Olive Garden Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish that’s easy to make at home. With tender chicken, rich cream cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a flavorful meal that feels just like your favorite restaurant—perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Why We Love This Olive Garden Chicken Pasta Recipe
There’s something inherently satisfying about a bowl of pasta, especially one that is so rich and creamy like Olive Garden Chicken Pasta. Not only is this dish a crowd-pleaser, but it is also super easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The unique blend of flavors from the Italian dressing and the cream cheese creates a sauce that beautifully coats the pasta and chicken, leaving you craving more. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal that cuts down on cleanup, which is always a win in the kitchen!
Ingredients about Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
To make your Olive Garden Chicken Pasta a reality, you will need the following ingredients. Each one contributes to the wonderful flavors and textures that make this dish so delectable.
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 bottle (16 ounces) Olive Garden Signature Italian dressing
- 1/4 cup (25 g) parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup (240 g) chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 16 ounces penne pasta
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- Grated parmesan cheese, for garnish
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Pasta Directions
Now that you have gathered the ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating your Olive Garden Chicken Pasta. This recipe is made easier by using a slow cooker, so you can set it and forget it; perfect for those busy days.
Begin by placing the chicken breasts in the bowl of your 6-quart slow cooker. Arrange them in a single layer for even cooking.
Pour the entire bottle of Olive Garden Signature Italian dressing over the chicken. This dressing not only acts as a marinade but also imparts a wonderful flavor to the dish.
Next, sprinkle the finely grated parmesan cheese and black pepper over the chicken. These seasonings will enhance the overall taste.
Then, add the chicken broth and water into the slow cooker. This broth will help keep the chicken moist and create a luscious sauce.
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on high for 2 hours or on low for 5–6 hours. You’ll know the chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and set it aside. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Now, it’s time to add the uncooked penne pasta to the slow cooker, along with the cream cheese. Stir everything together to ensure the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.
Cover the slow cooker again and set it to cook for an additional 30 minutes. Stir halfway through to make sure the pasta cooks evenly and absorbs all the flavorful juices.
Once the cooking time is up, give it one final stir and get ready to serve!
To plate your dish, scoop the creamy chicken pasta into bowls, and garnish with additional grated parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
How to Serve Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
Serving Olive Garden Chicken Pasta can be just as enjoyable as making it. There are several ways to present this hearty dish that will make it visually appealing and appetizing.
Serve the pasta hot, directly from the slow cooker or transfer it to a large serving dish. The creamy sauce should coat the pasta generously, creating a rich, inviting appearance. When garnishing, make sure to sprinkle a good amount of grated parmesan cheese on top. This not only enhances the taste but also adds a beautiful finishing touch.
For an extra flair, consider pairing your Olive Garden Chicken Pasta with a simple side salad. A salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can balance out the creaminess of the main dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, crusty garlic bread makes for a great accompaniment as well. Guests will appreciate this combination, and it creates a complete meal experience.
Expert Tips: Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
To ensure your Olive Garden Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
- Quality Chicken: Choose fresh, high-quality chicken breasts to get the best texture and flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken as an alternative.
- Adjust the Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on the size of your chicken breasts. Always check for doneness to guarantee juicy, tender chicken.
- Don’t Skip the Dressing: The Olive Garden Signature Italian dressing is a cornerstone of this recipe. Don’t substitute it with just any dressing; it adds a unique flavor that’s hard to replicate.
- Cream Cheese Enhancement: If you want an even creamier sauce, consider adding more cream cheese or even a splash of heavy cream before serving. This will thicken the sauce and make it even more indulgent.
- Taste as You Go: Before serving, taste the pasta and adjust any seasonings if necessary. You can add more parmesan cheese or black pepper depending on your preference.
How to Store Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
If you happen to have leftovers—or if you’re preparing this dish in advance—you’ll want to know the best way to store it.
To store Olive Garden Chicken Pasta, first allow it to cool completely. Then, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. It’s best to keep the pasta and sauce together for optimal flavor. Place the container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 3–4 days.
If you want to store the dish for a longer period, consider freezing it. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, making sure to leave some space at the top, as the pasta may expand. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.
Variation of Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
While the original recipe is absolutely delicious, you might want to experiment with some variations to keep things exciting. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli into the dish for added nutrition and flavor. Just toss them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Pasta Alternatives: Although penne pasta is a favorite for this recipe, feel free to try other shapes like fusilli, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese for unique flavors. Gouda, mozzarella, or even a hint of feta can alter the dish’s profile delightfully.
- Lemon Zest: Add a touch of lemon zest before serving to give your dish a refreshing lift. This contrast can brighten the flavors beautifully.
- Spice it Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a touch of hot sauce to the slow cooker. This will bring a kick to the dish that many find irresistible.
Frequently Asked Questions about Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
Now that you’re all set to create this delectable dish, you may have a few questions. Here are some common FAQs about Olive Garden Chicken Pasta:
Can I make Olive Garden Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. If you prefer, it can also be frozen and reheated when needed.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?
While it’s recommended to use fresh chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen ones. Just keep in mind that it may increase the cooking time.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check for doneness.
What other side dishes pair well with Olive Garden Chicken Pasta?
This dish goes wonderfully with a light salad, crusty garlic bread, or even steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Can I make a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with protein-rich alternatives like chickpeas or tofu and adjust the cooking time as needed. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a hearty vegetarian meal.
Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts Use fresh, high-quality chicken for best results.
- 1 bottle Olive Garden Signature Italian dressing (16 ounces) Essential for unique flavor.
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, finely grated Enhances the flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Provides seasoning.
- 1 cup chicken broth Keeps chicken moist.
- 2 cups water
- 16 ounces penne pasta Main starch for the dish.
- 8 ounces cream cheese Makes the sauce creamy.
- Grated parmesan cheese, for garnish
- Fresh parsley, for garnish Adds color and freshness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the chicken breasts in the bowl of your slow cooker in a single layer.
- Pour the Olive Garden Signature Italian dressing over the chicken.
- Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese and black pepper over the chicken.
- Add the chicken broth and water into the slow cooker.
Cooking
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on high for 2 hours or low for 5–6 hours until the chicken reaches 165°F.
- Remove the chicken and shred it into bite-sized pieces.
- Add the uncooked penne pasta and cream cheese to the slow cooker, stirring well.
- Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Give it one final stir and serve.
Serving
- Scoop the creamy chicken pasta into bowls and garnish with additional grated parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley.
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