There’s a certain warmth that fills my home when the slow cooker starts its magic. Imagine the aroma of tender chicken mingling with savory Italian dressing and rich cream cheese, transforming an ordinary kitchen into a cozy haven reminiscent of Olive Garden. This Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace on a busy weeknight.
With just a few simple steps and minimal prep, you’ll create a dish that feels effortlessly gourmet and satisfies even the pickiest eaters. Whether it’s those last-minute dinner plans or an easy meal for the family, this creamy delight is entirely customizable to your taste. If you’re longing for a dinner that skips the fast-food run but offers all the indulgent flavors of your favorite restaurant, you’re in for a treat! Grab your slow cooker and let’s dive into this deliciously comforting dish that truly makes weeknight cooking a pleasure.
Why will you love Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta?
Comforting flavors that’ll make your heart sing: This dish beautifully blends the creamy, savory notes that Italian cuisine is known for.
Effortless prep means you can enjoy your time: Just toss the ingredients in the slow cooker, letting it do all the magic while you relax or tackle other tasks.
Customizable options keep everyone happy: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap the pasta for gluten-free alternatives to cater to dietary needs, as you’d do in variations like Coconut Peach Chicken.
Perfect for busy weeknights: With minimal effort and fantastic flavors, it’s an ideal solution for hectic days when you still want a delicious home-cooked meal.
Satisfying goodness that you’ll want to make again: Once you taste this creamy pasta, you’ll find it hard to resist adding it to your regular meal rotation!
Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – The main protein; chicken thighs can add more flavor.
• Olive Garden Italian Dressing – This provides a tangy flavor; any zesty Italian dressing works as a substitute.
• Cream Cheese – Creates a creamy texture; dairy-free options or a homemade roux can be used instead.
For the Seasoning
• Garlic Powder – Offers a mild garlic flavor; switch to fresh garlic for a stronger taste.
• Black Pepper – Enhances flavor; adjust according to your taste preference.
For the Pasta
• Pasta (Penne, Rotini, or Fettuccine) – The hearty base for this dish; whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can accommodate dietary needs.
For the Finish
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds savory depth to the dish; consider mozzarella or provolone for extra cheesiness.
• Chopped Fresh Parsley (optional) – Garnish for a touch of freshness; omit if preferred.
Enjoy making this Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta as it boasts comfort food characteristics that are rich and creamy!
How to Make Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
- Place the Chicken: Begin by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into your slow cooker. This is the heart of your dish, providing a satisfying protein base.
- Pour the Dressing: Next, pour the Olive Garden Italian dressing over the chicken. Sprinkle garlic powder and black pepper on top to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Add the Creamy Ingredients: Carefully add the cream cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken. These ingredients will create that rich, creamy texture you’re looking for.
- Cover and Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 6–8 hours, or high for about 4 hours. Your chicken is done when it’s tender and easy to shred.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, take two forks and shred the chicken right in the slow cooker. Mix everything together until creamy and well combined.
- Cook the Pasta: In the meantime, cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, ready to soak up that delicious sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker, giving it a good stir to coat every piece in that creamy sauce.
- Serve Warm: Finally, serve the dish warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color.
Optional: Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese before serving for extra cheesiness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep the pasta and sauce together for the best texture and flavor.
Freezer: Freeze any remaining Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta for up to 2 months. Divide into single servings for easy meal prep later.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth if needed to restore creaminess.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the dish out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta Variations
Feel free to make this delightful dish your own by exploring these exciting swaps and additions!
- Veggie-Packed: Stir in cooked spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes during the last hour of cooking for a nutritious boost and vibrant color.
- Lighter Option: Use reduced-fat cream cheese to lighten up this dish but keep the creaminess intact. Enjoy the same great flavor with fewer calories!
- Different Proteins: Swap the chicken for turkey or shredded beef for a fun twist. These options will introduce new flavors while still maintaining the comfort food essence.
- Cheesier Delight: Try adding mozzarella or provolone cheese instead of Parmesan for an extra cheesy experience that melts beautifully into the dish.
- Flavorful Heat: Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or replace the Italian dressing with spicy Italian dressing for a kick that warms the soul.
