Save to Pinterest Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Chicken Alfredo Slow-Cooker Dump Meal. Perfectly suited for busy weeknights, this effortless recipe combines tender chicken breasts simmered to perfection in a velvety Alfredo sauce enriched with garlic, Parmesan, and classic Italian herbs. Simply add the ingredients to your slow cooker, let it work its magic, and come home to a rich, satisfying dinner that tastes like it took hours of skilled preparation.
Save to Pinterest This recipe embraces the convenience of slow cooking without sacrificing flavor or texture. It’s a family-friendly meal that feels indulgent yet comes together with minimal prep. Whether you’re rushing through a hectic day or hosting a casual dinner, this dish impresses every time.
Ingredients
- Meats
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 700 g)
- Vegetables & Aromatics
- 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)
- Sauce & Dairy
- 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
- Seasonings
- 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)
- Pasta (for serving)
- 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
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use Neufchâtel cheese instead of cream cheese. Adding baby spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking is a great way to boost the dish’s nutritional profile and add vibrant color.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily customize this recipe by including or omitting optional vegetables like peas and mushrooms. To accommodate different dietary preferences, substitute cooked gnocchi or zucchini noodles for the pasta, though this will alter the texture. The recipe is not lactose-free or vegan due to the dairy content.
Serviervorschläge
This creamy chicken Alfredo pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and warm garlic bread to round out the meal. Freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan sprinkled on top add an elegant finishing touch.
Save to Pinterest This Creamy Chicken Alfredo Slow-Cooker Dump Meal is an unbeatable combination of convenience and flavor. Whether for a simple family dinner or entertaining guests, it’s a worry-free recipe that guarantees comfort and satisfaction in every bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use different cuts of chicken?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be substituted for breasts for a more succulent texture.
- → Is it necessary to add vegetables in the slow cooker?
Vegetables like mushrooms and peas are optional but add extra flavor and texture to the dish.
- → How can I adjust the sauce thickness?
For a thicker sauce, reduce the liquid slightly before serving or cook uncovered for a few minutes to concentrate.
- → Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?
Preparing the ingredients in advance and refrigerating allows easy assembly when ready to slow cook, saving time on busy days.
- → What pasta pairs best with this dish?
Fettuccine or linguine complement the creamy sauce well, but feel free to use your favorite shape or substitutes like zucchini noodles.