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Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Penne

Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Penne
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Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting slow cooker meal combining tender chicken, velvety cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta. Easy to prepare with just a few ingredients, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners, pleasing families and adaptable to various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1.5 to 2 lbs chicken breasts, fresh

Dairy

  • 8 oz cream cheese, cut into chunks
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Produce (Optional)

  • 2–3 green onions or a handful of fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Pantry Staples & Seasonings

  • 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 3 cups cooked penne pasta (cooked al dente)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Place chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Lightly season with garlic powder, onion powder, and ranch seasoning mix to build a flavorful base.
  2. Add Cream Cheese and Broth: Scatter chunks of cream cheese evenly over the chicken, then pour in the chicken broth. This mixture will create a creamy sauce as it cooks.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours until chicken is fully cooked and easily shreddable with a fork.
  4. Shred and Mix: Shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks. Stir well to blend the cream cheese into the cooking liquid, forming a luscious sauce.
  5. Add Cheese and Pasta: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined. Gently fold in the cooked penne pasta and allow it to warm through for 5 to 10 minutes to marry the flavors.

Notes

  • Use fresh chicken breasts for better shredding and flavor absorption.
  • Cook pasta just until al dente to avoid mushiness after mixing.
  • Don’t skip the cream cheese—it provides the essential creamy texture.
  • Mix chicken and pasta gently to keep penne intact and prevent over-stirring.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions to brighten the dish.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker chicken recipe, creamy chicken pasta, crack chicken penne, easy slow cooker dinner, family-friendly pasta

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/slow-cooker-crack-chicken-penne/