Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli Recipe

If you are craving a comforting, creamy, and vibrant meal, this Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli is going to become your new go-to. Imagine tender chicken breasts slowly simmered in a rich, cheesy Alfredo sauce that’s perfectly balanced with a touch of Cajun spice and loaded with fresh broccoli florets for a burst of color and nutrition. This recipe combines ease and indulgence in one pot, resulting in a dish that feels luxurious but comes together effortlessly — perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner with friends and family.

Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli plays an important role in building layers of flavor, adding texture, and making this dish irresistible. From creamy dairy to fresh vegetables and bold seasonings, everything works together to create a harmonious taste experience.

  • 1 lb chicken breasts, sliced: The star protein, sliced to cook evenly and absorb all those saucy flavors.
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream: Provides the luscious, velvety base for the Alfredo sauce.
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Adds depth and balances the richness, keeping the sauce smooth.
  • 1 tbsp butter, diced: Melts into the sauce for an extra silky mouthfeel.
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning: Brings a gentle kick and smoky warmth to the dish.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic for bright and aromatic undertones.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder: Boosts the garlic flavor with a subtle, toasted note.
  • 5 oz freshly shredded Parmesan cheese: The cheesy heart of Alfredo, adding sharpness and creaminess.
  • 1 tsp red chili pepper flakes: To sprinkle on top for a bit of heat and color contrast.
  • ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors.
  • ½ tsp black pepper: Adds gentle earthiness and a touch of spice.
  • 1 lb broccoli, rinsed and cut into florets: Adds crunch, nutrients, and a vibrant green pop.
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: For a fresh, peppery finish when garnishing.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce Mixture

Start by whisking together the heavy whipping cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. This simple yet flavorful sauce base will be the creamy, cheesy heart of your Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli, marrying the spices and the Parmesan into one gorgeous blend.

Step 2: Assemble Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Place the sliced chicken breasts into the bottom of your slow cooker along with the diced butter and minced garlic. Add the broccoli florets, carefully layering them so they cook evenly without getting mushy. Pour the prepared cream mixture over the top and gently stir to combine everything, being careful not to break up the broccoli too much.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). During this time, all those rich and spicy flavors meld beautifully, while the broccoli softens just enough to retain a lovely bite — this is the magic of the Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli at work.

Step 4: Final Seasoning and Garnish

Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Sprinkle red chili pepper flakes for a pop of heat and fresh chopped parsley to brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise. This final step elevates your creation to restaurant-quality comfort food you’ll want to savor every single bite of.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli

Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and a pinch of red chili flakes add both vibrant color and a hint of fresh, peppery spice that perfectly complements the creamy sauce. You can also add extra Parmesan cheese on the table for those who love an extra cheesy punch.

Side Dishes

This rich Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread makes an excellent companion to soak up the luscious sauce with every bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this over freshly cooked fettuccine or your favorite pasta. If you prefer a lower-carb option, spiralized zucchini noodles work wonderfully to keep things light but still satisfying. You can also dish it up in individual ramekins, topped with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a few fresh parsley leaves for a charming presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftovers of Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli into airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, it will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a convenient choice for meal prep or next-day dinners that still taste fresh and delicious.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes nicely. Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to redistribute the heat evenly. Add a splash of cream or broth if the sauce thickens too much during reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used if fresh isn’t available. Just add it about halfway through the cooking process to avoid overcooking and becoming too soft.

Is Cajun seasoning necessary?

While Cajun seasoning adds a lovely smoky spice, you can adjust or omit it based on your taste preferences. A simple Italian seasoning or just salt and pepper will also work.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can try substituting heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free Parmesan alternatives, but keep in mind the flavor and texture will change significantly from the original creamy Alfredo.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The safest and most reliable method is using a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The chicken should also be tender and easily shreddable.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or asparagus can be great additions. Just add them based on their cooking times to avoid over or undercooking.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli recipe combines the ease of slow cooking with rich, wonderful flavors that feel special enough for any occasion. It’s the kind of meal that warms your heart and satisfies your cravings with creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh broccoli all in one pot. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it time and time again!

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Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli Recipe

This creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli is a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts are slow-cooked in a rich Alfredo sauce infused with Cajun seasoning and garlic, perfectly complemented by vibrant broccoli florets. Finished with Parmesan cheese, a hint of red chili flakes, and fresh parsley, this dish offers a harmonious blend of zest and creaminess.

  • Author: Jeannette
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours (low) / 2.5 hours (average on high)
  • Total Time: 4 hr 10 min (low) / 2 hr 40 min (high)
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Low Salt

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breasts, sliced
  • 1 lb broccoli, rinsed and cut into florets
  • 1 tbsp butter, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Sauce Ingredients

  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 5 oz freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp red chili pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy whipping cream, low-sodium chicken broth, garlic powder, freshly shredded Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Cajun seasoning until smooth and well combined.
  2. Assemble the slow cooker: Place the sliced chicken breasts, diced butter, minced garlic, and broccoli florets into the slow cooker. Pour the prepared cream mixture over the ingredients and gently stir to ensure everything is evenly coated.
  3. Cook the dish: Set the slow cooker on low for 4 hours or on high for 2–3 hours. Cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is tender. The sauce will thicken and coat the chicken and broccoli.
  4. Finish and serve: Taste the dish and adjust seasonings if necessary. Sprinkle with red chili pepper flakes for added heat and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, flavorful chicken Alfredo.

Notes

  • For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream but expect a thinner sauce.
  • Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning and red chili flakes according to your spice preference.
  • Ensure the chicken is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
  • You can add cooked pasta at the end before serving to make it a complete meal.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently to avoid curdling the sauce.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1/4 of recipe)
  • Calories: 520 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 420 mg
  • Fat: 38 g
  • Saturated Fat: 22 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 140 mg

Keywords: Slow cooker chicken alfredo, creamy chicken alfredo, chicken and broccoli slow cooker, easy slow cooker recipes, Cajun chicken alfredo

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