Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli Pasta and Cheese
There’s nothing better than coming home to a slow cooker full of creamy, cheesy comfort food. This Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli Pasta and Cheese is one of those magical dump-and-go dinners that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen — but really, your slow cooker did all the work.
Tender chunks of chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, fresh broccoli, ranch seasoning, and plenty of melted cheddar come together in one cozy, family-friendly meal. It’s creamy, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner to practically make itself.
Why I Love This Recipe
As someone who’s constantly testing comfort food recipes, I love meals that strike the perfect balance between easy and indulgent. This one checks every box:
- ✔️ Minimal prep (just 10 minutes!)
- ✔️ One pot (your slow cooker does it all)
- ✔️ Kid-approved flavors
- ✔️ Creamy, cheesy, and hearty
- ✔️ Makes great leftovers
It reminds me of the creamy richness in Fettuccine Alfredo – The Creamy Pasta That Became a Comfort Food Favorite, but with the added bonus of protein-packed chicken and nutritious broccoli — all made effortlessly in the crockpot.
Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli Pasta and Cheese
Creamy slow cooker pasta with tender chicken, broccoli, ranch seasoning, and plenty of melted cheddar.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: min | Total: min
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 5 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 8 oz small shell pasta
- 8 oz shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet Ranch seasoning
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
Instructions
- Spray the inside of the slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
- Add chicken, broccoli, pasta, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, milk, chicken broth, Ranch seasoning, minced garlic, and dry mustard powder to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until chicken is cooked through and pasta is tender.
- Stir well before serving. Optionally sprinkle additional cheese on top and allow it to melt before serving.
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 calories
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbs: 32 g
- Protein: 32 g
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Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this comforting slow cooker pasta:
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 5 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 8 oz small shell pasta
- 8 oz shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 packet Ranch seasoning
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
Ingredient Swaps & Notes
- Chicken: You can substitute boneless chicken thighs for extra richness.
- Pasta: Small shells work beautifully because they hold the sauce, but elbow macaroni or rotini also work.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds more flavor. You can mix in Monterey Jack for extra meltiness.
- Broccoli: Fresh is best, but frozen works in a pinch — just reduce cook time slightly.
- Milk: Whole milk creates the creamiest texture, but 2% can be used.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Slow Cooker
Spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Add Ingredients
Add the chicken, broccoli, pasta, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, milk, chicken broth, Ranch seasoning, minced garlic, and dry mustard powder. Stir everything together to combine.
3. Cook
Cover and cook:
- On low for 4–5 hours, or
- On high for 2–3 hours
The chicken should be fully cooked and the pasta tender.
4. Stir & Finish
Stir well before serving. For extra cheesiness, sprinkle additional shredded cheddar on top, cover for a few minutes, and let it melt.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook: Pasta can become too soft if left too long. Check around the minimum cook time.
- Cube chicken evenly so it cooks uniformly.
- Shred your own cheese for the smoothest melt — pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents.
- If the mixture seems thick at the end, stir in a splash of warm milk.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This dish is rich and creamy, so I love pairing it with something fresh and crisp.
A side of Easy Homemade Caesar Salad with Chicken balances the meal beautifully with its bright dressing and crunchy romaine.
For potlucks or gatherings, serve it alongside Easy Classic Pasta Salad for Any Gathering to offer both creamy and chilled pasta options.
And if you’re planning a comfort-food dinner spread, consider finishing the meal with a slice of Moist 1-Bowl Banana Bread – The Easy Recipe That Never Fails for a simple, nostalgic dessert.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 32g
This is a well-balanced meal with a strong protein boost from chicken and cheese, making it filling and satisfying.
Storage & Leftover Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: You can freeze portions for up to 2 months, though the pasta texture may soften slightly when reheated.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave in 30-second intervals, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Leftovers also make an easy next-day lunch — similar to meal-prep favorites like Classic French Toast – The Golden Breakfast Everyone Loves and other make-ahead staples.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If creamy, comforting dinners are your thing, be sure to check out:
- Fettuccine Alfredo – The Creamy Pasta That Became a Comfort Food Favorite
- Easy Homemade Caesar Salad with Chicken
- Easy Classic Pasta Salad for Any Gathering
- Moist 1-Bowl Banana Bread – The Easy Recipe That Never Fails
These recipes pair perfectly with busy lifestyles and big appetites.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Chicken and Broccoli Pasta and Cheese is exactly the kind of recipe I love sharing — simple, comforting, and guaranteed to please the whole table. Whether you’re feeding a family on a weeknight or prepping ahead for a busy week, this slow cooker dinner delivers every time.
If you try it, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment, share your tweaks, and don’t forget to follow along for more comforting, practical recipes straight from my kitchen to yours.
– Jason Griffith
