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Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Penne

This comforting slow cooker cheesy chicken penne features tender chicken stewed in a creamy soup base, shredded and mixed with penne and melted cheddar for an easy, kid-friendly casserole-style meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 580
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra flavor)
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
  • 0.5 cup chicken broth (sub: low-sodium broth or water + bouillon)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 cup sour cream (plain)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided (use sharp cheddar for more tang)
  • 1 pound penne pasta, cooked and drained

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper and place it in the slow cooker.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and chicken broth together until smooth.
  3. Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and add the diced onion.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, until the chicken is tender.
  5. About 15 minutes before the chicken is finished, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne to al dente. Drain and set aside.
  6. When the chicken is tender, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker.
  7. Stir in the sour cream and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar until the sauce is smooth.
  8. Add the cooked penne and toss gently to combine until fully coated.
  9. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar over the top, cover and let sit for 3–5 minutes until the cheese melts.
  10. Serve hot and enjoy.

Notes

For added flavor, substitute chicken thighs for breasts and sauté onions for sweetness. This dish is freezer friendly and can be made ahead of time.