Toss the chicken in the slow cooker and just 4 other ingredients. You get a meal so delicious your family will be begging for more, and it’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Spray the inside of your slow cooker lightly with nonstick cooking spray for easier cleanup.
Lay the chicken breasts in a single layer on the bottom of the slow cooker.
Pour the marinara or pasta sauce evenly over the chicken, making sure all the chicken is covered. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the top of the sauce.
Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or on HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is very tender and easily shreds with a fork.
About 20 minutes before you’re ready to eat, cook the penne pasta according to the package directions, then drain well.
Use two forks to shred the cooked chicken directly in the slow cooker, stirring it into the sauce until well combined.
Stir 1 cup of the shredded Parmesan cheese into the saucy shredded chicken until it melts and the mixture looks creamy and cheesy.
Add the hot, drained penne pasta to the slow cooker and gently toss until all of the pasta is coated in the cheesy chicken and sauce.
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Cover and let sit on WARM for 5–10 minutes, just until the cheese melts.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then spoon into bowls and serve hot.
