There’s something about Alfredo sauce that feels comforting and satisfying. It’s creamy, rich, and flavorful, making it one of those dishes everyone in my house gets excited about. But let’s be honest—traditional Alfredo can take time and effort to pull together. That’s why I started making this crockpot chicken Alfredo. It gives me all the flavor I love without being tied to the stove.
I first tried this recipe on a hectic weeknight when I needed dinner to pretty much cook itself. I threw a few simple ingredients into the crockpot and hoped for the best. When dinner was ready, I couldn’t believe how creamy and flavorful it turned out. My family loved it, and it’s been a regular in our meal rotation ever since.
| Servings | Total |
| 6 | 5hrs 15mins |
Where Did You Learn This Recipe?
This recipe came together after a lot of experimenting. I’ve always loved Alfredo sauce but didn’t always have the time to make it from scratch. I started by adapting a classic stovetop Alfredo recipe to work in the slow cooker. After a few tries (and some learning moments!), I finally found the right balance of creaminess and flavor.
I also took inspiration from family dinners growing up. My mom loved creamy pasta dishes, and while she didn’t have a crockpot back then, I like to think she’d approve of this modern twist.
Why Crockpot Chicken Alfredo?
Crockpot chicken Alfredo is one of those meals that’s perfect for so many occasions. It’s easy enough for a busy weeknight but feels special enough for a weekend dinner. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, and the result is tender, flavorful chicken in a rich, creamy sauce that tastes like you spent hours making it.
It’s also versatile. You can keep it simple with just pasta and chicken, or dress it up with veggies like broccoli or mushrooms. Either way, it’s a dish that never disappoints.
What Is Crockpot Chicken Alfredo Made Of?
This dish comes together with a few simple ingredients:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best.
- Pasta: Fettuccine is traditional, but you can use any pasta you like.
- Cream Cheese: Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: For that classic Alfredo flavor.
- Heavy Cream: The base of the sauce.
- Butter and Garlic: For depth of flavor.
- Chicken Broth: Helps cook the chicken and adds flavor to the sauce.
What to Have with Crockpot Chicken Alfredo
This dish is hearty and satisfying on its own, but a few simple sides can round out the meal:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the Alfredo.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans pair nicely with the dish.
- Roasted Mushrooms: For an earthy, flavorful side.
Is Crockpot Chicken Alfredo Healthy?
While this recipe is indulgent, there are ways to make it a bit lighter. You can use reduced-fat cream cheese, half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or even swap out some of the pasta for spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash. Pairing it with a side of vegetables also helps balance the richness.
Kitchen Equipment
Here’s what you’ll need:
- A crockpot (slow cooker)
- A cutting board and knife for prepping ingredients
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A whisk or spoon for mixing the sauce
- A large pot for cooking the pasta
Ingredients
For the Chicken Alfredo:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 lb fettuccine or pasta of choice
Optional Add-Ins:
- 2 cups steamed broccoli
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes for heat
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot
- Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Add the chicken broth, minced garlic, butter, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it with two forks. Set it aside.
Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce
- Add the cream cheese, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese to the crockpot.
- Whisk the mixture until smooth, letting the residual heat melt the cheese.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
- While the sauce is coming together, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 6: Combine Everything
- Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to coat it in the Alfredo sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta to the crockpot and toss until evenly coated.
Step 7: Serve
- Transfer the chicken Alfredo to serving bowls or plates.
- Top with extra Parmesan cheese and optional red pepper flakes. Enjoy!
Tips
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: It melts better and gives the sauce a smoother texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly undercook it before adding it to the sauce, as it will absorb some of the liquid.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid the sauce separating.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken. Add it to the crockpot in the last hour of cooking to heat through.
Can I freeze this dish?
Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well as they tend to separate. If you want to freeze it, do so without the sauce and add fresh sauce when reheating.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, spaghetti, or any pasta you have on hand will work.
How do I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta, and make sure your Parmesan cheese is certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
Crockpot chicken Alfredo is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table. It’s creamy, comforting, and so easy to make thanks to the slow cooker. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting friends, or just treating yourself to something indulgent, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Give it a try—you might find yourself making it as often as I do!
MORE RECIPES
Crockpot Chicken Alfredo Recipe
Equipment
- A crockpot (slow cooker)
- A cutting board and knife for prepping ingredients
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A whisk or spoon for mixing the sauce
- A large pot for cooking the pasta
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 lb fettuccine or pasta of choice
- 2 cups steamed broccoli
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Add the chicken broth, minced garlic, butter, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it with two forks. Set it aside.
- Add the cream cheese, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese to the crockpot.
- Whisk the mixture until smooth, letting the residual heat melt the cheese.
- While the sauce is coming together, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to coat it in the Alfredo sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta to the crockpot and toss until evenly coated.
- Transfer the chicken Alfredo to serving bowls or plates.
- Top with extra Parmesan cheese and optional red pepper flakes. Enjoy!