Olive Garden Chicken Pasta in the Crockpot
This Olive Garden chicken pasta crockpot recipe is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights. With minimal effort, you can create a creamy, savory dish that serves the whole family. Tender chicken, rich sauce, and pasta come together in a delicious harmony that will remind you of your favorite restaurant.
Why Use a Crockpot?
Crockpots are a game-changer for home cooks. They allow you to prepare meals in advance, letting you enjoy a hearty dinner with minimal fuss. Just add your ingredients, set the timer, and let the slow cooker do the work while you go about your day!
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours on high or 6 hours on low
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (high) or 6 hours 15 minutes (low)
- Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 3 cups pasta (penne or rotini work well)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Pour the chicken broth over the chicken, ensuring it is well covered.
- Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Stir gently to combine.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6 hours.
- After cooking time, shred the chicken using two forks and stir back into the sauce.
- Cook the pasta separately according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the crockpot, stirring to combine with the chicken and sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for Perfect Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
For the best results, use high-quality chicken and fresh ingredients. You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. If you prefer a thicker sauce, consider reducing the chicken broth or adding more Parmesan cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad and garlic bread, making it a complete meal that everyone will love. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep for the week ahead.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to restore creaminess if needed.
Conclusion
This Olive Garden chicken pasta crockpot recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Its ease of preparation and comforting flavors make it ideal for any occasion. Try it today and enjoy a delicious, restaurant-quality meal at home!
