Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-6 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Serving Size: 6-8 servings
Why You’ll Love It
This Olive Garden Chicken Pasta is a dump and go recipe, perfect for those who want a meal with minimal effort. It features tender chicken cooked in a creamy sauce made with Olive Garden Italian dressing, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to customize to your taste!
How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast
- 1 bottle (16 ounces) Olive Garden Italian Dressing
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini work well)
- Ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Spray the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or use a liner for easy cleanup.
- Add Chicken and Dressing: Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and pour the entire bottle of Olive Garden Italian dressing over them.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the chicken, then place the block of cream cheese on top. Add a pinch of black pepper if desired.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Cook the Pasta: About 20-30 minutes before serving, boil the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove the lid from the slow cooker and shred the chicken with two forks. It should fall apart easily.
- Combine Everything: Stir the shredded chicken and cream cheese mixture until smooth. Add the cooked pasta and stir to combine.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with warm breadsticks or garlic bread for a cozy dinner.
- Add a side salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
Tips for Customization
- Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Chopped sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of flavor and color.
- Fresh Basil: Torn basil leaves can enhance the dish with freshness.
- Spice It Up: Add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
Per serving (assuming 6 servings):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking or adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: What type of pasta is best?
A: Penne or rotini work well because they hold onto the creamy sauce nicely.
Q: Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can cook it in a large skillet on the stovetop or in the oven, but it will require more attention and stirring.
Q: How do I make the sauce smoother?
A: Use a stick blender to blend the sauce right in the slow cooker for a smoother consistency.Enjoy your delicious Olive Garden Chicken Pasta!
