Wada signed a minor-league contract with invitation to spring training with the Chicago Cubs on January 24, 2014, but he was released on March 23, 2014. He re-signed with the Cubs on another minor league contract the next day. His contract was selected from the Triple-A Iowa Cubs on June 22, and he was optioned to Iowa. He was recalled by the Cubs on July 8, and started the second game of that day's doubleheader against the Cincinnati Reds.
In 2014 Wada compiled a 4-4 record and a 3.25 ERA. His strongest outing came on August 24, 2014 when he took a no-hitter into the seventh inning against the Baltimore Orioles. He was removed from the game after giving up a solo home run, the only hit he allowed in the contest. The Cubs won 2-1, and Wada was credited with the win. He was signed to a one-year $4 million contract after the season. Wada made seven starts for the Cubs during May and June 2015 before suffering a shoulder injury, he returned in September but pitched out of the bullpen.