Description
A comforting and creamy slow cooker chicken and penne pasta dish that combines tender shredded chicken, a rich tomato and cream cheese sauce, and fresh spinach, perfect for an easy and satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Sauce
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with juices
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese and Pasta
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 ounces penne pasta, cooked al dente
Optional and Garnish
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Slow Cooker Ingredients: Place the chicken breasts into the slow cooker. Add diced onion, minced garlic, diced tomatoes with juices, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper on top of the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 3 hours until the chicken is tender and thoroughly cooked.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, shred the chicken directly inside the slow cooker using two forks or tongs to break it apart evenly throughout the sauce.
- Add Cheese for Creaminess: Stir in the cubed cream cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until the cheeses have fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Incorporate Pasta and Spinach: Just before serving, fold in the cooked penne pasta and fresh spinach if using. Stir gently to combine and allow the spinach to wilt slightly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top as a garnish. Serve the creamy chicken and penne warm for a delicious meal.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and whole wheat pasta.
- If you prefer a thinner sauce, add an additional 1/2 cup chicken broth before stirring in the pasta.
- This recipe reheats well and makes a great meal prep option.
