Olive Garden Chicken Pasta in Slow Cooker – Easy Family Meal
Alright, allow me to share my experience in making Olive Garden chicken pasta in a slow cooker. Imagine this: a long day at work, and you’ve got a headache just thinking about dinner. Enter the slow cooker. You can get everything going before you leave, and when you return, your home smells like an Italian eatery. It’s pure magic!
I’ve been experimenting in the kitchen for years, and I can say with confidence that this dish will make you feel like a gourmet chef without the hassle. The great thing about slow cooking is that you throw everything in, set the timer, and let the machine work its charm. I’ve gathered ingredients and crafted a simple recipe that not only tastes fantastic but is enriching to share.
What Is Olive Garden Chicken Pasta in Slow Cooker?
In essence, Olive Garden chicken pasta in a slow cooker is a one-pot wonder. Boneless chicken is bathed in a creamy Italian dressing, enriched with flavors of garlic and Italian seasoning, and combined with pasta for a delightful finish.
It’s hearty, satisfying, and a nod to the classic Olive Garden dish that many adore without any of the fuss.
How Does It Taste?
As someone who has enjoyed many a bowl, the taste is just divine. The chicken becomes tender, almost melting into the sauce, while the cream cheese adds a velvety richness. The Italian seasoning brings a depth of flavor, making every bite something special.
The parmesan enhances the dish, adding that nice salty kick. With each spoonful, you get a balance of savory and creamy that’s tough to resist.
Why You'll Love This!
This dish isn’t just about flavors. It’s simple, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You can prepare it in advance and let your slow cooker do its thing.
Clean-up is a breeze since everything is done in one pot. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser. I’ve seen even the pickiest of eaters come back for seconds!
Ingredients
Let’s jump into the essentials you’ll need for this delicious creation:
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or your preferred variety)
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 2 cups Olive Garden-style Italian dressing
- 1/4 cup freshly shredded or shaved Parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces cream cheese (1 block, softened)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder (for added flavor depth)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (for a herbaceous note)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste (optional)
Step by Step Directions
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Close your eyes and picture all of those ingredients laid out on your countertop. Get that pasta, chicken, and everything else ready. This way, you’ll have a smoother time as you move along.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing your boneless, skinless chicken breast in the slow cooker. No need to be fancy; just lay them down. Ensure that they're evenly distributed so each piece cooks properly.
Step 3: Add the Dressing
Next, pour in the 2 cups of Olive Garden-style Italian dressing over the chicken. This will create a delightful marinade as it cooks. Spread it around to make sure every piece is nicely coated.
Step 4: Cream Cheese Action
Here comes the rich part: add the softened cream cheese on top of the chicken and dressing. It’ll blend well as it heats up, giving a smooth texture to your sauce. Don’t worry about mixing it just yet; we’ll get to that.
Step 5: Spice It Up
Sprinkle the garlic powder and Italian seasoning over everything. If you’re a fan of a little heat, toss in some freshly ground black pepper too. These spices will enhance the flavors in every bowl.
Step 6: Set the Cooker
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for approximately 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, depending on your time. Honestly, the longer, the better. Just set it and forget it!
Step 7: Cook the Pasta
About 15 minutes before your chicken is ready, bring a pot of salted water to boil and cook your choice of pasta according to package instructions. You don’t want mushy pasta, so keep an eye on it.
Step 8: Combine & Serve
When the timer signals the end of cooking, shred the chicken using two forks right in the slow cooker. Stir it all to combine, making sure the chicken is evenly mixed with the creamy sauce. Drain your pasta and toss it in, ensuring every strand is coated in that delicious mix.
Step 9: Plate It Up
Serve your Olive Garden chicken pasta warm, garnishing it with the freshly shredded or shaved Parmesan cheese. This is where that comforting aroma really shines!
Tips On Making Olive Garden Chicken Pasta in Slow Cooker
- Don’t Skip the Dressing: This dressing is the heart of this recipe. It adds all the necessary flavor.
- Use Fresh Chicken: Fresh chicken will give the best results. Frozen ones may release excess moisture.
- Reserve Some Pasta Water: If the sauce seems thick, add a little pasta water to loosen it without losing flavor.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix in mozzarella or use a blend of cheeses for a different twist.
