Olive Garden Chicken Pasta Crockpot: An Easy Dinner Idea
Are you looking for a simple yet delicious dinner that captures the beloved flavors of Olive Garden? This Olive Garden Chicken Pasta made in a crockpot is the answer! With tender chicken, a creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a meal that will satisfy your cravings and leave you with minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxing weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
4 hours
Total Time
4 hours 10 minutes
Servings
4-6 servings
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup spinach (fresh or frozen)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, heavy cream, ranch seasoning mix, and grated Parmesan cheese until combined.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.
- Add the diced tomatoes and spinach on top of the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Once the chicken is done, shred it with two forks inside the crockpot and stir everything together.
- Mix in the cooked fettuccine pasta. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.
This Olive Garden Chicken Pasta is not just easy to make; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, swapping out the pasta for a gluten-free option, or even using different proteins. The creamy, flavorful sauce is what truly makes this dish special, and it pairs wonderfully with a side salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
1. Use Quality Ingredients
For the best flavor, use high-quality chicken and fresh vegetables. Fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes will enhance the overall taste of the dish.
2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken
Keep an eye on the cooking time! Overcooked chicken can become dry, so make sure to shred it as soon as it’s cooked through for the best texture.
3. Customize Your Pasta
Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta! Penne, rigatoni, or even gluten-free options work beautifully in this recipe.
4. Add More Flavor
If you want to amp up the flavor, consider adding minced garlic, Italian seasoning, or even a splash of white wine to the sauce.
Conclusion
This Olive Garden Chicken Pasta crockpot recipe is a fantastic dinner idea that brings the restaurant experience into your home. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and sure to satisfy everyone at your table. Give it a try for your next family meal, and enjoy the smiles around the dinner table!
