If you’re looking for a cozy, satisfying meal that practically cooks itself, then you’re going to adore this Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Mac Recipe. I absolutely love this because it combines tender chicken, cheesy macaroni, and hearty chili flavors all in one pot—making weeknights way more relaxed and delicious. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become one of your go-to slow cooker meals that your family goes crazy for!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hands-Off Cooking: You can literally dump everything in and let your slow cooker work its magic while you go about your day.
Comfort Food Vibes: This recipe has that perfect balance of cheesy, hearty, and spicy flavors that warm you up instantly.
Great for Busy Weeknights: It’s easy to prep, uses pantry staples, and fills everyone up with minimal effort.
Family Favorite: I’ve watched picky eaters and chili-lovers both enjoy this, which is pretty amazing!

The image shows a close-up of a soup filled with small elbow macaroni pasta, beans, and shredded pieces of light-colored meat in a thin reddish-orange broth. The soup also has small bits of red and green vegetables or herbs scattered throughout. The liquid looks smooth and slightly shiny, with the ingredients evenly mixed. The detailed texture of the pasta and beans contrasts with the soft meat and clear broth. The background has a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love about this Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Mac Recipe is how the ingredients are simple yet pack so much flavor. When shopping, look for good-quality chicken and beans—no need for fancy brands, but better beans mean better texture!

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Thighs stay juicy and tender, but breasts work fine if you prefer leaner meat.
Chicken broth: Adds savory depth; homemade or store-bought both work.
Onion: Diced finely to meld into the chili base seamlessly.
Garlic powder: I find it helps evenly spread garlic flavor throughout the pot without overpowering.
Cumin: Key for that warm chili aroma you’ll love.
Chili powder: Adjust this to your spice preference—start mild if you’re unsure!
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to make everything sing.
Petite diced tomatoes: Adds freshness and slight acidity.
Pinto chili beans and kidney chili beans (with juice): The beans give the chili heartiness and create a nice texture contrast.
Dry macaroni noodles: Classic pasta shape that holds sauce beautifully.
Tomato sauce: Enriches the chili base and makes it saucier.
Grated sharp cheddar cheese: The gooey, melty finish that really makes this dish irresistible.
Dried parsley: Adds a mild herbaceous note to brighten things up at the end.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love to mix things up with this Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Mac Recipe depending on the season or what I have on hand. Feel free to personalize it—you’ll find it easy to swap ingredients without losing that comforting, hearty feel.

Spicy Kick: I once added a chopped jalapeño and a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky heat that my kids actually loved!
Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and double up on beans and veggies like bell peppers or zucchini; just increase the broth slightly.
Cheese Swap: I’ve used pepper jack or mozzarella for a fun twist on flavor and meltiness.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and make sure your broth and canned goods are labeled gluten-free; no one will miss the wheat!

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Mac Recipe

Step 1: Build Your Flavor Base

Start by adding the chicken thighs or breasts right into your slow cooker. Then toss in the chicken broth, diced onion, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, petite diced tomatoes, and both cans of chili beans with their juice. This is where all those amazing chili flavors start to marry. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours—you’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is tender and the flavors are deeply blended.

Step 2: Add the Pasta and Tomato Sauce

Next, carefully remove the chicken to a cutting board—you’ll shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces. Add the uncooked macaroni noodles and tomato sauce into the slow cooker. Then stir the shredded chicken back into the pot. Cover it again and crank the heat to high for 30 more minutes, or until the macaroni is tender but not mushy. This two-stage cooking keeps your noodles perfectly cooked inside the chili.

Step 3: Stir in Cheese and Herbs

Once the pasta is done, toss in the grated sharp cheddar cheese and sprinkle with dried parsley. Give everything a good stir so the cheese melts into a creamy, cheesy sauce. Taste and adjust seasonings—sometimes I add a pinch more salt, pepper, or chili powder depending on my mood. Then it’s ready to serve and enjoy!

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Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Mac Recipe

Use Thighs for Juicier Chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out over hours in the slow cooker, but thighs stay tender and juicy.
Don’t Add Pasta Too Early: Adding macaroni in the later stage prevents overcooking and mushiness.
Adjust Seasonings at the End: The slow cook intensifies spices, so wait until the end to tweak salt and chili powder.
Shred Chicken Before Returning: It blends better and makes every bite deliciously tender.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Mac Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a thick macaroni soup served in a white bowl. The soup has visible layers including small elbow macaroni pieces, light brown beans, chunks of red tomatoes, and scrambled yellow eggs all mixed in a slightly thick, orange-brown broth. The textures show a soft and hearty mix of pasta, beans, and vegetables with some herbs sprinkled inside. A black spoon is scooping up some of the soup, revealing the mix of all ingredients. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I love topping my chili mac with a little extra sharp cheddar and a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro or green onions for color and freshness. Sour cream and avocado slices also make for a creamy, cooling element that’s just heavenly.

Side Dishes

This stands strong as a one-pot meal, but for extra veggie power, I like pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli. Cornbread or garlic bread on the side is also amazing for soaking up all the cheesy chili sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For casual gatherings, I sometimes serve the chili mac in mini cast iron skillets or colorful ramekins – it feels special but stays simple. Or, spoon it into toasted bread bowls for a fun twist that everyone loves, especially kids!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge, and it usually keeps well for 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen a bit overnight, making the next-day lunch even better.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. I divide leftovers into portions and freeze in freezer-safe containers. Just skip adding cheese before freezing and add it fresh when reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm slowly on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if it feels thick, and toss in fresh cheese before serving for a creamy finish.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs in the Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Mac Recipe?

Yes, you can! Just know that chicken breasts tend to dry out more in slow cooking, so keep an eye on the cooking time and consider slightly less time or adding a bit more broth to keep them moist.
Do I have to use two types of beans?

Not at all! Using both pinto and kidney beans adds texture and flavor variety, but feel free to use just one type if that’s what you have on hand.
Can I make this recipe on the stove instead of a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the chicken in a large pot, add all ingredients except macaroni and cheese, simmer until chicken is cooked, then add pasta and cook until tender. Stir in cheese at the end—just watch the heat to avoid pasta overcooking.
How can I make this Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Mac Recipe spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, increase chili powder, or add a splash of hot sauce during cooking. Just go slow with spice additions so you can tailor it perfectly to your taste.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chicken Chili Mac Recipe has truly become one of my easiest, most satisfying meals to pull together. Whether you need a comforting dinner after a busy day or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this recipe checks all the boxes. I highly recommend giving it a shot—you’ll love how the flavors develop with minimal effort, and your family will thank you for it. Don’t be surprised if it makes a regular appearance on your meal plan!