Save Discover the ease and comfort of a classic Italian-American favorite with this Creamy Chicken Alfredo Slow-Cooker Dump Meal. Tender chicken breasts simmer in a luscious, garlicky Alfredo sauce enriched with parmesan and Italian herbs, making it a perfect solution for busy weeknights. Simply add ingredients to your slow cooker, let it gently bubble away, and come home to a comforting, rich dinner that everyone will love.
Save Slow cooking blends the flavors beautifully, ensuring the chicken remains juicy while the Alfredo sauce develops a velvety texture. Whether you prefer mushrooms and peas or keep it simple, this recipe delivers a comforting meal without fuss.
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 (for serving)
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 ingredients ahead by chopping garlic and onion to save time. Use high or low slow cooker settings depending on your schedule and make sure to stir the sauce well after shredding the chicken for best flavor distribution.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a lighter alternative, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use Neufchâtel cheese instead of regular cream cheese. Add baby spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra greens. You can also substitute cooked gnocchi or zucchini noodles in place of the pasta.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this creamy Chicken Alfredo over freshly cooked fettuccine or linguine. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal that feels indulgent yet approachable.
Save This Creamy Chicken Alfredo is a foolproof slow cooker meal that brings the warmth of Italian-American comfort food into your home with minimal effort. Perfect for those days when you want a delicious dinner waiting for you, it’s guaranteed to satisfy and impress family and friends alike.
Kitchen Help
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, mushrooms and peas are great additions that can be cooked along with the chicken to add texture and flavor.
- → What pasta types work best for serving?
Fettuccine and linguine are ideal choices, but gnocchi or zucchini noodles can be used as alternatives.
- → How can I make this dish lighter?
Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use Neufchâtel cheese instead of cream cheese for a lighter sauce.
- → Is it possible to cook this on low heat?
Yes, cooking on low for about 7 hours results in tender, flavorful chicken with well-developed sauce.
- → What seasonings enhance the flavor?
Italian herbs, garlic, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes bring depth and a subtle kick to the creamy sauce.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
It can be prepped and dumped into the slow cooker earlier, making it convenient for busy schedules.