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Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe: Easy Creamy Slow Cooker Dinner

chicken Alfredo pasta - featured image

This creamy chicken Alfredo pasta is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner made effortlessly in the slow cooker. Tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta come together for a cozy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta, uncooked
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste (about 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper recommended)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, chicken broth, cream cheese, butter, Parmesan, garlic, and Italian seasoning (if using). Whisk until mostly smooth.
  3. Lightly spray the slow cooker insert with nonstick spray (optional). Add chicken pieces and pour the Alfredo sauce mixture over the top. Stir gently to coat.
  4. Cover and cook on Low for 3-4 hours, or until chicken is tender and fully cooked (internal temp 165°F). For faster cooking, use High for 2 hours.
  5. Stir in uncooked pasta, making sure it is fully submerged in the sauce. Add 1/4 cup extra broth or water if needed.
  6. Cover and cook for another 30-40 minutes on Low, stirring once halfway through, until pasta is al dente and sauce is thick and creamy.
  7. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and chopped parsley.

Notes

Add pasta only in the last 30-40 minutes to avoid mushiness. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the creamiest sauce. Stir halfway through pasta cooking to prevent sticking. For a lighter version, substitute half the cream with low-fat milk or use light cream cheese. Add veggies like spinach or mushrooms in the last 30 minutes for extra nutrition. Leftovers thicken in the fridge; add a splash of cream or broth when reheating.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken alfredo, slow cooker, crockpot, creamy pasta, easy dinner, comfort food, family meal, Italian, pasta recipe, weeknight dinner