If you’re anything like me, weeknights can feel like a whirlwind—school pickups, work emails, and somehow you still need to feed the family something other than cereal (again). Enter the hero of the kitchen: the slow cooker. And today, it’s bringing us a cozy, cheesy, one-pot wonder—Chicken and Pasta Slow Cooker Recipes that are as easy as they are delicious.
This creamy, hearty dish is perfect for those nights when you want comfort food without standing over a stove. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and melty cheese, it’s a meal the whole crew will request again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Recipe
- Set it and forget it: Toss everything in and let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting.
- Kid-approved: Creamy pasta and cheese? Say no more.
- Minimal cleanup: One pot, one spoon—done.
- Flexible ingredients: Use what you have on hand and make it your own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 🍗
- 3 cups chicken broth 🍗
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken or mushroom soup 🥫
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning 🌿
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder 🧄
- 1/2 tsp salt 🧂
- 1/2 tsp black pepper ⚫
- 8 oz uncooked penne or rotini pasta 🍝
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese 🧀
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
- Optional: 1/2 cup heavy cream or cream cheese for extra creaminess 🥛
- Fresh parsley for garnish 🌿
How to Make Chicken and Pasta in the Slow Cooker
- Place the chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth and cream of soup. Stir in the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender enough to shred.
- Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the slow cooker.
- Add the uncooked pasta and heavy cream or cream cheese (if using). Stir well, making sure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid.
- Cover and cook on high for another 20–30 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally if you’re nearby.
- Sprinkle the cheddar (or mozzarella) and Parmesan cheese over the top. Let it melt for about 5 minutes with the lid on.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm!
Tips to Nail It Every Time
- Use short pasta: Penne, rotini, or shells work best—they cook evenly and soak up all that creamy flavor.
- Keep an eye on the pasta: Slow cookers vary, so start checking at 20 minutes to avoid mushiness.
- No cream? No problem: This dish is still rich without the optional cream, but it adds a velvety texture that’s hard to resist.
- Make it your own: Add peas, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for a twist. Or try buffalo-style by swapping in hot sauce and ranch seasoning—like in this buffalo chicken pasta recipe.
A Little Backstory (Because We All Have One)
This recipe came to life on a chilly Thursday night when I had nothing planned and everything frozen solid. I tossed a couple of chicken breasts into the slow cooker with what I had in the pantry, crossed my fingers, and hoped for the best. And let me tell you—when that cheesy aroma hit the air, my family came running. Now, it’s a staple we make at least twice a month (okay, maybe more).
FAQs About Chicken and Pasta Slow Cooker Recipes
Can I substitute chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Thighs are juicier and work beautifully in slow cooking.
Can I cook the pasta separately?
Yes! If you’re worried about texture, cook the pasta on the stovetop and stir it in just before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add a splash of broth or milk when reheating to keep it creamy.
Can I freeze this dish?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, as the pasta can get mushy after freezing. But if you leave out the pasta and freeze just the chicken mix, you’re good to go!
More Slow Cooker Recipes to Love
- Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo – creamy, dreamy, and ultra satisfying.
- Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Soup – for a zesty twist on your weeknight dinner.
- Easy Crockpot Chicken and Rice – another family favorite with pantry staples.
So next time you’re staring into the fridge wondering what’s for dinner, just remember: your slow cooker has your back. This chicken and pasta recipe is comforting, easy, and perfect for the chaos of everyday life. Plus, your kitchen will smell like a cozy Italian bistro, and who doesn’t want that?
Now go ahead, grab that apron (or don’t—we won’t tell), toss the ingredients in the pot, and let the magic happen. Dinner’s never been this simple—or this delicious.
