© Original recipe by The Recipe Nest ©
Easy Crockpot Chicken Alfredo: Perfect for Cozy Weeknights 🍝🧄✨
1. Introduction
Are you craving a creamy, comforting pasta dish but want to minimize the time spent in the kitchen? Crockpot Chicken Alfredo, also known as Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo or Easy Chicken Alfredo, is the ultimate solution for busy weeknights. This effortless recipes combines tender chicken, luscious Alfredo sauce, and pasta cooked to perfection all in one slow cooker, making it the ideal Crockpot Pasta Dish. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss.
2. Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups cooked pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
3. Step-by-step Instructions for this Crockpot Chicken Alfredo Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden. This step helps lock in the flavors before slow cooking.
Step 2: Layer Ingredients in the Crockpot
Place the seared chicken breasts at the bottom of your Crockpot. Add minced garlic, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Cover and set to low heat.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken Alfredo
Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be tender and infused with the creamy sauce.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the sauce.
Step 5: Prepare and Add Pasta
Cook your pasta according to package instructions. Drain and add to the crockpot, mixing well with the Alfredo sauce and shredded chicken.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with your favorite side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
4. Storage Tips and Leftover Ideas
Store leftover Crockpot Chicken Alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
To keep the pasta from drying out, consider adding a little extra cream or broth when reheating.
5. Serving Suggestions
Pair this creamy pasta dish with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with slices of warm garlic bread or a side of steamed broccoli.
Looking for more delicious pasta ideas? Check out Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet for another crowd-pleasing recipe.
6. Tips to Make the Best Crockpot Chicken Alfredo
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for richer flavor.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in a little flour or cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Cook pasta separately to prevent over-softening and then mix in just before serving for the perfect texture.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
7. Common FAQs about Crockpot Chicken Alfredo
Can I use cooked chicken instead of raw?
Yes, you can substitute precooked chicken. Simply add the cooked chicken during the last 30 minutes of cooking to reheat and combine flavors.
What are some substitutions for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or milk combined with a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch for a lighter version. Coconut cream is also a good dairy-free alternative.
How long does this Crockpot Chicken Alfredo take to prepare?
The total cooking time is approximately 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high, making it an easy recipe for busy weeknights.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, substitute vegan cream, nutritional yeast, and plant-based chicken or tofu. Adjust seasonings accordingly for the best flavor.
8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer – Perfect for reheating leftovers or making quick side dishes to accompany your pasta.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – Use for preparing ingredients or making sides easily.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer – Great for grilling chicken or making crispy vegetables.
- KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer – Useful for preparing dough or other cooking prep tasks.
9. Conclusion
Enjoying a creamy, flavorful Crockpot Chicken Alfredo has never been easier. This recipe combines convenience with deliciousness, making it a go-to for weeknights, family gatherings, or meal prep. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a comforting pasta dish on the table in no time. Experiment with add-ins like spinach or mushrooms to customize this recipe to your taste. Happy cooking!
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Easy Crockpot Chicken Alfredo Perfect for Weeknights
A rich, creamy chicken Alfredo cooked slowly in a crockpot, topped with Parmesan and served over pasta.
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the crockpot and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Add minced garlic and heavy cream over the chicken.
- Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until chicken is tender.
- Shred chicken with two forks and stir in Parmesan cheese.
- Cook pasta separately according to package instructions.
- Serve chicken mixture over cooked pasta, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Use fresh Parmesan for best flavor.
- Adjust cream quantity for desired sauce consistency.
- Can add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours on low
- Method: Slow Cook, Combine, Shred, Serve
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 550 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 120mg