In our home, we lovingly call this dish “Effortless Ziti” because it’s so simple to make yet unbelievably delicious. You’d never guess how little work goes into it! Slow cooker chicken Alfredo rigatoni is the ultimate comfort food, blending the rich, creamy flavors of Alfredo sauce with tender chicken and hearty rigatoni pasta. It’s the kind of recipe that makes weeknights feel special without requiring hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, letting the flavors come together in the most comforting way. It reminds me of those cozy Sunday family dinners, where the aroma of a homemade meal would fill the air and bring everyone to the table with smiles. It’s the perfect mix of tradition and convenience—ideal for busy families or anyone who craves the taste of home. Pair it with a crisp green salad drizzled with light vinaigrette for freshness, and add a side of garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up every drop of that luscious sauce. Steamed or roasted veggies like carrots or green beans make a colorful sidekick, while a chilled glass of white wine or iced tea ties it all together for a truly satisfying meal.
Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo Rigatoni
Servings: 6
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 1 pound |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1 cup |
| Rigatoni pasta | 1 pound |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 1 tablespoon |
Directions
- Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the chicken broth over the chicken, cover, and cook on low for 4–5 hours, until the chicken is tender and shreds easily.
- Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return it to the slow cooker.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Cook rigatoni pasta separately according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and add it to the slow cooker.
- Drizzle in olive oil, then gently stir to coat the pasta in the sauce.
- Cover and cook on low for another 30 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
- Just before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for color and brightness.
Variations & Tips
Want a little spice? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. Craving seafood? Swap the chicken for shrimp for a tasty twist. For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and scale back on the Parmesan. Vegetarians can skip the chicken and mix in sautéed mushrooms and spinach for richness. You can also try different pastas like penne or fettuccine—this recipe is as flexible as it is delicious.
