Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Introduction to Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

Imagine coming home after a long day to the aroma of a delicious meal that has been cooking all day. This Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Perfectly tender chicken, creamy sauce, and hearty pasta come together to create a dish that will satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling comforted and happy.

A Personal Story Behind My Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta Journey

Growing up, family meals were a cherished tradition in my household. We often gathered around the dining table to share stories and laughter over hearty dishes. One of my favorites was a creamy chicken pasta that my grandmother would make. This recipe, inspired by that tradition, brings back those fond memories while adding a modern twist with the convenience of a slow cooker.

What Makes This Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta Recipe Special?

What sets this dish apart is its simplicity and the depth of flavor that develops over hours of slow cooking. The Olive Garden Italian dressing infuses the chicken with a zesty flavor, while the cream cheese adds a luscious creaminess that pairs perfectly with the penne pasta. Plus, it’s an easy one-pot meal that requires minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights!

The Full Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 1 bottle (16 ounces) Olive Garden Italian Dressing
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, divided
• 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 8 ounces cream cheese
• 4-5 basil leaves, torn
• 1 pound penne pasta

Instructions

1. Place the chicken breast in a large slow cooker and pour the entire bottle of Olive Garden dressing over the chicken.
2. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and the chopped sun-dried tomatoes over the chicken and dressing. Add the block of cream cheese on top.
3. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and fork-tender. Tip: You can check for doneness by ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. Cook the penne pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
5. Shred the chicken using two forks. Add the torn basil, the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, and the cooked penne; mix well.

Serve the pasta immediately. For added flavor, consider garnishing with extra basil leaves or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

This dish is incredibly versatile! You can serve it with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. If you’re looking to add more vegetables, consider incorporating spinach or broccoli into the pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking. For a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. Don’t forget to adjust the seasoning according to your taste!

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can! Just extend the cooking time by an hour if using frozen chicken.

What if I don’t have Olive Garden dressing?
Any Italian dressing will work, but the Olive Garden dressing gives a unique flavor that’s hard to beat!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the slow cooker when you’re ready to cook.

Notes

For added flavor, consider garnishing with extra basil leaves or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.

Recipe Stats

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 4-6 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes – 6 hours 10 minutes
• Calories per Serving: 450
• Servings: 6

Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

A creamy and flavorful chicken pasta dish made effortlessly in a slow cooker.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 hours hrs

Total Time 5 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Slow Cooker A large slow cooker is ideal for this recipe.

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 16 ounces Olive Garden Italian Dressing
• 0.5 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 8 ounces cream cheese
• 4 leaves basil leaves, torn
• 1 pound penne pasta

Instructions

 

• Place the chicken breast in a large slow cooker and pour the entire bottle of Olive Garden dressing over the chicken.
• Sprinkle 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and the chopped sun-dried tomatoes over the chicken and dressing. Add the block of cream cheese on top.
• Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and fork-tender.
• Cook the penne pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
• Shred the chicken using two forks. Add the torn basil, the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, and the cooked penne; mix well.

Notes

For added flavor, consider garnishing with extra basil leaves or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving. No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.

Keyword Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta Recipe