Description
This Crock Pot Chicken Alfredo Casserole is a creamy, cheesy comfort food perfect for an easy weeknight dinner. Tender shredded chicken is layered with uncooked penne pasta, rich Alfredo sauce, and a blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses, then slow-cooked to perfection in a crock pot. With minimal prep time and hearty flavors, this casserole makes a delicious, worry-free meal that serves six.
Ingredients
Chicken and Cheese:
- 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts (cooked and shredded)
- 3 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Sauce and Pasta:
- 2 (15 oz) jars Alfredo sauce (Bertoli brand recommended)
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 16 oz uncooked penne pasta
Instructions
- Prepare Alfredo Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the Alfredo sauce, water, salt, pepper, and minced garlic until well mixed to create a flavorful sauce base.
- Coat Pasta: Stir the uncooked penne pasta into the Alfredo sauce mixture until every piece is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Prep Crock Pot: Spray a 6-quart crock pot with non-stick spray to prevent sticking during cooking.
- Layer First Half: Place half of the penne and Alfredo sauce mixture evenly at the bottom of the crock pot.
- Add Chicken Layer: Spread half of the cooked and shredded chicken breasts over the pasta layer.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Mozzarella cheese and 1/8 cup Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken layer.
- Layer Second Half: Add the remaining penne and Alfredo mixture, then the rest of the shredded chicken, followed by another cup of Mozzarella cheese and 1/8 cup Parmesan cheese to top.
- Cook: Place the lid on the crock pot and cook on low heat for 2 1/2 to 3 hours until pasta is tender and casserole is bubbly.
- Final Cheese Layer: Remove the crock pot lid and sprinkle the last cup of Mozzarella cheese evenly over the casserole. Allow it to melt fully.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally sprinkle chopped parsley over the melted cheese for a fresh finish, then serve warm.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked and shredded before starting the recipe for best results.
- Use a 6-quart crock pot for proper layering and even cooking.
- Do not open the crock pot lid frequently during cooking to maintain heat and cooking time accuracy.
- Parsley garnish is optional but adds a nice color contrast and fresh flavor.
- For a lower-calorie version, consider using light Alfredo sauce and reduced-fat cheeses.