Name: Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts; 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); 1 pound penne pasta

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This Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines tender shredded chicken, zesty Olive Garden Italian dressing, cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese, all tossed with penne pasta. It’s an easy-to-make, comforting meal that’s perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious with minimal effort!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is the epitome of comfort food, with its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken. The Olive Garden Italian dressing gives the chicken a bold, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy cream cheese and the richness of Parmesan. The sun-dried tomatoes add a pop of tang and texture, while the penne pasta brings everything together in a satisfying way. Best of all, it’s made in the slow cooker, which means dinner is ready with minimal prep time and maximum flavor!

Ingredients

2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
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)
1 pound penne pasta

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large slow cooker and pour the entire bottle of Olive Garden Italian Dressing over the chicken.
Add seasonings and cream cheese: Sprinkle 1/4 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken, then add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Place the block of cream cheese on top of the chicken.
Cook the chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and fork-tender.
Cook the pasta: While the chicken is cooking, cook the penne pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
Shred the chicken: Once the chicken is done, shred it using two forks. Add the torn basil leaves, the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, and the cooked penne pasta. Stir everything together to combine.
Serve: Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with extra basil or Parmesan if desired. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Add Veggies: You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the slow cooker for extra flavor and nutrition.
Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Gluten-Free Version: Swap the penne pasta with gluten-free pasta to make the dish gluten-free.
Use Chicken Thighs: For a more flavorful and juicy option, use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This dish freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if it gets too thick.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of dressing?

Yes, if you prefer, you can use another type of Italian dressing or even a balsamic vinaigrette for a different flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the chicken and dressing in the slow cooker and refrigerate it overnight. Then, just cook it the next day.

How can I make this recipe lighter?

You can use a lighter version of the dressing and cream cheese, or substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lower-fat alternative.

Can I use fresh basil instead of torn basil leaves?

Yes, fresh basil can be added at the end of cooking, or you can garnish with fresh basil just before serving.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the slow cooker along with the chicken for added heat.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta is a creamy, tangy, and comforting meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. The chicken cooks to perfect tenderness, soaking up all the flavor from the dressing and seasonings, while the cream cheese and Parmesan create a rich, velvety sauce. Paired with penne pasta, it’s a satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Try it today for a fuss-free, crowd-pleasing dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds!