Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo Slow Cooker Recipe (Guide)

If you’re a fan of creamy, dreamy pasta dishes, you’ve probably daydreamed about Olive Garden’s famous Chicken Alfredo. That rich, velvety sauce that clings to tender pieces of chicken and pasta-oh, it’s the kind of comfort food that makes you sigh with satisfaction after the very first bite. Now, imagine bringing that exact restaurant-quality experience into your own kitchen without standing over a hot stove for hours. Enter the slow cooker.

Slow cooking this dish transforms it into a hands-off, hassle-free experience. You can prep your ingredients in the morning, let the magic happen while you go about your day, and return to a home filled with the irresistible aroma of garlicky, cheesy goodness. The best part? You’ll get tender, juicy chicken perfectly infused with a luscious Alfredo sauce, making it a meal that feels indulgent yet achievable.

So, let’s dive in and make your weeknight dinners-or even a cozy weekend treat-unforgettable.

Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo Slow Cooker Recipe

This slow cooker version of Chicken Alfredo keeps everything simple but doesn’t compromise on flavor. By cooking the chicken slowly in a creamy sauce, you end up with a luxurious, rich dish that rivals anything from your favorite Italian restaurant. And the creamy sauce? Oh, it’s just begging to be spooned over fettuccine or your pasta of choice.

• Type of dish: Creamy Italian-style pasta
• Cooking method: Slow cooker
• Servings: 4-6 (depending on portion size)
• Prep time: 10-15 minutes
• Cook time: 3-4 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high

Ingredient List

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this dish shine. I like to keep it simple, but each ingredient plays a starring role in that signature creamy Alfredo flavor:

• Chicken

  • 2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (you can also use thighs for extra juiciness)

• Creamy Base

  • 2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half if you want it lighter)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened (this adds that silky texture)

• Cheese

  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (don’t skip the fresh stuff-it melts beautifully)

• Seasonings

  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, and thyme)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

• Pasta

  • 8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice, cooked al dente (you can also add it directly to the slow cooker at the end if you like it softer)

• Optional Extras

  • Parsley for garnish
  • Red pepper flakes for a little heat

Instruction Guide

Cooking this dish is easier than you think, and you’ll feel like a gourmet chef while barely lifting a finger. Follow these steps carefully for perfect results:

1. Prepare The Slow Cooker

   • Lightly grease the slow cooker with cooking spray or a little butter to prevent sticking.

2. Add The Chicken

   • Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Season with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning.

3. Create The Sauce

   • In a separate bowl, combine heavy cream, cream cheese, minced garlic, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth.

4. Combine And Cook

   • Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken, covering it completely.
   • Cook on low for 3-4 hours (or on high for 2-3 hours), until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

5. Shred The Chicken (optional)

   • Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred with two forks, then return it to the sauce.

6. Finish The Dish

   • Stir in the remaining Parmesan cheese.
   • Toss with cooked pasta or spoon the sauce over the pasta. Garnish with parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.

Ingredient Swaps

Flexibility is key in the kitchen, and this recipe can easily adapt to what you have on hand:

• Chicken: Thighs instead of breasts for richer flavor
• Cream: Half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version (though the sauce will be slightly less thick)
• Cheese: Pecorino Romano or a blend of cheeses for extra depth
• Garlic: Garlic powder can be used if fresh isn’t available
• Pasta: Penne, bowties, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option

Helpful Tips

Here are some insider tricks to ensure your slow cooker Chicken Alfredo comes out perfect every time:

• Avoid overcooking the cream: Add it later in the cooking process if you’re using a very long cooking time.
• Shred the chicken: This helps it absorb more sauce and makes every bite extra creamy.
• Stir gently: After adding the pasta, stir carefully to avoid breaking it apart.
• Taste and adjust: Sometimes a pinch more salt or cheese at the end makes a huge difference.

Customization Ideas

Want to make this recipe your own? Here are some ideas to take it next level:

• Vegetables: Add broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Protein variations: Try shrimp or even Italian sausage instead of chicken.
• Flavor boost: Add a splash of white wine or a pinch of nutmeg for a subtle complexity.
• Crispy topping: Finish with breadcrumbs and a quick broil for a golden crust.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo In A Slow Cooker?

You will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic, butter, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and fettuccine pasta. Optional ingredients include Italian seasoning, parsley, and cream cheese for extra creaminess.

Can I Use Frozen Chicken In A Slow Cooker For This Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you should increase the cooking time by about 1-2 hours on low to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. Using frozen chicken may release extra water, so you might need to reduce the amount of added broth slightly.

How Long Should I Cook The Chicken Alfredo In The Slow Cooker?

Cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. After cooking, the pasta is added separately and simmered for 10-15 minutes until done.

Do I Need To Cook The Pasta Separately?

Yes, it’s recommended to cook the pasta separately or add it in the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. Adding uncooked pasta to the slow cooker too early can result in overcooked or mushy noodles.

Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?

You can make it healthier by using skinless chicken, low-fat or half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reducing the amount of butter and Parmesan cheese. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be substituted.

How Can I Thicken The Sauce If It Is Too Thin?

If the Alfredo sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by mixing 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with cold water and stirring it into the sauce, then simmering for a few minutes until it reaches the desired consistency. Alternatively, allowing the sauce to simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes will also reduce it naturally.

Can I Add Vegetables To The Slow Cooker Alfredo?

Yes, vegetables like broccoli, peas, mushrooms, or spinach can be added. Hard vegetables should be added at the start of cooking, while delicate vegetables like spinach should be added near the end to prevent overcooking.

Is It Possible To Prepare This Recipe Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Cooked chicken Alfredo can also be stored in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in a slow cooker with a little added cream or broth to restore creaminess.

What Is The Best Type Of Parmesan Cheese To Use?

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is ideal for this recipe as it melts more smoothly and enhances the flavor. Pre-grated or shredded Parmesan can be used in a pinch but may not create the same creamy texture.

Can I Freeze The Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken Alfredo without pasta for up to 2-3 months. Freeze in airtight containers, and when ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in a slow cooker, adding freshly cooked pasta just before serving.