If you’re craving a meal that’s effortlessly comforting, ridiculously creamy, and incredibly satisfying, then the Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Penne Recipe is about to become your new go-to. This dish brings together tender chicken swimming in a luscious, velvety sauce with perfectly cooked penne pasta, all made easy in your slow cooker. Whether you’re busy with work, managing a hectic family schedule, or just want dinner ready without fuss, this recipe delivers that rich, restaurant-quality flavor with zero stress. Every bite feels like a warm hug, making it perfect for cozy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends.

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Penne Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple and straightforward ingredients is the first step to creating this unforgettable meal. Each component plays a special role, from the creaminess of the heavy cream to the savory depth added by garlic and Parmesan. Together, they balance to create the perfect texture and flavor profile.

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The main protein that becomes tender and juicy after slow cooking.
3 cups heavy cream: Provides a rich, silky sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
1 cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth and balances the richness of the cream.
¼ cup butter: Enhances the luscious texture and adds a mild buttery flavor.
1 tablespoon garlic puree: Infuses the dish with aromatic garlic notes without the fuss of chopping fresh cloves.
¼ teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and warmth.
10 oz penne pasta, uncooked: Shapes that hold the creamy sauce beautifully once cooked.
½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
½ tablespoon parsley flakes: Offers a pop of color and a mild herbaceous note to finish the dish.

How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Penne Recipe

Step 1: Layer Ingredients

Start by spraying the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Lay the chicken breasts flat on the bottom, creating a flavorful base. Then pour the heavy cream and chicken broth over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully covered to keep everything moist and tender as it cooks. Add the butter, garlic puree, salt, and pepper right on top; these seasonings will infuse the chicken slowly, building rich layers of flavor.

Step 2: Cook Chicken

Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on HIGH for 3 hours. During this time, the chicken will become incredibly tender and soak up all the delicious seasonings. This slow-cooking process breaks down the fibers, making the chicken perfect for shredding and mixing back into the dish later.

Step 3: Add Pasta

After 2 hours of cooking, carefully remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Immediately add the uncooked penne pasta and shredded Parmesan cheese into the slow cooker, stirring well to combine everything. The creamy liquid will gently cook the pasta, allowing it to absorb those savory flavors. Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes to get the penne perfectly tender.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir in the parsley flakes for a fresh finish. Cover and cook for another 10 minutes to meld all the flavors together and ensure everything is piping hot. Finally, turn off the slow cooker and get ready to serve a bowl of pure comfort.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Penne Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate this creamy chicken and penne dish, sprinkle a little extra shredded Parmesan or freshly cracked black pepper on top before serving. A handful of chopped fresh parsley or basil can brighten the look and flavor, adding a lovely herbal touch that complements the richness perfectly. For a touch of texture, consider toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil.

Side Dishes

This recipe stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with fresh, crisp sides. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the cream sauce, while roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans add color and crunch. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are fantastic for soaking up every bit of that silky sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions or when entertaining, serve the Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Penne Recipe in individual ramekins or shallow bowls for an elegant touch. Layer it with extra Parmesan and broil briefly for a bubbly, golden top. You can also spoon the creamy mixture over grilled polenta cakes or stuffed into hollowed-out bell peppers for a fun twist that keeps things exciting on the dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this creamy chicken and penne keep very well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even tastier next-day meal. Just give it a good stir before reheating to redistribute the sauce evenly.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze the Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Penne Recipe in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure it cools completely before freezing, and leave a little room at the top for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even warming. You may want to add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. The microwave works in a pinch—just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between to keep it creamy and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add an even more tender, juicy texture and richer flavor. Be sure to adjust cooking time slightly if needed, but generally thighs work beautifully in the Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Penne Recipe.

Do I need to pre-cook the pasta before adding it to the slow cooker?

No need to pre-cook the penne. The uncooked pasta absorbs the flavors and cooks perfectly in the creamy sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Just stir well to prevent sticking.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free or lighter?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute, and use a vegan butter alternative to keep it dairy-free. For a lighter version, try half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich.

Is it okay to use fresh garlic instead of garlic puree?

Yes! Fresh garlic minced finely works wonderfully. Use 2-3 cloves for a similar garlic punch, sautéing it lightly before adding for a milder flavor or adding it raw for more intensity.

Can this Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Penne Recipe be doubled for a larger crowd?

Definitely. Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the increased volume. You may need to slightly increase cooking times, and stirring during the pasta phase can help even cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Penne Recipe is the kind of dish that welcomes you home with open arms every time. It’s a perfect blend of ease, comfort, and incredible flavor that feels special without hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding family, impressing friends, or just treating yourself to a cozy night in, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with its creamy, dreamy goodness just like I did.