Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish that’s incredibly easy to prepare. With tender chicken cooked in flavorful Italian dressing and blended with cream cheese, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without the fuss.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breast (1.5-2 pounds works fine)
• 16 oz. Olive Garden Italian dressing (or any Italian dressing you like; consider lower sodium if preferred)
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/4 tsp. black pepper
• 8 oz. cream cheese
• 16 oz. penne pasta, cooked according to package directions and drained (added after cooking)
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Add the chicken breasts to the slow cooker.
2. Step 2: Pour the Olive Garden Italian dressing over the chicken, then sprinkle the parmesan cheese and black pepper on top.
3. Step 3: Place the cream cheese on top of the chicken and dressing.
4. Step 4: Cover with the slow cooker lid and cook on HIGH for 4 hours or LOW for 5-6 hours.
5. Step 5: When the cooking time is almost done, start cooking the penne pasta on the stove according to package directions. Drain well.
6. Step 6: Using two forks, shred the cooked chicken in the slow cooker.
7. Step 7: Add the drained pasta to the slow cooker and stir well to combine with the chicken and sauce.
8. Step 8: Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup parmesan cheese over the top before serving. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Use a lower sodium Italian dressing if you prefer a less salty dish.
• Swap penne pasta for rigatoni or rotini for a different texture.
• Add fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese with a vegan alternative and omit parmesan.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts to ensure even cooking in the slow cooker. Using frozen chicken can increase cooking time and may result in unevenly cooked meat.

Can I prepare this recipe without a slow cooker?

You can cook the chicken and sauce in a covered baking dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through. Then shred the chicken and mix with cooked pasta and cheese as directed.

Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 51 reviews

This Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish combining tender chicken breasts cooked slowly in Italian dressing and cream cheese, then tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta and Parmesan cheese. It’s an easy, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.

• Author: Isla
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Slow Cooker Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breast (1.5–2 pounds works fine)
• 16 oz. Olive Garden Italian dressing (or any Italian dressing you prefer; note that Olive Garden dressing is high in sodium, so consider a lower sodium option if desired)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 tsp. black pepper
• 8 oz. cream cheese

After Cooking

• 16 oz. penne pasta, cooked according to package directions and drained well
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (for sprinkling)

Instructions

1. Prepare Slow Cooker: Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker base to create an even layer for cooking.
2. Add Dressing and Seasonings: Pour the 16 oz. of Olive Garden Italian dressing evenly over the chicken breasts, then sprinkle the 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper on top to season the dish.
3. Add Cream Cheese: Place the entire block (8 oz.) of cream cheese on top of the chicken and dressing mixture without stirring, allowing it to melt and blend during cooking.
4. Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on HIGH for 4 hours or on LOW for 5 to 6 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
5. Cook Pasta: When the slow cooking time is nearly complete, begin cooking 16 oz. of penne pasta on the stovetop according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly.
6. Shred Chicken: Using two forks, shred the slow-cooked chicken breasts directly in the slow cooker, mixing with the creamy sauce for an even consistency.
7. Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add the well-drained penne pasta to the slow cooker with the shredded chicken and sauce. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
8. Finish with Parmesan: Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese over the combined pasta and chicken mixture to enhance flavor before serving.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the creamy chicken pasta hot from the slow cooker and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal.

Notes

• You can use any Italian dressing you prefer; for a healthier choice, select a low sodium dressing.
• Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker model; check chicken for doneness.
• For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to help reduce excess liquid.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
• Optional additions: fresh basil or parsley for garnish, or steamed vegetables on the side for a complete meal.

Keywords: Slow cooker chicken pasta, Olive Garden chicken recipe, creamy chicken pasta, Italian dressing slow cooker recipe, easy slow cooker meals