The BEST Chicken Alfredo is rich, creamy, and unbelievably easy to make right in your slow cooker. You get tender shredded chicken, silky Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta all in one pot. It feels fancy, yet it takes just minutes to prep.
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Why This Is The BEST Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo
The BEST Chicken Alfredo stands out because it cooks low and slow, which builds deep flavor without extra work. You simply add everything to the crockpot, then let it do its thing. Meanwhile, you can handle homework, laundry, or just relax.
Ultra Creamy Alfredo Sauce Without Jarred Sauce
First, this recipe skips the jar completely. Instead, heavy cream, butter, cream cheese, and parmesan melt together into a thick, luscious sauce. As a result, every bite tastes rich and homemade.
Also, fresh garlic adds bold flavor that you just cannot get from a bottle. The sauce turns velvety and coats every piece of chicken and pasta beautifully.
Pasta Cooks Right in the Crockpot
Next, the pasta cooks directly in the sauce. That means no extra pot and no draining water. In fact, the pasta absorbs flavor while it softens, which makes The BEST Chicken Alfredo even more delicious.
Because the pasta cooks in the crockpot, cleanup stays simple. And honestly, fewer dishes always make dinner better.
Minimal Prep, Maximum Flavor
You only need about 5 minutes of prep time. Then you toss everything in and walk away. Meanwhile, the slow cooker gently blends the flavors together.
Even though it feels indulgent, the steps stay incredibly simple. That balance makes The BEST Chicken Alfredo perfect for busy families.
Perfect for Busy Weeknights and Family Dinners
After a long day, you want comfort food without stress. Therefore, this recipe saves the night. It serves about 6 people, so it feeds the whole family easily.
If you love cozy crockpot meals, you might also enjoy this Creamy Slow Cooker Crack Potato Soup for another comforting option.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The BEST Chicken Alfredo uses simple, easy to find ingredients. However, when combined, they create bold flavor and creamy texture.
Chicken and Dairy Ingredients
You need 1 pound of raw chicken breast. As it cooks, it becomes tender and easy to shred.
Then you add 4 ounces of cream cheese, 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, and 2½ cups of heavy whipping cream. Together, they create the rich base of The BEST Chicken Alfredo.
Finally, stir in ¾ cup of parmesan cheese for that classic Alfredo finish.
Seasonings and Flavor Boosters
Fresh garlic makes a huge difference, so use 3 cloves minced. Then add 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon ground black pepper.
If you like extra kick, you can also sprinkle in Cajun seasoning. That small twist adds bold flavor without overpowering the creamy sauce.
Pasta Options and Substitutions
Use 8 ounces of uncooked penne pasta. Short pasta works best because it cooks evenly in the slow cooker.
However, you can swap in rotini or rigatoni if needed. Just avoid long noodles since they do not cook as evenly in The BEST Chicken Alfredo.
How to Make The BEST Chicken Alfredo in the Slow Cooker
Making The BEST Chicken Alfredo could not be easier. Still, a few simple steps help you get perfect results every time.
Add Chicken and Sauce Ingredients to the Crockpot
First, place the raw chicken breast in the slow cooker. Then add cubed cream cheese, butter pieces, minced garlic, salt, pepper, chicken broth, and heavy cream.
Make sure the chicken sits mostly covered in liquid. That way, it cooks evenly and stays juicy.
Slow Cook Until the Chicken Is Tender
Next, cover and cook on high for 2 to 3 hours or on low for 4 to 5 hours. Meanwhile, the sauce thickens and becomes rich.
Once the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature and feels tender, move to the next step.
Shred the Chicken
Carefully remove the chicken and place it on a plate. Then use two forks to shred it into bite sized pieces.
After that, return the shredded chicken to the crockpot. Now it soaks up even more flavor from the creamy sauce.
Add Pasta and Parmesan
Next, stir in the uncooked penne pasta and parmesan cheese. This step transforms the dish into The BEST Chicken Alfredo.
Because the pasta cooks directly in the sauce, do not boil it beforehand.
Cook Until Pasta Is Perfectly Tender
Cover again and cook on high for about 35 to 40 minutes. Stir once or twice so the pasta cooks evenly.
Keep an eye on it near the end. As soon as the pasta feels tender, turn off the heat.
Stir, Finish, and Serve
Finally, give everything a good stir. The sauce should look thick and creamy.
Top with extra grated parmesan and chopped greens if you like. Then serve The BEST Chicken Alfredo warm and enjoy every bite.
