. It’s filling without feeling heavy—a satisfying way to feed a family or enjoy leftovers the next day.

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Steps to Create Your Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne

1. Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to your slow cooker. Nestle the chicken breasts on top, then sprinkle with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, milk, and drained diced tomatoes. Give everything a gentle stir to combine the ingredients without disturbing the chicken too much.
4. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours. The chicken should be tender and cooked through.
5. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
6. Add the uncooked penne pasta, stirring gently to ensure it’s submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook on high for another 30 to 40 minutes, checking occasionally to make sure the pasta is tender and the sauce hasn’t dried out. Add a splash of broth if needed.
7. When the pasta is perfectly cooked, stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if you like. I love how this final touch adds a bright note that reminds me of my grandmother’s garden in Monterey.

“Slow cooking teaches patience, but the reward is a dish bursting with deep, developed flavors that bring everyone to the table.”

Tips for Making the Best Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne

From my years spent cooking alongside Nonna Rosa and experimenting in kitchens from Tuscany to Spain, I’ve learned a few tricks to elevate this dish: Learn more: Ultimate Comfort Food Chicken Spaghetti Bake Recipe You Have to Try

• Don’t rush the chicken: Low and slow is the key to tender, juicy chicken that shreds beautifully.
• Drain the tomatoes well: Excess liquid can make the sauce too watery, so give those diced tomatoes a good drain before adding.
• Use whole milk or cream: It might feel indulgent, but this adds richness and helps the cheese melt into a smooth, luscious sauce.
• Check pasta doneness often: Slow cookers vary, so keep an eye on your penne to avoid mushiness. Adding pasta too early can lead to overcooking.
• Fresh herbs make a difference: I always keep a small pot of basil on my windowsill. A sprinkle right before serving brightens the dish and connects me to those childhood afternoons in my grandmother’s garden.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne is a meal all on its own, but I love pairing it with a crisp green salad tossed in a simple lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A rustic loaf of crusty bread—perhaps a sourdough I baked with Olivia and Isabella on a rainy afternoon—makes a perfect side to soak up the sauce.

If you’re hosting a casual dinner, a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or a light Spanish Albariño complements the creamy textures with their bright acidity. For a heartier touch, serve alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans drizzled with garlic and olive oil.

Storage and Reheating Tips

One of the greatest joys of this recipe is how well it keeps. After a family dinner, I often pack leftovers for the next day’s lunch, knowing the flavors only deepen overnight.

• Storage: Cool the Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well without the pasta becoming too mushy. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the sauce seems thick, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.

I often find myself making a double batch so I can savor this dish again during a busy weekday—comfort food that feels homemade and nourishing, even when time is short.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main ingredients for Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne?

The main ingredients for Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

How long does it take to make Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne?

The total time to make Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.

Can I make Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne ahead of time?

Yes, Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne?

Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.

Is Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne suitable for special diets?

Depending on the ingredients used, Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne is more than just a recipe to me. It’s a bridge between my past and present, a way to keep family traditions alive while embracing the realities of a busy life. As a mother in my cozy Monterey kitchen, I cherish how food connects us—whether it’s teaching my daughters the art of slow cooking or simply creating a meal that feels like home.

This dish invites you to slow down and savor the simple pleasures: the mingling of flavors, the melting of cheese, and the joy of sharing something made with care. I hope it brings your family as much comfort and happiness as it has mine, becoming a cherished staple in your own kitchen stories.