Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo Broccoli: Easy Recipe & Tips
If you’re looking for a perfect blend of comfort and convenience, then look no further. Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo Broccoli is not just a dish; it’s a warm embrace on a busy night. Imagine tender chicken simmering in a rich creamy Alfredo sauce, complemented by the crispness of broccoli, all mingling beautifully with your choice of pasta. Plus, with the ease of a slow cooker, dinner practically makes itself while you go about your day. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation.
Why Make This Recipe
- Simple and hands-off: Just toss everything in and let the slow cooker do the work.
- Deliciously versatile: Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week.
- Healthier comfort food: Packed with protein and veggies, without compromising on taste.
Nothing beats the satisfaction of preparing dinner with minimal effort while still enjoying an incredibly flavorful meal. You’ll likely find yourself returning to this recipe again and again!
Simple Way to Prepare Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo Broccoli
Making Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo Broccoli is straightforward, making it a fantastic option for busy families or anyone who wants to savor a delicious home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Here’s how to whip it up effortlessly.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
If you have a bit of extra time, consider searing the chicken breasts before adding them to the slow cooker. This step enhances the dish’s overall depth of flavor in a delightful way.
- Heat olive oil (about 1 tablespoon) in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Sear each side for about 2 to 3 minutes until lightly browned. This step is optional; if you’re rushed, you can simply place the raw chicken in the slow cooker.
Step 2: Slow Cook the Ingredients
- Once you have your chicken prepped, place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker in a single layer.
- Sprinkle minced garlic and Italian seasoning over the chicken for aromatic depth.
- Pour a 16 oz jar of your favorite Alfredo sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s mostly covered.
- Add 4 oz of softened cream cheese to enhance creaminess. As it cooks, it will melt and blend into the sauce.
Step 3: Season the Dish
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper according to your taste buds. Remember, the Parmesan cheese you’ll add later is salty, so start conservatively.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender and shreddable.
Step 4: Add the Broccoli
About 30 minutes before serving, add a large head of broccoli (cut into florets) to the slow cooker. This will keep it tender-crisp and vibrant. If you prefer your broccoli softer, feel free to add it earlier.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken and Combine
- Once the chicken is cooked, shred it directly in the slow cooker, using two forks for ease.
- Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, which will melt into the sauce and provide extra richness.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. If you’d like a kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
Step 6: Cook the Pasta
Simultaneously, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook 1 lb of your choice of pasta (fettuccine, penne, rotini, or bowties are all great options) according to the package directions.
- Once done, drain the pasta well and reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water for potential sauce thinning.
- Add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker and gently combine everything. If the sauce is too thick, mix in a bit of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is achieved.
Step 7: Serve
Serve immediately, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
Best Way to Store Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo Broccoli
To keep your delicious leftovers fresh and enjoyable, consider the following storage tips:
- Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours after cooking, ensuring an airtight container or wrapping.
- Consume refrigerated leftovers within 3 to 4 days at 40°F (4°C).
- For longer storage, freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Ensure to label and date the container or freezer bag to keep track.
When reheating, you may need to add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
Serving Ideas for Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo Broccoli
This dish serves beautifully on its own, but you can elevate the dining experience with these pairing ideas:
- Fresh Side Salad: Complement your meal with a light mixed greens salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the creamy richness.
- Crusty Garlic Bread: Serving warm garlicky bread on the side is always a hit. It’s perfect for soaking up that creamy Alfredo sauce.
- Wine Pairing: A lovely chilled glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay, pairs wonderfully with this dish.
- Grilled Vegetables: For more color on the plate, consider serving alongside grilled asparagus or zucchini.
No matter how you choose to serve it, this dish’s delightful flavors will shine through.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo Broccoli
- Tip 1: If you like your meals with a bit of heat, don’t hesitate to sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for an exciting flavor boost.
- Tip 2: Mixing up the pasta shape each time keeps your meals interesting. Experiment with fun shapes, or even gluten-free pasta if needed.
- Tip 3: For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or lemon juice to the sauce to give it a brightness that complements the creamy notes.
Variations or Substitutions
If you’re looking to customize your Chicken Alfredo Broccoli, consider these options:
- Protein Options: Swap out chicken breasts for boneless chicken thighs. Thighs are juicier and offer a different flavor profile that can enhance your dish.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: For extra nutrients, feel free to toss in other vegetables, like bell peppers, snap peas, or spinach, which can all enhance the color and flavor diversity of your meal.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time. Just follow the preparation steps and store it in the refrigerator or freezer.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a touch of cream or reserved pasta water to maintain the sauce’s creaminess.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add more flavor and remain moist, making them a great alternative.
How do I make it spicier?
A: For added heat, incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into your sauce for a delightful kick.
Crafting this Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo Broccoli is not merely about cooking; it’s an inviting way to bring family and friends together over a satisfying meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet night at home, this recipe works seamlessly for any occasion. With the steps and tips provided here, you’re on your way to mastering a dish that embodies both comfort and convenience. Happy cooking!
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Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo Broccoli
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Total Time: 375 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A comforting dish of tender chicken and broccoli in a creamy Alfredo sauce, made effortlessly in a slow cooker.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 16 oz jar Alfredo sauce
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 large head of broccoli (cut into florets)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lb pasta (fettuccine, penne, rotini, or bowties)
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Optional: Sear chicken breasts in olive oil, seasoned with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for 2-3 minutes until browned.
- Place chicken in the slow cooker and sprinkle with minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Pour Alfredo sauce and add cream cheese.
- Season mixture with salt and pepper. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, add broccoli florets. Cook until tender-crisp.
- Shred chicken in the slow cooker and stir in grated Parmesan cheese.
- Simultaneously, boil salted water and cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Add cooked pasta to slow cooker and combine. Adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water if needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and red pepper flakes.
Notes
Add red pepper flakes for extra heat or mix up pasta shapes for variety. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and consume within 3-4 days.