This yummy Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is an easy one-pot meal. Tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy Alfredo sauce come together to make a cozy dish that warms the heart!
I love how simple it is to toss everything in the crockpot and let it cook. Plus, you get to come home to a wonderful smell and a tasty dinner waiting for you. Who wouldn’t like that?
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best choice here for tender results. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken thighs work well too. If you’re vegetarian, try using chickpeas or tofu instead.
Broccoli: I love using fresh broccoli for a nice crunch, but frozen works just as well and is super convenient! If you want to try something different, add spinach or kale for a different flavor and nutrition boost.
Pasta: Penne is perfect because it holds onto the sauce. You can swap it for rotini or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just remember cooking times may vary with different pasta types.
Alfredo Sauce: A jar of Alfredo sauce makes this dish easy and quick. If you prefer homemade, that’s great too! You can mix cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese for a fresh flavor. For a lower-calorie version, try a light Alfredo sauce.
How Can I Cook Chicken Perfectly in a Crockpot?
Cooking chicken in a crockpot is all about timing to keep it juicy. Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom, as they’ll get the most heat. Season well with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Don’t skip the broth—this keeps everything from drying out!
- Cook on low for 4 hours. Avoid opening the lid too often as it releases steam.
- Check for doneness by shredding it with two forks. If it shreds easily, it’s ready!
This method creates delicious, tender chicken that blends perfectly with the Alfredo sauce.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 1 (15 oz) jar Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Alfredo will take about 4 hours of cooking time on low in the crockpot, plus a quick 15 minutes of prep work. It’s an easy dish that you can set and forget while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Base:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Sprinkle the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the chicken. This will add lots of flavor right from the start!
2. Add the Sauces:
Next, pour the chicken broth over the chicken. Then, add the jar of Alfredo sauce on top. Give everything a good stir to mix the flavors together nicely. This will create a delicious sauce as it cooks!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for about 4 hours. This allows the chicken to cook through and become juicy and tender.
4. Shred the Chicken:
After 4 hours, carefully remove the cooked chicken from the crockpot. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Don’t worry, it’s super easy to shred when it’s fully cooked!
5. Add Pasta and Broccoli:
Return the shredded chicken back to the crockpot. Then, add the uncooked penne pasta and the broccoli florets. Mix everything together so the pasta and broccoli are well-coated with the sauce.
6. Finish Cooking:
Cover the crockpot once more and cook on low for an additional 30 to 45 minutes. This will allow the pasta to cook and the broccoli to become tender, soaking up all the yummy flavors.
7. Add Cheese and Serve:
When the pasta is fully cooked, stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until it melts into the dish. This will make everything creamy and delicious! Serve hot, and if you’d like, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch.
Enjoy your comforting and creamy Crockpot Chicken Broccoli Alfredo!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just add an extra hour to the cooking time when using frozen chicken breasts. Ensure they are completely cooked through before shredding, and check with a meat thermometer for safety (165°F). No need to thaw beforehand!
Can I Substitute the Pasta? What About Gluten-Free Options?
Absolutely! You can substitute penne with another pasta like rotini or fusilli. For a gluten-free version, opt for gluten-free pasta, but keep in mind that cooking time may vary, so check the package directions for best results.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and it can last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating!
What Can I Use Instead of Alfredo Sauce?
If you want to make your own sauce, you can blend cream, butter, and grated Parmesan for a homemade version. Alternatively, a creamy cheese sauce or even a simple white sauce can work well. Just be sure to adjust seasoning to your taste!
