Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Penne Recipe

This Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Penne is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner! Imagine tender chicken, perfectly cooked penne pasta, and a rich and creamy sauce, all made effortlessly in your slow cooker. This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just a few minutes of hands-on time and a handful of simple ingredients. It’s a satisfying and delicious meal that the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Let your slow cooker do the work! Simply combine the ingredients and let them simmer to perfection while you go about your day.
• Flavorful and Creamy: The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta is a classic for a reason. It’s a timeless comfort food that will warm you from the inside out.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup! Everything cooks together in the slow cooker, saving you time and effort.
• Versatile: Feel free to customize the flavors by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs to the sauce.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: A lean and healthy protein source.
• Heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.
• Chicken broth: Adds flavor and thins the sauce to the desired consistency.
• Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the sauce.
• Garlic puree: Adds a fragrant and savory punch.
• Salt and pepper: Season the dish to perfection.
• Penne noodles: A classic pasta shape that’s perfect for slow cooking.
• Shredded Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty and umami flavor to the dish.
• Parsley flakes: Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Penne

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Spray the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray. This will prevent the chicken and sauce from sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

Place the chicken breasts in a single layer in the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour the heavy cream and chicken broth over the chicken. Add the butter, garlic puree, salt, and pepper to the pot.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Place the lid on the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 3 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.

Step 4: Add Pasta and Cheese

After 2 hours of cooking time, use tongs to remove the cooked chicken breasts from the slow cooker and set them on a cutting board. Add the penne pasta and shredded Parmesan cheese to the slow cooker and stir well. Return the lid to the slow cooker and continue cooking for 30 minutes.

Step 5: Shred Chicken and Finish

While the pasta is cooking, chop the cooked chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. After the penne has cooked for 30 minutes, remove the lid and stir well. Add the chopped chicken to the pot and stir well. Add the parsley flakes and stir again. Return the lid to the pot and continue cooking for 10 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

After 10 minutes, turn off the slow cooker and stir well one last time. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use boneless, skinless thighs: For even more flavorful chicken, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.
• Adjust the cooking time: The cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker. Check the chicken and pasta for tenderness and adjust the cooking time as needed.
• Add extra vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the slow cooker along with the chicken, such as diced onions, sliced mushrooms, or chopped spinach.
• Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

How to Serve

This Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Penne is delicious on its own, but here are some serving suggestions:

• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
• Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread is perfect for dipping and sopping up the creamy sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for a balanced and nutritious meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Penne is great for making ahead of time or storing leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken and pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can! Other pasta shapes that work well in the slow cooker include rotini, farfalle, and small shells. Avoid long pasta shapes like spaghetti or fettuccine, as they tend to become mushy.

2. Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic puree? Absolutely! You can use 2-3 cloves of fresh garlic, minced, instead of garlic puree.

3. Can I add other seasonings to the sauce? Definitely! Italian seasoning, dried oregano, or a bay leaf would be delicious additions.

4. Can I make this recipe without the slow cooker? Yes, you can! Cook the chicken and sauce on the stovetop, then add the cooked pasta and simmer until everything is heated through.

This Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Penne Recipe is a simple and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender chicken, creamy sauce, and effortless preparation, it’s sure to become a new family favorite!

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