Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

Pasta lovers, rejoice! This Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta is the perfect dish for any occasion. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. The best part? It cooks effortlessly in your slow cooker, allowing you to enjoy a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering, this recipe is your go-to for delicious comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply add ingredients to your slow cooker and let it do the work while you focus on other tasks.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of Olive Garden Italian dressing, cream cheese, and parmesan creates a mouthwatering sauce that complements the chicken and pasta perfectly.
• Versatile Dish: This recipe is great for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. It serves up to eight people, making it ideal for gatherings.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and mild flavors are appealing to both kids and adults alike, ensuring everyone will love it.
• Quick Cleanup: Cooking in one pot means less mess and hassle when it’s time to clean up after enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools to make your Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta a breeze.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups
• Grater (for parmesan cheese)
• Forks (for shredding chicken)

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is essential for slow cooking the chicken until tender without constant supervision.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure that each ingredient contributes perfectly to the dish’s flavor.
• Grater: Freshly grated parmesan adds a richer taste compared to pre-packaged options.

Ingredients

Pasta cooked with Olive Garden Italian dressing, parmesan and cream cheese. Penne pasta is added at the end of the cooking time.

Main Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breast (1.5-2 pounds works fine)
• 16 oz. Olive Garden Italian dressing
• 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 drain well)
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese

How to Make Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Add the chicken breasts to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Dressing and Cheese

Pour over the Olive Garden Italian dressing and sprinkle over the parmesan cheese and black pepper.

Step 3: Top with Cream Cheese

Place the cream cheese on top of the chicken mixture.

Step 4: Cook

Place the lid on the slow cooker. Cook on HIGH for 4 hours or LOW for 5-6 hours.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

When the cooking time is almost done, start cooking the penne pasta on the stovetop as directed on the package.

Step 6: Shred Chicken and Combine

Shred the chicken with two forks. Drain the pasta and add it to the chicken and sauce mixture in the slow cooker. Stir well. Sprinkle over the remaining parmesan cheese.

Step 7: Serve

Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta is a delicious and creamy dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. Simply spread butter and minced garlic on your favorite bread, then toast until golden.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta. It adds freshness and color to your meal.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley over each serving for added flavor. The herbs enhance the dish’s aroma and presentation.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• For a more elegant presentation, serve the pasta in individual bowls. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy their portions while looking fancy.

Accompany with Wine

• Pairing this meal with a glass of white wine, like Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors of the dish beautifully. It adds a touch of sophistication to your dinner.

Include Extra Cheese

• Offering grated parmesan on the side allows guests to customize their plates. Extra cheese enhances the cheesy goodness of the pasta.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

To ensure your Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use high-quality ingredients: Quality chicken and dressing will significantly impact flavor. Opt for fresh, organic options where possible.
• Adjust cooking times: Depending on your slow cooker model, cooking times may vary. Always check that chicken is cooked through before serving.
• Shred chicken thoroughly: Shredding the chicken well helps it absorb more sauce and ensures even distribution throughout the dish.
• Cook pasta separately: Cooking penne pasta separately prevents it from becoming mushy. Drain well before mixing with the chicken and sauce.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add additional spices such as garlic powder or Italian seasoning for extra flavor that complements the Olive Garden dressing.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

To complement your Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta, consider these delightful side dishes that pair wonderfully.

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing adds crunch and zest to your meal.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil enhance flavors while adding nutritional value to your plate.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli provides a bright green contrast and maintains its nutrients while being easy to prepare.
4. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil on skewers create a fun appetizer that’s both fresh and flavorful.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs make an excellent finger food option that complements the main dish perfectly.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter option, spiralized zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil can add freshness without weighing you down.
7. Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, meats, cheeses, and marinated vegetables offers variety and excitement before diving into your main course.
8. Baked Parmesan Zucchini Fries: Crispy zucchini fries coated in parmesan are not only delicious but also provide a healthier alternative to regular fries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping the seasoning – Not adding enough parmesan cheese or pepper can lead to bland flavor. Always follow the seasoning amounts listed in the recipe.
• Overcooking the chicken – Leaving chicken in the slow cooker too long can dry it out. Stick to the suggested cooking times for best results.
• Using uncooked pasta – Adding uncooked pasta will result in uneven texture. Cook pasta separately and add it at the end as instructed.
• Ignoring the lid – Removing the lid frequently extends cooking time and alters consistency. Keep it on until it’s time to shred the chicken.
• Not shredding properly – Not shredding chicken well can leave large chunks. Use two forks to ensure even mixing with sauce and pasta.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• item It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

• item Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• item Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

• item Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• item Microwave – Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
• item Stovetop – Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta?

Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta is a creamy dish made with chicken, Olive Garden Italian dressing, cream cheese, and penne pasta.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute penne with any short pasta like rotini or fusilli for a different texture.

How do I customize this recipe?

You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers during cooking for added nutrition and flavor.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but be aware that cooking time may increase slightly when using frozen chicken breasts.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats easily.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta offers a delightful combination of flavors, making it an easy and satisfying main course. Its versatility allows for many customization options, so don’t hesitate to add your favorite ingredients. Try this recipe today for a delicious meal that your family will love!

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