Save Discover the ease and comfort of a Creamy Chicken Alfredo Slow-Cooker Dump Meal, perfect for busy weeknights. This rich, Italian-American dish brings tender chicken breasts simmered in a velvety Alfredo sauce infused with garlic, Parmesan, and aromatic Italian herbs. Simply combine the ingredients, let your slow cooker do the work, and enjoy a flavorful homemade meal with minimal effort.
Save This dish brings together the convenience of slow cooking with classic Italian flavors. The combination of heavy cream, Parmesan, and cream cheese creates a luscious sauce that complements the delicate chicken perfectly. Whether you’re a slow cooker pro or trying it for the first time, this recipe is designed to keep things simple without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 700 g)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 cup (150 g) frozen peas (optional)
- 2 cups (250 g) sliced fresh mushrooms (optional)
- 2 cups (480 ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (240 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup (100 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 12 oz (340 g) fettuccine or linguine, cooked according to package instructions
Instructions
- 1. Arrange chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- 2. Scatter minced garlic and chopped onion (if using) over the chicken.
- 3. Add mushrooms and peas, if desired.
- 4. In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan, cream cheese, butter, salt, pepper, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes until mostly smooth.
- 5. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker.
- 6. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 7 hours, until the chicken is very tender.
- 7. Remove the chicken, shred or slice as desired, and return to the sauce. Stir to combine.
- 8. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- 9. Serve hot over cooked pasta. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley, if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Prepare all ingredients ahead of time to make the dump-and-go process even smoother. Choose your preferred slow cooker setting based on your schedule — high for faster results or low for more tender flavors. For best results, avoid opening the slow cooker during cooking to maintain heat and moisture.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use Neufchâtel cheese instead of cream cheese. Add baby spinach in the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra greens. Swap out the pasta for cooked gnocchi or zucchini noodles for a gluten-free or lower-carb option.
Serviervorschläge
This creamy Alfredo is delightful served over fettuccine or linguine, topped with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley. Pair it with a crisp green salad and garlic bread to round out the meal beautifully.
Save Enjoy this hassle-free, restaurant-quality Creamy Chicken Alfredo that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. Its comforting creaminess paired with tender chicken makes it a beloved staple you can confidently prepare any day of the week.
Kitchen Q&A
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance and refrigerate. Cook in the slow cooker when ready to serve for fresh flavors.
- → What pasta pairs best with this dish?
Fettuccine or linguine are ideal to hold the creamy Alfredo sauce; however, gnocchi or zucchini noodles work well as alternatives.
- → Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Yes, mushrooms, peas, or even spinach added during cooking bring extra texture and nutrition.
- → How do I adjust the cooking time?
Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 7 hours to achieve tender, flavorful chicken.
- → Is there a lighter alternative for the cream?
Substituting half-and-half and using Neufchâtel cheese can lighten the sauce while maintaining creaminess.