© Original recipe by The Spoon Studio ©
Easy Crockpot Chicken Alfredo for Busy Weeknights 🍝🧄✨
1. Introduction
Looking for a simple and delicious dinner idea that comes together effortlessly after a long day? This Crockpot Chicken Alfredo recipe is your answer! Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy crockpot chicken alfredo leverages the slow cooker to produce tender, flavorful chicken combined with rich, cheesy sauce. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook, this slow cooker chicken pasta recipe will become a staple in your meal rotation. The beauty of this dish is that you can prepare it in advance, and it practically cooks itself while you tend to other evening chores.
2. Ingredients for This Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Recipe
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups heavy cream or half-and-half for a lighter version
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 12 oz fettuccine or your favorite pasta (add later)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional: You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor. For more pasta ideas, check out our creamy parmesan spinach and mushroom pasta.
3. Step-by-Step: How to Make the Perfect Crockpot Chicken Alfredo
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Drizzle with olive oil to enhance browning and flavor. Place the chicken at the bottom of your crockpot.
Step 2: Add the Cream and Garlic
Pour the heavy cream over the chicken, then sprinkle in the minced garlic. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and mix well into the creamy sauce.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta Separately
While the chicken mixture simmers, cook the pasta separately according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Add the cooked pasta to the crockpot and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Let it cook for another 10 minutes on low, allowing the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning as desired.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Plate the cheesy chicken alfredo and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy your quick and comforting meal!
4. Tips for Making the Best Slow Cooker Chicken Pasta
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the richest flavor.
- Feel free to substitute the heavy cream with almond milk or a lighter alternative for a healthier take.
- Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms during the last hour of cooking for added flavor and nutrition.
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked and shredded properly to evenly distribute flavors.
5. Storage Tips for Leftovers
Leftover cheesy chicken alfredo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if necessary. For longer storage, consider freezing in portions for up to 2 months.
6. Serving Suggestions and Variations
This slow cooker chicken pasta is incredibly versatile. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For a spicy kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top. You might also try adding cooked broccoli or spinach during the final cooking stages for extra greens and color.
Looking to explore more quick and tasty dinner ideas? Check out our garlic parmesan chicken skewers for another delicious option.
7. FAQs About Crockpot Chicken Alfredo
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work well and can add even more flavor and moisture. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.
Is there a keto or low-carb version of this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute some of the pasta with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles to make it low-carb. Use heavy cream and plenty of cheese for the cheesy sauce.
How long does it take to prepare this crockpot chicken alfredo?
The hands-on prep time is approximately 10-15 minutes. The slow cooker does most of the work with a cook time of around 3-6 hours, depending on your settings.
Can I add other ingredients like vegetables or bacon?
Definitely! Vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be added during cooking. Crispy bacon bits can be sprinkled on top just before serving for extra flavor.
8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — Perfect for crispy toppings or side dishes to complement your pasta.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — Ensure your cookware is top-quality for prepping ingredients and cooking pasta efficiently.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer — Ideal for grilling chicken or preparing quick side dishes to serve alongside your chicken alfredo.
9. Conclusion
With this easy crockpot chicken alfredo recipe, dinnertime becomes a stress-free affair without sacrificing flavor or comfort. The slow cooker does all the work, resulting in tender chicken and a luscious, cheesy sauce that everyone will love. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a hearty meal on the table quickly, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. So, gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort!
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Easy Crockpot Chicken Alfredo for Busy Weeknights
A creamy and cheesy slow cooker chicken Alfredo, loaded with tender chicken pieces and rich sauce, ideal for a quick family dinner.
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 16 ounces (1 pound) fettuccine pasta
- 4 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Pour heavy cream over the chicken and cook on low for 6 hours.
- Shred the cooked chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks.
- Cook fettuccine according to package instructions and drain.
- Add cooked pasta to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the sauce and chicken.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- For a thicker sauce, cook on high for an additional 30 minutes or add a bit of Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 550 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 125mg