Crock Pot Chicken Alfredo

Making this recipe in a slow cooker is a game-changer. You'll lay the chicken in the pot, season it up, and then top it with cream cheese and butter. Let that slow-cook magic happen for a few hours, and once you're nearing mealtime, just toss in your pre-cooked pasta, heavy cream, and a good sprinkle of parmesan. Mix it up, give it a little more time to marry together, and you're set!

This easy Italian meal is incredibly versatile. On weeknights, set it up and let the Crock Pot work its magic while you tackle other tasks. When the weekend rolls around, this dish transforms into a quick meal solution that is satisfying and comforting. Need to feed a crowd? Just increase the ingredients, and you have a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish ready to serve that everyone will enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Crockpot chicken Alfredo combines the rich creaminess of the classic dish with satisfying protein from chicken breast. 
• The ingredients in this dish are simple and can be found at any grocery store. 
• Whether you're feeding a large crowd or simply need a comforting weeknight meal on a busy night, this crock pot dinner has got you covered. 

Ingredients You'll Need

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast - Provides a tender, lean protein base that absorbs the flavors.
• Chicken Broth - Adds depth and moisture to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor while keeping the chicken juicy.
• Minced Garlic - Imparts a robust, aromatic kick, which is essential for that classic Alfredo taste.
• Black Pepper - Offers a subtle spicy note, balancing the richness of the other ingredients.
• Onion Powder - Brings a mild, sweet onion undertone, adding complexity to the flavor profile.
• Italian Seasoning - Infuses the dish with a blend of Mediterranean herbs, elevating the overall taste.
• Cream Cheese - Introduces a velvety texture and a tangy flavor note, complementing the creamy sauce.
• Butter - Enhances the richness and smoothness of the dish, allowing for a silkier sauce.
• Heavy Cream - Acts as the foundation for the creamy alfredo sauce, adding a velvety texture. 
• Cooked Penne Pasta - Serves as the perfect vessel for the sauce, its tubular shape capturing every bit of creamy goodness.
• Parmesan Cheese - Melts seamlessly into the mix, adding a sharp, salty bite that perfects the Alfredo experience.

How To Make Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo

Prepare the chicken breast: Trim any excess fat off of the chicken breast. Pat dry with paper towels on both sides. 

Season the chicken: Add chicken to the bottom of a 6-quart Crockpot and pour chicken broth over the top.

Sprinkle garlic, black pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning over the chicken. Place the cream cheese and butter on top.

Cover and cook: Add the lid to the top and cook on HIGH for 2½-3½ hours or LOW for 5-6 hours.

Prepare the penne pasta: Cook pasta to al dente per directions on the package. Drain and set aside.

Assemble the dish: Add heavy cream, penne pasta, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined and cook for an additional 20 minutes. Serve while hot and garnish with fresh chopped parsley and freshly grated parmesan cheese. Enjoy! 

Recipe Tips

• Opt for fresh over frozen chicken breasts, as they tend to cook more evenly and absorb flavors better in the Crock Pot.
• For added depth of flavor, brown the chicken briefly in a skillet before placing it in the Crock Pot.
• To ensure your penne remains al dente in the dish, slightly undercook it by 1-2 minutes when boiling, as it will continue to cook in the Alfredo sauce.
• Allow your heavy cream to reach room temperature before adding; this prevents curdling and ensures a smoother sauce.
• Invest in freshly grated parmesan over pre-packaged, as the fresh cheese will melt better and offer a richer flavor.
• If your sauce feels too thick, you can thin it out with a splash of chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.

Variations

• For a seafood twist, replace chicken with shrimp or scallops, ensuring that the cooking time is adjusted as seafood cooks faster.
• Omit the chicken and add a medley of vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian version.
• You can swap out the chicken for beef or pork.
• Swap out penne for fettuccine or linguine, which also pair wonderfully with Alfredo sauce and offer a different texture.
• Experiment with adding other cheeses, like mozzarella or fontina, for a unique flavor and an even creamier texture.
• If you want to simplify the recipe, you can leave out the heavy cream and cream cheese. Then, just add your favorite Alfredo jar sauce.
• Introduce a kick with red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for those who appreciate a bit of heat in their dishes.
• Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the slow cooker, removing them before serving for an added layer of flavor.
• For a slightly lighter dish, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream, adjusting the consistency as needed.
• Use gluten-free pasta varieties to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Storing & Freezing

Storing: Transfer to an airtight container once it has cooled to room temperature. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to refresh the sauce, or microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

Freezing: If you're planning to freeze your pasta, it's best to do so without the pasta. Pour the sauce and chicken into a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When you're ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and adding cooked pasta. 

FAQ

More Crock Pot Chicken Pasta Recipes

• Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
• Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta
• Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta
• Crock Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
• Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken Orzo

If you loved this recipe. Please leave it a 5 Star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating below. Then follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest! Share your favorite recipes or ask questions in my Facebook Group.