There’s something comforting about a recipe that practically cooks itself. Crockpot Chicken Alfredo delivers just that—juicy chicken, tender pasta, and a creamy, garlicky sauce all made in one pot. No standing over the stove, no complicated steps. This Italian-American favorite gets an upgrade with your slow cooker, making it weeknight-friendly while still tasting like a restaurant dish. Whether you’re craving a cozy family dinner or need a dish that impresses guests with minimal effort, this slow-cooked Alfredo checks all the boxes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why Crockpot Chicken Alfredo deserves a spot in your rotation:
- Easy cleanup – One pot handles everything, even the pasta.
- Rich flavor – Garlic, cream, and Parmesan create a sauce that clings to every bite.
- Hands-off cooking – Toss in your ingredients, and let the crockpot work.
- Family-friendly – Comfort food that both kids and adults devour.
The Story Behind Crockpot Chicken Alfredo
This slow-cooker version is a modern twist on a timeless dish:
- Roman beginnings: Alfredo sauce first appeared in Rome in the early 1900s.
- American touch: U.S. versions add cream for a richer, heartier sauce.
- Crockpot convenience: Adapted for busy kitchens, it cooks while you work.
- Universally loved: Pasta, chicken, and creamy sauce—what’s not to enjoy?
Key Ingredients in Crockpot Chicken Alfredo
- Chicken breasts – Boneless and skinless, the protein centerpiece.
- Chicken broth – Keeps the chicken moist and builds savory depth.
- Heavy cream – Brings richness and that silky Alfredo texture.
- Garlic – Four cloves for bold, fragrant flavor.
- Italian seasoning – A balanced mix of herbs that complements the sauce.
- Pasta – Penne or rotini, sturdy enough to cook in the sauce.
- Parmesan cheese – Salty, nutty, and the secret to creamy thickness.
- Fresh parsley – A bright, fresh garnish to balance the richness.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Alfredo
Follow these easy steps for perfect results:
- Season the chicken – Lay boneless chicken breasts in the crockpot. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Scatter minced garlic on top.
- Add liquids – Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Don’t worry if the chicken isn’t fully submerged.
- Cook low and slow – Cover and cook on low for 5 hours, or high for 2½ hours, until chicken is tender.
- Add pasta – Stir in uncooked penne, making sure it’s covered by liquid. Cook on low for 1 more hour, or high for 30 minutes.
- Shred the chicken – Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return to the crockpot.
- Finish the sauce – Stir in Parmesan until smooth and creamy.
- Rest and thicken – Let sit a few minutes for the sauce to tighten up.
- Garnish and serve – Sprinkle with fresh parsley and enjoy warm.
Crockpot Chicken Alfredo Tips and Twists
- Stir pasta halfway through so it cooks evenly.
- For a creamier sauce, add 2 oz cream cheese with the Parmesan.
- Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoother than pre-shredded.
- If sauce gets too thick, splash in extra broth or milk.
- Avoid overcooking pasta—it softens quickly in a crockpot.
Fun twists:
- Swap penne for rotini or egg noodles.
- Add steamed broccoli or spinach at the end for extra color.
- Try smoked paprika or Cajun seasoning for a flavor kick.
Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips
Here’s how to keep your Crockpot Chicken Alfredo delicious:
- Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk.
- Make-Ahead: Cook the chicken and sauce, then add fresh pasta right before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Garlic bread to mop up the sauce.
- Roasted broccoli and carrots for color and crunch.
- A crisp side salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through richness.
- Chilled white wine or sparkling water for balance.
- Fruit desserts like Strawberry Shortcake for a light finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken? Yes, stir in cooked chicken at the end.
What if my pasta isn’t fully cooked? Give it an extra 10 minutes, stirring often.
Can I freeze it? The sauce freezes well, but pasta does not—freeze chicken and sauce only.
Can I use half-and-half? Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Add cream cheese to thicken.
What veggies go well? Broccoli, peas, or spinach blend perfectly with the creamy sauce.
Enjoy Your Crockpot Chicken Alfredo
This Crockpot Chicken Alfredo is creamy, satisfying, and incredibly simple. With just a handful of pantry staples, you’ll have a family-friendly dinner that tastes like it came from your favorite Italian restaurant. The pasta cooks right in the sauce, soaking up every bit of garlicky, cheesy goodness. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll turn to again and again when you want a no-fuss meal that still feels special.
Explore More Recipes
Round out your meal or explore more cozy favorites from Abby’s Recipes:
- For another creamy pasta night, try Chicken Alfredo Lasagna.
- Pair with a fresh side like Grilled Vegetables.
- Need a quick starter? Quick Cheddar Bay Biscuits are the perfect match.
- End on a sweet note with Best Carrot Cake Cookies.
Crockpot Chicken Alfredo | Easy Creamy Pasta Dinner
Ingredients
- 3 chicken breasts boneless, skinless
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 8 ounces penne or rotini pasta uncooked
- 1½ cups Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the crockpot and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Scatter minced garlic over the chicken, then pour in chicken broth and heavy cream.
- Cover and cook on low for 5 hours or high for 2½ hours until chicken is tender.
- Stir in uncooked pasta, ensuring it’s submerged in liquid. Cook on low for 1 hour or high for 30 minutes.
- Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return to the crockpot.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until sauce is creamy.
- Let rest for 5 minutes to thicken, then garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Calories: 640
Protein: 45g
Fat: 34g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 780mg