Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

Enjoy creamy and delicious Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta at home and save money. This dish is perfect for busy weekdays or cozy weekends, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort. Let your slow cooker do all the work while you savor the rich flavors of savory chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is designed for busy cooks.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of Italian dressing, cream cheese, and parmesan creates a creamy sauce that elevates the chicken and pasta.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please both kids and adults, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
• Versatile Meal: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
• Slow Cooker Convenience: Set it and forget it! The slow cooker does all the work while you focus on other things.

Tools and Preparation

Getting ready to make this delightful crockpot meal is simple! Here are the essential tools you’ll need to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring tender chicken and flavorful sauce without constant monitoring.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients, making preparation quick and easy.
• Mixing spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients together, ensuring an even distribution of flavors in your dish.

Ingredients

Enjoy creamy and delicious Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta at home with these ingredients:

For the Chicken Base

• 4 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (Diced)
• 16 oz. Olive Garden Italian Dressing
• 1 Tablespoon Minced Garlic
• 1/2 tsp Pepper
• 1/2 Cup Shredded Parmesan Cheese

For the Creamy Sauce

• 8 oz. Cream Cheese

For the Pasta

• 16 oz. Penne Pasta

How to Make Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Start by dicing the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
• Measure out your olive garden dressing, minced garlic, pepper, and shredded parmesan cheese.

Step 2: Combine in the Crockpot

• Place the diced chicken in the slow cooker.
• Pour in the olive garden dressing, then add minced garlic, pepper, and parmesan cheese.
• Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Cook It Low and Slow

• Cover the crockpot with its lid.
• Cook on low heat for 5-6 hours or on high for 3 hours.

Step 4: Add Cream Cheese

• About 30 minutes before serving, dice up the cream cheese.
• Stir it into the crockpot mixture until melted.

Step 5: Cook Your Pasta

• Meanwhile, cook your penne pasta according to package instructions in a separate pot.

Step 6: Combine Before Servings

• Once both are done cooking, stir the cooked pasta into the crockpot right before serving.
• Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta!

How to Serve Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta is a creamy delight that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green and nutritious, steamed broccoli adds a lovely crunch and color.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Perfect for dipping, these soft and buttery breadsticks complement the creamy pasta beautifully.

As a Casserole

• Baked Dish: Transfer the cooked pasta into a baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese, and bake until golden for a cheesy casserole twist.

Topped with Greens

• Fresh Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach right before serving for a pop of color and added nutrients.
• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds flavor but also enhances the presentation.

With Salad

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad pairs well with the richness of the pasta, providing a refreshing contrast.
• Caprese Salad: Combine fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for an Italian-inspired side that complements the flavors.

How to Perfect Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

To make sure your Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta turns out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Select high-quality chicken and dressing for the best flavor.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your slow cooker; cooking times may vary based on your model.
• Add Cheese at the Right Time: Make sure to add cream cheese during the last 30 minutes to ensure it melts smoothly without clumping.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to add herbs like oregano or basil for an extra layer of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

Pairing side dishes with your Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and flavorful mashed potatoes are always a hit alongside rich pasta dishes.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Tender roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil makes for a healthy and colorful side.
3. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and vinaigrette provides freshness and crunch.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil adds a nice bite before digging into your main dish.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and vegetables offer a satisfying alternative to traditional sides.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob brings sweetness and is easy to prepare alongside the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow cooking can be a breeze, but there are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Boldly skip the marinating: Not allowing the chicken to marinate in the dressing can result in less flavor. Always let the chicken soak up those delicious flavors for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• Boldly ignore the cooking time: Cooking on high for too long may dry out the chicken. Stick to the recommended times of 5-6 hours on low or 3 hours on high for tender results.
• Boldly overlook stirring: Failing to stir in the cream cheese can lead to clumps. Make sure to dice it and mix it in well during the last 30 minutes for smooth creaminess.
• Boldly forget about pasta prep: Adding uncooked pasta directly into the crockpot is a mistake. Cook it separately to ensure it doesn’t absorb too much sauce or become mushy.
• Boldly serve without garnishing: Neglecting to garnish can make your dish look unappealing. A sprinkle of extra parmesan or fresh herbs adds a lovely touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• This dish can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer pasta to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until heated evenly.
• Stovetop: In a pan over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water and stir frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute penne with any pasta shape you like. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make this dish healthier?

Consider using whole grain pasta and reducing the amount of cheese to lower calories while still enjoying great flavor.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in spinach or broccoli during the last hour of cooking for added nutrients.

How can I make this Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta vegetarian?

Replace chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of dressing for flavor.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken Pasta is not only creamy and delicious but also versatile and easy to customize. Whether you want extra veggies or different spices, this recipe adapts beautifully. Try it today and enjoy a comforting meal that everyone will love!