- Adjust for Spice: If you prefer a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Nutrition Information
Each serving of this Olive Garden chicken pasta is a source of protein and delivers carbohydrates from the pasta, which is perfect for energizing meals. Depending on your specific serving size and ingredient adjustments, the breakdown could range around:
- Calories: 600-700
- Protein: 45-50g
- Carbohydrates: 60-70g
- Fats: 25-30g
How Do You Store This Olive Garden Chicken Pasta in a Slow Cooker?
Storing this dish is easy. Let it cool down completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it.
Just freeze individual portions, ensuring they are well-sealed. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up on the stove.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Olive Garden Chicken Pasta in Slow Cooker?
If you want to mix things up, there are plenty of substitution options to consider:
- Turkey or Pork: Switch out chicken for turkey or even pork tenderloin. Each protein brings a different flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Option: Use beans and vegetables instead of meat. Chickpeas or lentils bring protein without sacrificing taste.
- Different Sauces: Try using ranch dressing or a honey mustard mix in place of Italian dressing for a unique take.
- Gluten-Free Pasta: Feel free to use any gluten-free pasta variety, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the meal.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate spinach or broccoli at the very end to give some color and extra nutrients.
Conclusion
Cooking Olive Garden chicken pasta in a slow cooker is a go-to in my recipe repertoire. It’s straightforward and always yields mouthwatering results. With simple ingredients and easy steps, your weeknight meals can turn into something special.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be adding this dish to your regular rotation. Get ready for raving reviews from family and friends alike!
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Before diving into the details of this easy recipe, let’s talk about what pairs really well with it. A simple garlic bread on the side keeps the Italian vibe intact. You might also whip up a fresh garden salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
If you want a bit of crunch, toss in some roasted vegetables or maybe some cheesy breadsticks that you can easily grab from your local store. And if you're feeling extra fancy, a glass of Chardonnay will elevate the meal even further.
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or your preferred variety)
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 2 cups Olive Garden-style Italian dressing
- 1/4 cup freshly shredded or shaved Parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces cream cheese (1 block, softened)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder (for added flavor depth)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (for a herbaceous note)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste (optional)
- Close your eyes and picture all of those ingredients laid out on your countertop. Get that pasta, chicken, and everything else ready. This way, you’ll have a smoother time as you move along.
- Start by placing your boneless, skinless chicken breast in the slow cooker. No need to be fancy; just lay them down. Ensure that they're evenly distributed so each piece cooks properly.
- Next, pour in the 2 cups of Olive Garden-style Italian dressing over the chicken. This will create a delightful marinade as it cooks. Spread it around to make sure every piece is nicely coated.
- Here comes the rich part: add the softened cream cheese on top of the chicken and dressing. It’ll blend well as it heats up, giving a smooth texture to your sauce. Don’t worry about mixing it just yet; we’ll get to that.
- Sprinkle the garlic powder and Italian seasoning over everything. If you’re a fan of a little heat, toss in some freshly ground black pepper too. These spices will enhance the flavors in every bowl.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for approximately 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, depending on your time. Honestly, the longer, the better. Just set it and forget it!
- About 15 minutes before your chicken is ready, bring a pot of salted water to boil and cook your choice of pasta according to package instructions. You don’t want mushy pasta, so keep an eye on it.
- When the timer signals the end of cooking, shred the chicken using two forks right in the slow cooker. Stir it all to combine, making sure the chicken is evenly mixed with the creamy sauce. Drain your pasta and toss it in, ensuring every strand is coated in that delicious mix.
- Serve your Olive Garden chicken pasta warm, garnishing it with the freshly shredded or shaved Parmesan cheese. This is where that comforting aroma really shines!
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 700kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 30g47%
- Total Carbohydrate 70g24%
- Protein 50g100%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
- Don’t Skip the Dressing: This dressing is the heart of this recipe. It adds all the necessary flavor.
- Use Fresh Chicken: Fresh chicken will give the best results. Frozen ones may release excess moisture.
- Reserve Some Pasta Water: If the sauce seems thick, add a little pasta water to loosen it without losing flavor.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix in mozzarella or use a blend of cheeses for a different twist.
I’m Crystal Ivers, a registered dietitian and the creator of Easy Family Meal. Living in Chicago with my family, I’m passionate about helping busy families create simple, nutritious, and delicious meals. Through my blog, I share easy-to-make recipes and practical tips to make family mealtime enjoyable and stress-free.