Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Pasta
This Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate hands-off dinner! Tender chicken, rich marinara, and melty cheese combine for a cozy, family-friendly meal.
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 24 oz marinara sauce 1 jar
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups uncooked penne pasta
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Start by rinsing your chicken breasts and patting them dry. Slice into large chunks if desired. Measure out marinara sauce, chicken broth, and uncooked penne pasta.
- In the slow cooker, pour marinara sauce and chicken broth. Sprinkle garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine. Add chicken breasts, pressing down to submerge.
- Cover slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2.5 hours until chicken is tender.
- Stir in uncooked penne pasta, ensuring it is submerged. Add more chicken broth if needed. Cover and cook on high for 25-30 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Cover and let cheese melt for 5-10 minutes until bubbly and gooey.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting blend of chicken, pasta, and cheese.
Equipment
- Slow cooker (4-6 quart)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Cheese grater
- Cutting board and knife
Notes
- For creamier texture, stir in ½ cup ricotta cheese just before serving.
- Shred cooked chicken after first cooking phase for easier eating, then add pasta.
- Use high-quality marinara sauce for best flavor.
- Fresh basil garnish adds a fragrant, fresh finish.
- Substitute penne with rigatoni or shells for different texture variations.