If you love the rich, comforting flavors of Italian food with minimal effort, Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Pasta is about to become your new weeknight hero. This dish combines tender shredded chicken, tangy marinara sauce, gooey cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta—all done in your trusty slow cooker. It’s a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal that feels like an Italian grandma’s hug, yet only takes a few minutes of hands-on work. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting friends for a casual get-together, this recipe is pure comfort with every cheesy, saucy bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things simple with pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, making each one shine. Every component adds depth, creaminess, or irresistible color, so don’t skip any—each has a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These become tender and shred beautifully, soaking up all the delicious sauce.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides that classic, comforting base note you expect in Italian dishes.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Rounds out the flavor and adds a subtle sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings authentic Italian flair to the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out all those savory flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle warmth and kick.
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce: Choose your favorite brand for a robust tomato base—homemade works too!
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and deeply flavorful as it cooks.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into oozing perfection—don’t be shy here.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses sharp, nutty goodness that defines classic Chicken Parmesan.
- 8 oz penne or rotini pasta (uncooked): Short pasta holds sauce and melds with the filling for the ultimate bite.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil (chopped, for garnish): These bright greens finish the dish with freshness and vibrant color.
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat, extra Parmesan for topping: Spice lovers and cheese fiends, this is your moment to shine!
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Step 1: Layer the Chicken and Seasonings
Begin by placing your boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of a lightly greased slow cooker. This creates a juicy base layer and ensures the chicken cooks evenly. Next, generously sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper directly over the chicken—seasoning at this stage ensures the flavors are deeply infused as everything simmers away.
Step 2: Add the Sauce and Broth
Pour the marinara sauce and chicken broth over your seasoned chicken. The sauce brings that rich tomato flavor, while a splash of broth keeps things luscious and helps the chicken stay ultra-tender. Make sure every bit of the chicken is covered before securing the lid.
Step 3: Slow Cook Until Tender
Set your slow cooker to low for 4 to 5 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken shreds effortlessly with a fork and the aroma in your kitchen is just downright irresistible. This gentle cooking infuses every piece of chicken with sauce and seasoning.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred it into hearty pieces—no need to be too precise here, rustic is perfect. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and give it a good stir to coat the meat with the flavorful sauce.
Step 5: Add and Cook the Pasta
Now it’s time for the magic of slow cooker pasta. Stir in your uncooked penne or rotini, making sure each piece is submerged in sauce—that’s key for even cooking. Replace the lid and crank the heat to high. In about 20–30 minutes, your pasta will be perfectly al dente and infused with all that Italian goodness.
Step 6: Stir in the Cheeses
Once your pasta is tender, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan right into the slow cooker. Give it all a thorough stir until the cheeses melt and everything is perfectly creamy and dreamy. The cheesy sauce clings to every bite, making this meal downright addictive.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish with a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil for a burst of color and herby brightness. If you like, toss on some red pepper flakes for heat or a little extra Parmesan for good measure. Your crowd will go wild the moment you lift the lid and unleash those cheesy aromas!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Garnishes
The finishing touches really make this dish pop. A scattering of vibrant parsley or basil gives a fresh, inviting look, while a dusting of extra Parmesan is basically required for any self-respecting pasta lover. For those who crave a little kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can take things up a notch in the best way.
Side Dishes
This hearty pasta loves keeping company! Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette or serve some garlic bread on the side to mop up every drop of that cheesy tomato sauce. Roasted vegetables or classic antipasto platters also turn this meal into a true Italian feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dramatic table moment, transfer your Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Pasta to a broiler-safe dish, scatter with extra mozzarella, and broil for 2 to 3 minutes until beautifully bubbly and golden. Or serve in individual oven-proof ramekins for a personal touch—perfect if you love crispy cheese in every nook!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a lifesaver for busy weeks. Cool the dish completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as they sit, making reheated bowls even more irresistible the next day.
Freezing
This dish actually freezes quite well. Portion cooled pasta into individual freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating so the pasta stays tender and the sauce is creamy.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir frequently to keep things creamy, and top with a fresh sprinkle of cheese and herbs for that just-cooked magic.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs give even more flavor and richness to Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Pasta. Simply adjust the cooking time so they’re fork-tender before shredding.
Can I make Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Pasta gluten free?
Yes, just substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta and keep an eye on the texture during the final cook—some gluten-free pastas cook a bit faster or can get softer more quickly.
Is it possible to prep this ahead?
You can assemble everything (except for the pasta and cheeses) right in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply set it in the cooker and let it do its thing, adding the pasta and cheeses later as directed.
My pasta turned out mushy, what went wrong?
Pasta can overcook quickly in the slow cooker, so check it after 20 minutes and stir. Use sturdy pasta shapes like penne or rotini, and make sure the pasta is just barely submerged in the sauce for the best texture.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! You can stir in sliced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms along with the cooked chicken before adding the pasta. This is a great way to boost flavor, color, and nutrition in your Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Pasta.
Final Thoughts
There’s a very special kind of dinner magic that happens when you make Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Pasta—layers of comfort, lots of cheesy goodness, and almost no work required. Give this recipe a try and let it become the weeknight classic you look forward to time and time again!
Print
Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-5 hours (on low) or 2-3 hours (on high)
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes – 5 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, savory marinara sauce, and melted cheese with al dente pasta. It’s an easy and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce and Cheese:
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Pasta:
- 8 oz penne or rotini pasta (uncooked)
Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil (chopped, for garnish)
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat, extra Parmesan for topping
Instructions
- Season and Cook Chicken: Place chicken in the slow cooker, season with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Pour in marinara sauce and chicken broth. Cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours.
- Shred Chicken and Add Pasta: Remove chicken, shred, return to slow cooker. Add uncooked pasta, ensuring it’s covered in sauce. Cook on high for 20–30 minutes until pasta is al dente.
- Add Cheese and Serve: Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted. Garnish with parsley or basil. Serve hot with additional cheese or red pepper flakes.
Notes
- For a crispy topping, transfer to a baking dish after slow cooking, add more cheese and breadcrumbs, and broil for 2–3 minutes.
- You can use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, adjusting cook time as needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
