Slow Cooker

Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo

4.8 (126 ratings)

This slow cooker chicken alfredo builds its rich, garlicky cream sauce right around the chicken as it cooks low and slow, with cream cheese and parmesan stirred in at the end for that classic velvety texture. Toss it with pasta and dinner is essentially done.

Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo
Prep10 min
Cook4 hr
Total4 hr 10 min
Servings
Calories486 / serving

Why you'll love this recipe

  • Hands-off creamy sauce built right in the slow cooker
  • Cream cheese and parmesan finish it velvety-smooth
  • Great for busy weeknights — set it and forget it
  • Easily doubled for a crowd

Ingredients

Full ingredient list below — check off items as you shop or cook.

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and add the chicken broth, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper.
  2. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and shreds easily.
  3. Remove the chicken, shred or dice it, and set aside.
  4. Whisk the cream cheese into the hot liquid in the slow cooker until smooth, then stir in the heavy cream and parmesan.
  5. Return the chicken to the sauce and stir to combine. Let sit on warm for 5-10 minutes to thicken slightly.
  6. Toss with freshly cooked pasta and garnish with parsley before serving.

Tips for success

  • Softening the cream cheese beforehand helps it melt into the sauce smoothly instead of forming lumps.
  • Cook the pasta separately just before serving so it doesn't overcook or absorb all the sauce sitting in the slow cooker.
  • If the sauce seems thin, let it sit uncovered on the warm setting for a few extra minutes to reduce slightly.
  • A pinch of nutmeg stirred into the cream sauce adds a subtle, classic alfredo depth.

Frequently asked questions

Can I add the pasta directly to the slow cooker?

It's best to cook the pasta separately and toss it in at the end, since pasta cooked directly in the slow cooker often turns mushy.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, though the sauce will be slightly less rich and thick than with heavy cream.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms stirred in at the end are great additions.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories486
Protein34g
Carbs38g
Fat22g
Sodium560mg
Sugar3g

Nutrition values are estimates and will vary based on exact ingredients and brands used.

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