Slow-Cooker Italian Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Slow-Cooker Italian Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a comforting and creamy dish that combines tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta for an easy, hearty meal. Ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this recipe offers a velvety texture and rich Italian flavors with minimal hands-on time.
- Author: Gloria
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 to 4 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes to 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts, lean and tender
- 3 cups Alfredo sauce (jarred or homemade, thick consistency preferred)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or rotini recommended)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to build a flavorful foundation.
- Layer Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour in the Alfredo sauce and chicken broth carefully to avoid washing away the seasonings. Evenly scatter the uncooked pasta on top.
- Cook on Low: Set slow cooker to low and cook for 3 to 4 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender and the pasta to absorb the creamy sauce without turning mushy.
- Add Cheese and Garnish: About 20 minutes before serving, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and gently stir to melt and enrich the sauce. Finish by adding fresh parsley for color and brightness.
Notes
- Use thick Alfredo sauce to prevent the dish from becoming watery.
- Do not overcook the pasta; check early if possible to avoid mushiness.
- Layer chicken on the bottom and pasta on top for optimal cooking and flavor absorption.
- Cook on low heat to ensure creamy texture and tender chicken.
- Stir gently when adding cheese to maintain a smooth sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: slow cooker, Italian chicken alfredo, creamy pasta, easy dinner, weeknight meal, comfort food