If you adore those rich, comforting flavors from your favorite Italian spot, then this Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s the perfect blend of tender chicken, creamy cheese, vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil all mingling with penne pasta to make one irresistibly cozy meal. What makes this recipe truly special is how effortlessly everything comes together in the slow cooker, letting you come back to a warm and hearty dish that tastes like you slaved over it for hours. Whether you’re craving a family dinner or a crowd-pleaser for guests, this recipe has got you covered with layers of flavor and a velvety texture that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, yet each one plays an essential role in creating the delightful taste, comforting texture, and beautiful colors of this dish. From the tangy Olive Garden Italian dressing that infuses the chicken with vibrant flavor, to the creamy cheese that binds everything together, every component is a star.
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast: The lean protein that becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender after slow cooking.
- 1 bottle (16 ounces) Olive Garden Italian Dressing: Brings that signature zesty and herb-infused flavor to soak right into the chicken.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided): Adds a nutty, savory punch and richness to the dish, balanced by a little sprinkled over the slow cooked mix and another part stirred in later.
- 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes (chopped): Pack a concentrated burst of sweet and tangy flavor along with gorgeous pops of color.
- 8 ounces cream cheese: For that luxuriously creamy, velvety texture that ties it all together perfectly.
- 4-5 basil leaves (torn): Fresh herbs that brighten the dish with a sweet, peppery aroma and lift the flavors beautifully.
- 1 pound penne pasta: The ideal pasta shape to hold onto sauce and ingredients, making each bite satisfyingly hearty.
How to Make Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Layer the Chicken and Dressing
Start by placing your boneless skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour the entire bottle of Olive Garden Italian Dressing over the chicken. This dressing infuses the meat with incredible flavor while keeping it moist during the long, slow cooking process.
Step 2: Add Parmesan, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Cream Cheese
Sprinkle half of the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken and dressing. Then scatter the chopped sun-dried tomatoes on top, which add a sweet and tangy contrast. Place the whole block of cream cheese right in the center atop everything; as it melts, it creates an irresistibly creamy sauce.
Step 3: Slow Cook Until Tender
Cover your slow cooker and cook the mixture on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for about 4 hours. The chicken will become fork-tender, soaking up all those vibrant flavors and the cream cheese will soften into a luscious sauce that you’ll want to savor.
Step 4: Cook the Penne Pasta
While the chicken cooks, boil the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Properly cooked pasta brings that perfect bite and texture to balance the creamy sauce and tender chicken.
Step 5: Shred Chicken and Combine Ingredients
Once the chicken is cooked, shred it using two forks right in the slow cooker so it soaks up even more sauce. Then stir in the torn basil leaves, the remaining Parmesan cheese, and the drained penne pasta. Mix everything gently but thoroughly to combine all those incredible flavors and textures.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
This dish is best enjoyed fresh and warm, so serve your Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta Recipe right away for that ultimate cozy, comforting experience.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Finish off your pasta with a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan or some fresh chopped basil to add that bright pop of color and flavor. For an extra touch, a drizzle of good quality olive oil or a few red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick that wakes up your taste buds beautifully.
Side Dishes
Since this pasta is quite rich and fulfilling, pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables is a perfect choice to add freshness and balance. Garlic bread or warm focaccia also complement the creamy sauce and bring a satisfying crunch to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta inside hollowed-out mini bell peppers or individual ramekins sprinkled with toasted breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping. You can even layer the chicken pasta in a casserole dish, top with mozzarella, and broil it briefly for a golden cheesy crust that’s irresistible.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making for an even tastier second helping. Just give it a quick stir before reheating to redistribute the sauce evenly.
Freezing
This Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta Recipe freezes well, too. Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently to keep the creamy texture flawless.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating. You can add a splash of milk or broth if it seems thick to bring back the creamy consistency that makes this dish so comforting.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken thighs will add extra richness and stay juicy during slow cooking, offering a slightly different but delicious texture and flavor.
What if I don’t have Olive Garden Italian dressing?
You can substitute with a good-quality Italian dressing from your grocery store or even a homemade mix of olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and Italian herbs for a similar flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can simmer the chicken and dressing mixture gently on the stove over low heat for about 1 to 1.5 hours until chicken is tender, but be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
To lighten it up, use reduced-fat cream cheese and Parmesan, and opt for whole wheat pasta. You can also add extra veggies like spinach or zucchini to boost nutrition and fiber.
How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook the penne just until al dente according to package instructions, then drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Mix the pasta into the slow cooker mixture right before serving rather than cooking it together to retain a perfect texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about coming home to a slow cooker full of creamy, flavorful comfort like this Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta Recipe. It’s effortless to prepare yet delivers when it comes to crowd-pleasing taste and cozy satisfaction. Whether it becomes a weekly staple or your go-to dinner for special occasions, you really cannot go wrong with this timeless combination of flavors. So grab your slow cooker and some Italian dressing, and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal you’ll want to make again and again!
Print
Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta recipe offers a creamy, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a comforting dinner. Tender chicken breasts are slow-cooked with Italian dressing, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and cream cheese to create a rich sauce, then tossed with al dente penne pasta and fresh basil for a restaurant-quality dish at home.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 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)
Pasta
- 1 pound penne pasta
Instructions
- Prepare Slow Cooker: Place the chicken breasts in a large slow cooker. Pour the entire bottle of Olive Garden Italian Dressing over the chicken, ensuring they are well coated.
- Add Cheese and Tomatoes: Sprinkle 1/4 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and dressing, then add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes on top. Place the block of cream cheese centrally on top of the chicken mixture.
- Slow Cook Chicken: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender enough to shred with a fork.
- Cook Pasta: While the chicken is finishing, cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Shred Chicken and Combine: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker along with the torn basil leaves, remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, and cooked penne pasta. Stir everything together thoroughly to combine and heat through if needed.
- Serve: Serve the pasta dish immediately while warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute the Olive Garden Italian Dressing with any good-quality Italian salad dressing if preferred.
- For creamier pasta, add a splash of milk or cream when mixing shredded chicken with the pasta.
- Sun-dried tomatoes add sweetness and depth; soaking them briefly in warm water can soften them if needed.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on stovetop or microwave.
- Use fresh basil for the best flavor, but dried basil can be substituted with about 1 teaspoon if fresh is not available.
