Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo: A Hands-Off Delight

Chicken Alfredo is a timeless favorite, known for its rich flavors and comforting texture. Traditionally, it requires constant attention and precise cooking times. However, with the magic of a slow cooker, you can enjoy this beloved dish without sacrificing any of its rich, creamy goodness. This recipe is a game-changer, allowing you to cook both the pasta and chicken to perfection in a single, hands-off process.

## Introduction to Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo

The beauty of slow cooker recipes lies in their ability to simplify meal preparation while maintaining the quality of the dish. This slow cooker chicken Alfredo recipe is no exception. It combines the tender flavors of chicken, the depth of a creamy Alfredo sauce, and the al dente texture of perfectly cooked pasta, all achieved with minimal effort.

Ingredients Needed

To create this masterpiece, you will need the following ingredients:
–

2 1/2 cups heavy cream

: Provides the richness and body to the sauce.
–

1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

: Helps maintain a balanced consistency without making the sauce overly thick.
–

1/4 cup (½ stick) salted butter, cubed

: Adds a touch of savory flavor.
–

1/2 tsp. kosher salt

: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
–

1/2 tsp. black pepper

: Adds a pinch of spice and depth.
–

2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

: Infuses the dish with a subtle but aromatic flavor.
–

12 oz. rigatoni

: Ideal pasta shape for slow cooking as it doesn’t clump or break easily.
–

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ pounds total)

: Provides lean protein that cooks tenderly in the slow cooker.
–

1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese (about 6 ounces), plus more for serving

: Essential for creating a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce.
–

1/4 cup flat-leaf parsley, chopped

: Adds freshness and color to the dish.

Alternative Pasta Options

While

rigatoni

is preferred due to its texture and ability to hold the sauce well, other pasta shapes like

penne

,

bowtie (farfalle)

,

fusilli

, or

cavatappi

can also be used. Keep in mind that cook times might vary slightly depending on the pasta shape.

Using Chicken Thighs

If you prefer a slightly different texture or flavor, you can substitute

chicken breasts

with about 1 1/2 pounds of

boneless skinless chicken thighs

. Thighs will generally result in a more tender and juicy outcome.

Step-by-Step Instructions

To make this dish, follow these simple steps:

1.

Combine Sauce Ingredients and Chicken:

– Add the heavy cream, chicken broth, butter, salt, pepper, garlic, and chicken breasts to a 6- to 8-quart slow cooker. Stir well to combine.
– Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

2.

Prepare the Chicken:

– Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it cool slightly.
– Slice the chicken crosswise into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.

3.

Cook the Pasta:

– Add the rigatoni to the slow cooker and stir to coat the pasta in the sauce. Increase the heat to high.
– Cook, occasionally stirring, until the pasta is tender. This should take about 25 to 30 minutes.

4.

Final Assembly:

– Gently stir in the cooked chicken and Parmesan cheese into the pasta mixture. Ensure everything is well combined.
– Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and chopped parsley.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I Use Other Types of Pasta Besides Rigatoni?

A:

Yes, while rigatoni is ideal for this recipe, other pasta shapes like penne, bowtie, fusilli, or cavatappi can also work well. Just be aware that the cooking time may vary slightly.

Q: Can Chicken Thighs Replace Chicken Breasts?

A:

Absolutely. Use about 1 1/2 pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs as a substitute for breasts. Thighs will make the dish even more tender.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

–

Storage:

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
–

Reheating:

Simply warm the leftovers in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

Enhance your meal with a few simple side dishes:

–

Garlic Knots:

Perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce.
–

Brussels Sprouts:

A simple roasted vegetable side that pairs well with the richness of the pasta.
–

Panzanella Salad:

A fresh salad to balance the meal.

Summary and Conclusion

This slow cooker chicken Alfredo recipe is a testament to the versatility and ease of using a slow cooker in meal preparation. It offers a rich, satisfying meal with minimal effort, perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a comforting dinner without the fuss.