This Crockpot Chicken Alfredo recipe is the ultimate comfort food that’s creamy with tender, juicy chicken simmered in a luscious homemade Alfredo sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work while you enjoy your day. The result is a rich and flavorful meal that the whole family will love.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll love this Crockpot Chicken Alfredo because it’s not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly easy to make. The beauty of using a slow cooker lies in its “set it and forget it” nature, allowing you to go on with your day while your meal cooks to perfection. The creamy Alfredo sauce envelops the chicken, creating a luscious dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. Plus, it fits well into various lifestyles by being adaptable for gluten-free pasta or dairy-free alternatives, making it a versatile choice for everyone at the table.
Tips and Tricks
- Sear the Chicken: For an extra layer of flavor, consider searing the chicken in a hot skillet before adding it to the crockpot. This step enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parmesan cheese will elevate the sauce’s flavor. Dried herbs can work in a pinch, but fresh is always best.
- Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Pasta Cooking: Try adding uncooked pasta directly to the pot during the last hour of cooking for a one-pot meal. Just ensure you have enough liquid to cook the pasta.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cook the chicken just until it is tender; overcooking can lead to dry meat. Aim for 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high.
- Ignoring Liquid Levels: Ensure that there’s enough liquid in the crockpot. If it looks too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk.
- Not Adjusting Seasonings: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasonings as needed. The cheese can sometimes mask the flavors, so a little extra salt or pepper may be necessary.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the chicken and Alfredo sauce a day in advance. Simply season and marinate the chicken in the sauce overnight in the refrigerator. This will deepen the flavors. Alternatively, you can chop your garlic and herbs and keep them stored in an airtight container. The cooked dish can be stored in the fridge for about 3-4 days, making it perfect for meal prepping!
Recipe Variations
- Vegetable Alfredo: Add some steamed broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers to the pot for added nutrition and flavor.
- Herbed Chicken Alfredo: Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme to give your dish a fresh twist.
- Creamy Mushroom Sauce: Toss in some sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor, mixing them in with the chicken and sauce.
How to Serve
Serve your Crockpot Chicken Alfredo over a bed of fettuccine or your favorite pasta. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil and a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese for a pop of color and flavor. A side of garlic bread and a simple green salad can complete the meal beautifully.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this dish with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a light-bodied red such as Pinot Noir. For a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon works wonderfully. As for side dishes, a classic Caesar salad or roasted vegetables complement the rich flavors of the Alfredo sauce, while a light dessert like panna cotta or sorbet can provide a perfect ending to your meal.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the Chicken Alfredo in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker (crockpot)
- Skillet (optional for searing chicken)
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can adapt this recipe for stovetop cooking, following similar steps but reducing the cooking time significantly.
Dietary Adaptations
For a vegan version, substitute chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas and use a plant-based cream and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. For a gluten-free option, swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta. Those with dairy intolerance can easily switch to almond milk or coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the winter months, consider using root vegetables like carrots or parsnips as an addition to the dish to add warmth and heartiness. In summer, fresh zucchini or cherry tomatoes can brighten the flavors and add a seasonal touch.
Cost Breakdown
The estimated cost for this dish is around $10-15, serving approximately 4-6 people. Using store-brand products and buying chicken in bulk can help keep costs down. Consider using frozen vegetables or pasta for additional savings.
Kitchen Hacks
- To save time on dicing garlic, smash the cloves with the flat side of a knife before chopping. This releases the oils and flavors more efficiently.
- Use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup — no scrubbing needed!
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you can use frozen chicken in the crockpot; just increase the cooking time by about 30 minutes.
- How can I make this dish spicier? Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for heat.
- What type of pasta works best? Fettuccine is traditional for Alfredo, but any pasta shape can work.
How To Make crockpot chicken alfredo recipe
Crockpot Chicken Alfredo
This Crockpot Chicken Alfredo recipe is the ultimate comfort food that’s creamy with tender, juicy chicken simmered in a luscious homemade Alfredo sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a skillet, sear the chicken breasts over medium-high heat until golden brown on both sides (optional).
- Place the seared chicken in the crockpot, and add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the heavy cream and chicken broth over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- During the last hour, add uncooked pasta directly to the sauce, stirring occasionally. Ensure there is enough liquid; add more broth or cream if necessary.
- Once the pasta is cooked to al dente, serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 731Total Fat 35gSaturated Fat 19gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 12gCholesterol 235mgSodium 902mgCarbohydrates 33gFiber 2gSugar 3gProtein 67g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Chicken Alfredo recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and satisfaction to busy lives. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s perfect for those who want a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try, and let the slow cooker work its magic while you kick back and enjoy a lovely evening with family or friends!