- Pasta Variety: Don’t feel limited to just penne or fettuccine; use whole wheat spaghetti, or try a gluten-free pasta option to customize the texture and taste to your liking.
- Fresh Herb Infusion: Add fresh basil or oregano during the final stir for a burst of aromatic freshness that elevates the dish into a full Italian experience.
- Creamy Alternatives: For a vegan version, substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use a plant-based cream cheese for that lush and creamy texture.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta?
Every bite of this creamy dish deserves delightful companions to elevate your dining experience.
- Garlic Bread: The crispiness of garlic bread complements the creamy pasta beautifully, perfect for soaking up every last drop of delicious sauce. It’s a classic choice that never disappoints.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A vibrant mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the pasta. Drizzle it with balsamic vinaigrette for an extra zing.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli or zucchini create a savory taste contrast and add nutrition. Toss them in olive oil and herbs for a flavorful side that brings color to your plate.
- Steamed Asparagus: Tender, steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon juice brings a bright acidity, cutting through the creaminess of the pasta, leaving your taste buds refreshed.
- Cheesy Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites deliver an earthy flavor and delightful texture, making them ideal for sharing while waiting for the main course. Plus, they look quite elegant!
- Chardonnay: Pair this dish with a chilled glass of Chardonnay. The wine’s buttery and crisp notes harmonize perfectly with the creamy flavors, enhancing your dining experience.
- Tiramisu: End your meal with a sweet note. This classic Italian dessert adds a touch of indulgence, its coffee and mascarpone layers leaving you on a delicious high.
The combinations are limitless, each enhancing the comforts of your Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta!
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
- Chicken Choice: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option, or chicken thighs for extra flavor. Avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.
- Dressing Substitutes: If you don’t have Olive Garden Italian dressing, any zesty Italian dressing will work. Just make sure it’s flavorful to enhance the dish.
- Creamy Consistency: Ensure you mix the cream cheese and Parmesan well while shredding the chicken. This will give your Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta the desired creaminess.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Try adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added nutrition. Just toss them in the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking.
- Leftover Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For best results, reheat gently with a splash of broth or water to maintain creaminess.
Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results in your Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta, I recommend using boneless skinless chicken breasts for a lean option. However, chicken thighs can add more flavor and juiciness. Just be mindful not to overcook them, as this can lead to dryness.
Can I substitute the Olive Garden Italian dressing?
Very! If you don’t have Olive Garden Italian dressing on hand, any good-quality zesty Italian dressing will work beautifully. Just make sure it’s flavorful to keep those tantalizing Italian tastes intact.
How do I store leftovers?
Of course! Store any leftovers of your Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For the best texture and flavor, it’s best to keep the pasta and sauce combined when storing.
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! You can freeze any remaining Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta for up to 2 months. I recommend dividing it into single-serving portions. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.
How long can I leave this dish out at room temperature?
Great question! It’s important to keep food safety in mind. Avoid leaving your Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. This helps to prevent any potential foodborne illnesses.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Very much so! Adding vegetables is a fantastic way to enhance the nutrition of your Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta. I often include spinach or sun-dried tomatoes during the last hour of cooking. They’ll wilt nicely and add extra color and flavor to the dish!
Irresistibly Easy Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Chicken thighs can add more flavor.
- 1 cup Olive Garden Italian Dressing Any zesty Italian dressing works as a substitute.
- 8 ounces Cream Cheese Dairy-free options or a homemade roux can be used.
For the Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Switch to fresh garlic for a stronger taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust according to your taste preference.
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces Pasta (Penne, Rotini, or Fettuccine) Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can accommodate dietary needs.
For the Finish
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Consider mozzarella or provolone for extra cheesiness.
- 2 tablespoons Chopped Fresh Parsley Optional garnish for freshness.
Instructions
How to Make Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
- Begin by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into your slow cooker.
- Next, pour the Olive Garden Italian dressing over the chicken. Sprinkle garlic powder and black pepper on top.
- Carefully add the cream cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 6–8 hours, or high for about 4 hours.
- Once cooked, take two forks and shred the chicken right in the slow cooker.
- In the meantime, cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker, giving it a good stir to coat every piece.
- Finally, serve the dish warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
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