Slow Cooker
Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo
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.
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
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and add the chicken broth, garlic, Italian seasoning, 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 shreds easily.
- Remove the chicken, shred or dice it, and set aside.
- Whisk the cream cheese into the hot liquid in the slow cooker until smooth, then stir in the heavy cream and parmesan.
- Return the chicken to the sauce and stir to combine. Let sit on warm for 5-10 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Toss with freshly cooked pasta and garnish with parsley before serving.
How to tell it's done
The chicken is ready when it reaches 165°F (74°C) and pulls apart with a fork. Breasts can turn dry and stringy if they cook far beyond that, so check at the earliest time given, especially in slow cookers that run hot. The finished sauce should coat the back of a spoon, and it will thicken further when you toss it with the hot pasta.
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.
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Cream cheese: full-fat cream cheese melts smoothest. Cut it into cubes and let it sit at room temperature while the chicken cooks.
- Parmesan: freshly grated parmesan melts much more smoothly than pre-shredded or canned. Add it gradually, stirring between additions.
- Chicken thighs: boneless thighs give juicier, more tender chicken over a long cook and are harder to overcook.
- Pasta water: save 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining. It's the best way to loosen a sauce that's too thick.
Storage & reheating
Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Ideally, store the sauce and pasta separately, because the pasta absorbs sauce overnight. Reheat on the stove over low heat with a splash of milk or broth, stirring until the sauce is creamy again. High heat can make it separate.
Make ahead & freezing
Cook the chicken in the broth and seasonings a day ahead and refrigerate it with its liquid. On the night you serve it, reheat it, then whisk in the cream cheese, cream and parmesan. Cream sauces don't freeze well, but the cooked chicken in broth freezes for up to 3 months.
What to serve with it
Steamed or roasted broccoli is a classic addition. Stir it right in or serve it alongside. A crisp Caesar or green salad and garlic bread round out the meal.
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)
| Calories | 486 |
| Protein | 34g |
| Carbs | 38g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Sodium | 560mg |
| Sugar | 3g |
Nutrition values are estimates calculated from the ingredient list and will vary with the exact brands and portion sizes you use.
More in: Slow Cooker Chicken Recipes Chicken Pasta & Casseroles
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