If you love easy comfort food that feels restaurant-quality but is simple enough for busy weeknights, this Slow Cooker Creamy Gruyère Chicken Fusilli is the perfect recipe. Tender chicken, perfectly cooked fusilli pasta, and a rich, velvety Gruyère cheese sauce come together in one cozy, family-friendly meal.
This dish is ideal for readers searching for “creamy chicken pasta recipe,” “slow cooker chicken pasta,” “easy crockpot chicken dinner,” and “high-protein comfort food meals.” It’s satisfying, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Pasta
✔ Easy crockpot chicken recipe
✔ Rich and creamy Gruyère cheese sauce
✔ Family-friendly comfort food
✔ Perfect for meal prep
✔ High-protein pasta dinner
Ingredients
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
1 cup heavy cream
1 ½ cups shredded Gruyère cheese
8 oz cream cheese, softened
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon black pepper
12 oz fusilli pasta
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley (optional garnish)
How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Gruyère Chicken Fusilli
Step 1: Slow Cook the Chicken
Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Add chicken broth, garlic, Italian seasoning, and black pepper.
Cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until chicken is tender.
Step 2: Shred the Chicken
Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return it to the slow cooker.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Gruyère Sauce
Stir in heavy cream and cream cheese. Let cook for 20–30 minutes until smooth.
Add shredded Gruyère and Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and creamy.
Step 4: Cook the Fusilli
Boil fusilli pasta separately according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add cooked fusilli to the slow cooker and stir to coat evenly in the creamy cheese sauce.
Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Pasta
Use freshly shredded Gruyère for smoother melting.
Don’t overcook the pasta—al dente works best.
Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor.
Substitute rotisserie chicken to reduce cook time.
📝 Recipe Notes:
✔ Cheese Tips
Freshly shredded Gruyère melts smoother than pre-shredded cheese.
If Gruyère isn’t available, substitute with Swiss cheese or white cheddar for a similar creamy texture.
Add Parmesan at the end for extra depth of flavor.
✔ Pasta Tips
Cook fusilli al dente to prevent mushy pasta when mixed into the slow cooker.
Short pasta shapes like rotini or penne work well in this creamy chicken pasta recipe.
If adding pasta directly to the slow cooker, monitor closely to avoid overcooking.
✔ Protein Options
Boneless skinless chicken thighs can replace chicken breasts for a juicier result.
Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for an easy weeknight dinner.
✔ Make It Healthier
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
Add spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
Choose whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
✔ Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Add a splash of milk or chicken broth before reheating to restore creaminess.
Freeze without pasta for best texture when reheating.
✔ Flavor Boost Ideas
Add crispy bacon bits for a smoky twist.
Stir in sun-dried tomatoes for a gourmet touch.
Sprinkle fresh thyme or parsley before serving.