When it comes to comforting, creamy, and flavorful meals that you can set and forget, Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta fits perfectly. This dish takes all the best parts of classic Olive Garden chicken alfredo pasta and brings them right into your slow cooker. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a rich, cheesy, and delicious dinner ready in hours without any hassle. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe saves time, effort, and money while delivering big on taste.
Why We Love This Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
You’re going to love this recipe because it’s incredibly easy to make and packed with flavor. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the chicken to soak up the zesty Italian dressing and garlic while cooking to tender perfection. Cream cheese adds a velvety creaminess that blends perfectly with parmesan cheese to create a sauce that coats the pasta just right. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it dish that fills your home with an inviting aroma and guarantees a satisfying meal every time. Plus, you avoid the mess and stress of juggling multiple pots and pans.
Ingredients for Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
Here’s everything you need to create this delicious slow cooker meal:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 16 ounces of Olive Garden Italian dressing
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces cream cheese, diced
- 16 ounces penne pasta
How to Make Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
Start by placing your diced chicken breasts into the crockpot. Pour the entire bottle of Italian dressing over the chicken, then add the minced garlic, black pepper, and shredded parmesan cheese. Stir everything lightly to combine the flavors. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for about 5 to 6 hours, or on high for 3 hours if you’re short on time. This slow cooking infuses the chicken with the herbs and spices in the dressing, making it tender and flavorful.
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the diced cream cheese to the crockpot. Stir it in gently so it melts evenly and blends into a smooth, creamy sauce. Meanwhile, cook the penne pasta separately according to the package instructions until al dente. Once both the pasta and sauce are ready, combine the pasta with the crockpot mixture. Stir well so every piece of pasta gets coated in that rich, cheesy sauce. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
How to Serve Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
This dish is wonderful on its own, but you can easily elevate your meal with simple sides. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad dressed lightly with lemon or balsamic vinegar to balance the richness of the pasta. Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition to your plate. If you want to add some crunch, sprinkle extra parmesan cheese or crushed toasted breadcrumbs on top just before serving. For a cozy family dinner, pair the pasta with warm garlic bread or soft dinner rolls to mop up the delicious sauce.
Expert Tips for Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
To make the best version of this recipe, here are some tips from experience:
- Use fresh garlic instead of pre-minced for a more vibrant flavor.
- Dice the chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking throughout.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 15 minutes of slow cooking to let some liquid evaporate.
- Avoid overcooking the pasta by cooking it separately and stirring it in just before serving.
- For added freshness, sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top after serving.
- To reduce sodium, choose a low-sodium Italian dressing or make your own dressing with herbs and olive oil.
- If cream cheese isn’t your favorite, you can swap it with a soft cheese like mascarpone for a different creamy texture.
How to Store Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
Storing leftovers properly will keep your dish fresh and tasty for later. Transfer any uneaten pasta into an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. It should keep well for 3 to 4 days in the fridge. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If you want to freeze it, place the pasta in a freezer-safe container and consume within 2 months for best quality. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations of Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences:
- Swap penne pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to fit your dietary needs.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach during the last hour of cooking for extra veggies.
- For a touch of spice, stir in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños with the garlic.
- Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts for quicker preparation.
- Replace cream cheese with coconut cream to make a dairy-free version.
- Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to boost flavor complexity.
- Garnish with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for added texture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Penne pasta is recommended because its tube shape holds the creamy sauce well, but you can also use rotini or rigatoni for a similar effect.
Can I prepare this recipe without a crockpot?
Yes, you can cook the chicken and sauce in a large skillet on the stovetop. Simmer until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens, then toss with cooked pasta.
How do I keep the chicken tender?
Cooking the chicken slowly on low heat helps it stay juicy and tender. Avoid cooking on high for too long as it can dry out the meat.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. Store leftovers in freezer-safe containers and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can skip the chicken and add hearty vegetables like zucchini or eggplant, but keep in mind it will alter the flavor and protein content.
How can I reduce calories in this dish?
Use light cream cheese and a low-fat parmesan cheese alternative, and serve with a side of steamed vegetables instead of bread.
Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (diced)
- 16 ounces Olive Garden Italian dressing
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces cream cheese (diced)
- 16 ounces penne pasta
Instructions
- Place diced chicken breasts into the crockpot. Pour the Italian dressing over the chicken, then add minced garlic, black pepper, and shredded parmesan cheese. Stir to combine.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours, or on high for 3 hours.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the diced cream cheese to the crockpot, stirring gently until melted.
- Meanwhile, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Once the pasta and sauce are ready, combine them in the crockpot, stirring well to coat the pasta in the sauce. Serve immediately.
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