If you love creative Alfredo dishes, try these Chicken Alfredo Garlic Bread Bowls Recipe for a fun twist.
Expert Tips for Perfect Crockpot Chicken Alfredo
Even though The BEST Chicken Alfredo is simple, a few tips make it even better.
Don’t Pre Boil the Pasta
First, never pre boil the pasta. The crockpot cooks it perfectly in the sauce.
As a result, the pasta absorbs flavor instead of plain water.
How to Avoid Overcooked Pasta
Since slow cookers vary, check the pasta at 30 minutes. Then continue cooking only if needed.
Overcooked pasta can turn soft quickly, so watch closely.
Choosing the Best Parmesan
Freshly grated parmesan melts more smoothly. However, pre grated works fine if that is what you have.
Just make sure you use real parmesan for authentic flavor in The BEST Chicken Alfredo.
Adjusting Sauce Thickness
If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of milk. On the other hand, if it seems thin, let it cook uncovered for a few extra minutes.
Small adjustments help you control the texture easily.
Variations and Add Ins
The BEST Chicken Alfredo tastes amazing as written. Still, you can change it up when you want something new.
Cajun Chicken Alfredo Twist
Add Cajun seasoning before cooking for bold, spicy flavor. Meanwhile, the creamy sauce balances the heat beautifully.
If you love Cajun flavors, you may also enjoy this Creamy Cajun Chicken One Pan Dinner.
Chicken Pieces Instead of Shredded
Instead of shredding, cut the chicken into chunks before cooking. Then skip the shredding step later.
This method gives you hearty bites of chicken throughout The BEST Chicken Alfredo.
Adding Vegetables
You can stir in spinach or steamed broccoli near the end. That way, you add color and texture.
Vegetables also make the dish feel a bit lighter.
Making It Extra Cheesy
For extra richness, add more parmesan or a handful of mozzarella. Then stir until melted.
Cheese lovers will appreciate that gooey finish.
Storage, Reheating, and Freezing Tips
Leftovers taste just as comforting the next day. However, proper storage matters.
How to Store Leftovers
Place cooled The BEST Chicken Alfredo in an airtight container. Then store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keep it tightly sealed so it stays fresh.
Best Way to Reheat Without Drying Out
When reheating, add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. Then warm it slowly in a pan or in the slow cooker.
Stir often so the sauce turns creamy again.
Why Freezing Is Not Recommended
Freezing changes the pasta texture. As a result, it can become mushy once thawed.
Therefore, enjoy The BEST Chicken Alfredo fresh or refrigerated rather than frozen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the secret to good Alfredo?
The secret to good Alfredo is using real butter, heavy cream, and parmesan. Fresh garlic also adds bold flavor. When you let the sauce cook slowly, it turns thick and silky.
What makes chicken alfredo taste better?
Seasoning the chicken well and cooking it gently makes a big difference. In The BEST Chicken Alfredo, the pasta cooks in the sauce, which adds extra flavor.
Why is it called chicken alfredo?
The dish comes from Italian Alfredo sauce made with butter and cheese. Later, cooks added chicken to make it heartier.
What cut of chicken is good for Alfredo?
Boneless skinless chicken breast works great because it shreds easily. However, you can also use chicken thighs for richer flavor.
Other Recipes You May Enjoy
- Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Comfort Dinner
- Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
- Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Salad
Final Thoughts
Why This Will Become a Family Favorite
The BEST Chicken Alfredo brings comfort and ease together in one creamy bowl. Because it cooks in the slow cooker, you save time and effort. Meanwhile, the flavor feels rich and homemade.
Share and Save for Later
If you loved this recipe, save it for your next busy weeknight. Also, follow along for more cozy meals at pinterest so you never miss a new favorite.
The BEST Chicken Alfredo Slow Cooker Recipe
Equipment
- Slow cooker 6 quart recommended
- Mixing spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, raw
- 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 2 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ¾ cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 8 oz uncooked penne pasta
Instructions
- Add chicken breast, cream cheese, butter, garlic, salt, pepper, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for 2 to 3 hours or low for 4 to 5 hours until chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken and shred with two forks. Return shredded chicken to the crockpot.
- Add uncooked penne pasta and parmesan cheese to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine.
- Cook on high for 35 to 40 minutes until pasta is tender. Stir once or twice during cooking. Serve warm with extra parmesan if desired.
