Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 4–5 hours (LOW) or 2–3 hours (HIGH)
Total Time: Approximately 5 hours
Servings: 6
Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

For the chicken and sauce

• 2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup chicken broth

• ½ cup Italian dressing

• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste

• 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the pasta

• 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta

• Water for boiling

• Additional Parmesan cheese for serving

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the slow cooker

Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker. Place the chicken breasts in a single layer.

Step 2: Add the liquid

Pour the chicken broth and Italian dressing over the chicken. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.

Step 3: Add cream cheese

Place the softened cream cheese on top of the chicken. Cover the slow cooker with its lid.

Step 4: Slow cook

Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Shred the chicken

Remove the cooked chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.

Step 6: Add broccoli

Stir in the broccoli florets. Cover and cook for approximately 20–30 minutes, until tender.

Step 7: Cook the pasta

Meanwhile, boil penne pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well.

Step 8: Make the creamy sauce

Stir the cream cheese mixture until smooth. Add grated Parmesan cheese and mix until the sauce becomes creamy. If it is too thick, add a little warm chicken broth.

Step 9: Combine everything

Add the cooked penne pasta to the slow cooker. Toss gently until the pasta, chicken, broccoli, and sauce are evenly combined.

Step 10: Serve

Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, freshly chopped parsley, and a little black pepper. Serve warm!

Nutritional Information

Estimated values per serving, based on 6 servings.

Nut Information

• Almonds: 0 g

• Walnuts: 0 g

• Cashews: 0 g

• Peanuts: 0 g

• Total nuts: 0 g

Check the labels of Italian dressing, seasoning, and other packaged ingredients for possible nut cross-contact if cooking for someone with a nut allergy.

Helpful Cooking Tips

1. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce.

2. Do not overcook the broccoli; add it toward the end.

3. Cook pasta separately to prevent it from becoming mushy.

4. Use frozen broccoli directly without thawing.

5. Add extra broth if you prefer a thinner sauce.

6. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Serving Suggestion: Enjoy with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables.

Enjoy your delicious, creamy chicken broccoli pasta!