CROCKPOT CHICKEN ALFREDO PASTA turns a busy day into a celebration of creamy comfort; picture tender chicken breasts bathing in a dreamy garlic-parmesan sauce infused with savory broth and a hint of zesty lemon. As the slow cooker hums, warm scents weave through your kitchen, teasing taste buds and summoning smiles. When dinner time arrives, simply stir in al dente penne, finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and dive into steam-kissed bowls of pure joy. Perfect for cozy nights in or easy entertaining, this playful recipe delivers soul-satisfying flavor with almost no effort—and tons of heart.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This CROCKPOT CHICKEN ALFREDO PASTA
- Effortless cooking with minimal prep time.
- Rich and creamy flavor that feels indulgent.
- Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
- One-pot meal means easy cleanup!
- Customizable with your favorite veggies or proteins.
CROCKPOT CHICKEN ALFREDO PASTA
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of a 6-quart crockpot.
- Step 2: Pour the minced garlic, chopped onion, salt, and pepper over the chicken.
- Step 3: Add the chicken broth and cover; cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or on HIGH for 2–3 hours.
- Step 4: Remove the chicken and shred with two forks; return shredded chicken to the crockpot.
- Step 5: Stir in the Alfredo sauce, grated Parmesan, and dry pasta until well combined.
- Step 6: Cover and cook on HIGH for 30–45 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pasta is tender.
- Step 7: Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Fat | 15g |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbs | 50g |
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make your delicious CROCKPOT CHICKEN ALFREDO PASTA!
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts – fresh or thawed
- 3 cups dry penne pasta – uncooked
- 1 jar (15 oz) Alfredo sauce – your favorite brand
- 1½ cups chicken broth – low sodium recommended
- 3 cloves garlic – minced
- ½ cup finely chopped onion – adds flavor
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – for a creamy finish
- 1 teaspoon salt – to taste
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper – for seasoning
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley – for garnish
How to Make CROCKPOT CHICKEN ALFREDO PASTA
This delightful CROCKPOT CHICKEN ALFREDO PASTA is a breeze to prepare! With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cooking time of 4–5 hours on LOW or 2–3 hours on HIGH, you can set it and forget it. Plus, an extra 30–45 minutes on HIGH for the pasta to cook makes this dish a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy days.
Step 1: Place the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of a 6-quart crockpot.
Step 2: Add Seasonings
Pour the minced garlic, chopped onion, salt, and pepper over the chicken.
Step 3: Add Chicken Broth
Add the chicken broth and cover; cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or on HIGH for 2–3 hours.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken and shred with two forks; return shredded chicken to the crockpot.
Step 5: Mix in Alfredo Sauce
Stir in the Alfredo sauce, grated Parmesan, and dry pasta until well combined.
Step 6: Cook the Pasta
Cover and cook on HIGH for 30–45 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pasta is tender.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Main Course |
| Cuisine | Italian |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 240 minutes |
| Extra Time | 45 minutes for pasta to cook |
| Total Time | 300 minutes |
| Dietary | Contains chicken and dairy |
| Serves | 6 |
| Best Served | Hot and creamy with parsley garnish |
Pro Tips for Making CROCKPOT CHICKEN ALFREDO PASTA
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra tenderness.
- Opt for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist.
- Add fresh spinach or broccoli in the last hour for a pop of color and nutrition.
- Stir in cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a creamier sauce.
- Top with freshly grated Parmesan just before serving for a burst of flavor.
How to Serve this CROCKPOT CHICKEN ALFREDO PASTA
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread for dipping.
- Pair with a crisp green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Mix in steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrition.
- Offer a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Serve in bowls with crusty bread on the side for a cozy meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can easily prepare and store your CROCKPOT CHICKEN ALFREDO PASTA:
Storing CROCKPOT CHICKEN ALFREDO PASTA Leftovers
- Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing CROCKPOT CHICKEN ALFREDO PASTA
- Cool the pasta completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating CROCKPOT CHICKEN ALFREDO PASTA
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk for creaminess.
- Stir frequently until heated through.
- Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, if preferred.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. Can I put uncooked pasta in a crockpot?
Yes, you can put uncooked pasta in a crockpot! However, it’s best to add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy. Make sure to stir it well and add enough liquid to ensure it cooks properly and absorbs the flavors of the sauce.
2. Is it okay to put raw chicken in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can put raw chicken in a slow cooker. The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken cooks thoroughly and remains tender. Just make sure to cook it for the recommended time to ensure it’s safe to eat.
3. Can you cook pasta in sauce in a crockpot?
Yes, you can cook pasta in sauce in a crockpot! Just be mindful of the cooking time and add the pasta towards the end of the cooking process to avoid overcooking. This method allows the pasta to absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
4. How to cook chicken pasta in a slow cooker?
To cook chicken pasta in a slow cooker, start by adding your raw chicken, seasonings, and sauce to the pot. Cook on low for several hours until the chicken is tender. Then, add uncooked pasta during the last 30 minutes of cooking, ensuring there’s enough liquid for it to cook properly. Stir well and enjoy your delicious meal!
Final Thoughts
We hope you’re as excited to try this Crockpot Chicken Alfredo Pasta as we are! It’s a simple, comforting dish that brings back memories of family dinners and cozy nights in. So grab your ingredients, set that slow cooker, and let the magic happen. Enjoy every creamy, delicious bite—you deserve it!