Craving creamy, dreamy chicken Alfredo but short on time? This Crock Pot Chicken Alfredo recipe using jarred sauce is your answer! It's incredibly easy, requires minimal prep, and delivers a restaurant-quality meal with surprisingly little effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is a family favorite that's sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
What Makes This Recipe So Great?
This recipe strikes the perfect balance between convenience and deliciousness. Using jarred Alfredo sauce saves you valuable time on prep work without compromising on flavor. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, resulting in tender, juicy chicken and a perfectly creamy sauce. It's a win-win for busy weeknights when you want a comforting and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (24 ounce) jar Alfredo sauce (your favorite brand!)
- 1 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound fettuccine or other pasta (cooked according to package directions)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prep the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the jarred Alfredo sauce over the chicken. If using, stir in the heavy cream for extra richness.
- Slow Cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
- Combine: Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the sauce.
- Serve: Serve the chicken Alfredo over your cooked pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
This section addresses common questions people have about Crock Pot Chicken Alfredo.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is a classic pairing with Alfredo sauce, you can use other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or even spaghetti. Choose your favorite!
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this recipe healthier, consider using a light or reduced-fat Alfredo sauce. You can also add vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms to increase the nutritional value. Using whole wheat pasta is another great way to boost the fiber content.
Can I make this in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in the slow cooker the day before and reheat it before serving. This is a great make-ahead option for busy schedules. Just be sure to store it properly in the refrigerator.
What kind of slow cooker do I need?
Any slow cooker will work for this recipe, as long as it's large enough to hold the chicken and sauce comfortably.
Can I freeze this recipe?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftover Crock Pot Chicken Alfredo. Allow it to cool completely before freezing in airtight containers. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Tips and Variations:
- Add some spice: For a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Boost the flavor: Sauté some garlic or onions before adding the chicken to the slow cooker for a deeper flavor.
- Creamy upgrade: A splash of white wine or chicken broth can enhance the creaminess and flavor of the sauce.
- Cheese please!: Stir in some grated Parmesan cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra cheesy goodness.
This Crock Pot Chicken Alfredo recipe is a simple yet satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy!
