Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you’re searching for a dish that wraps you in creamy comfort and tastes just like your favorite Italian restaurant, Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta is about to claim top spot on your weekly dinner rotation. This recipe lets you indulge in all the cozy, decadent flavors of a classic Olive Garden chicken alfredo without ever putting on real pants or leaving your kitchen. Toss everything into your slow cooker, let those savory aromas waft through your home, and gear up for a pasta night that’s both irresistibly rich and incredibly easy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta is how it uses everyday, familiar ingredients — yet when combined, they deliver restaurant-quality flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays a starring role, so don’t be tempted to skimp or swap! Here’s what you’ll need to bring this creamy classic to life:

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Amp up the protein with lean, tender pieces that soak up all the Italian flavors without getting dry.
• Penne pasta: Penne holds onto that luxurious sauce like a champ, making every bite deliciously creamy.
• Low-sodium chicken broth: Adds depth and keeps the chicken moist as it cooks low and slow in the crock pot.
• Dry Italian dressing mix: The secret weapon for that signature zing and herby savoriness reminiscent of Olive Garden.
• Kosher salt: Brings out all the flavors with just the right touch, divided for both chicken and sauce.
• Black pepper: A gentle pop of warmth runs through every layer, enhancing the creamy base.
• Half & half: Lends an ultra-silky texture that makes the sauce rich without being overwhelming.
• Heavy cream: For full-on creaminess and body — after all, this is pasta alfredo!
• Grated parmesan cheese: Salty, nutty, and melty, this is the backbone of your alfredo sauce.
• All-purpose flour: Helps thicken up the sauce so it clings to every piece of pasta.
• Unsalted butter: Adds decadent flavor and a touch of golden shine to the finished sauce.
• Grated fresh garlic: Infuses every bite with bold garlicky goodness, balancing out the richness.
• Dried parsley: For pops of color and a gentle herbal lift throughout the sauce.
• Fresh parsley (optional garnish): Sprinkle on top at the end to make your pasta look (and taste) extra special.

How to Make Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepping the Chicken and Seasonings

Start by laying your boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Sprinkle over half of the kosher salt and black pepper, then evenly coat the chicken with the dry Italian dressing mix. This is where the magic starts: as the chicken cooks, it soaks up all those fragrant, herby flavors, ensuring every bite is anything but bland.

Step 2: Adding Broth and Slow Cooking

Pour the chicken broth over the seasoned chicken, popping the lid on the slow cooker. Set it to HIGH and let it cook for 4 hours. The broth not only keeps everything juicy, but also helps create the base for your dreamy sauce later on. Don’t peek or stir — let the slow cooker perform its hands-off wonders.

Step 3: Shredding the Chicken

When the chicken is melt-in-your-mouth tender, remove it from the slow cooker and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. This step is both oddly satisfying and key to getting that signature Olive Garden texture.

Step 4: Reserving Liquid and Returning Chicken

Pour out all but one cup of the rich, seasoned cooking liquid left in your slow cooker. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, then add back your reserved cup of broth to keep everything moist and flavor-packed while you prep your pasta and sauce.

Step 5: Cooking the Pasta

Boil your penne pasta according to the instructions on the package — usually around 8 to 10 minutes for perfect al dente. Drain the pasta well, so it’s ready to soak up every drop of that luscious homemade sauce.

Step 6: Making the Creamy Alfredo Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until just golden. Whisk in the flour nice and quick, making sure to banish any lumps. Next, stir in the remaining salt, pepper, grated garlic, and dried parsley. Gradually pour in the half & half and heavy cream, whisking constantly so you achieve a smooth, silky consistency without any surprises. Let the mixture simmer for 5 to 6 minutes until thick and bubbling, then take it off the heat and stir in the parmesan until completely melted and combined.

Step 7: Bringing It All Together

Add the drained pasta right into your slow cooker with the shredded chicken. Pour the hot, creamy alfredo sauce over everything, then give it a good stir so every single pasta tube is coated in cheesy, garlicky goodness. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle over the fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

Finish your Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta with a flourish of freshly chopped parsley and maybe a shower of extra parmesan. This not only makes your dish Instagram-ready, but adds freshness and a pop of color that ties it all together. If you like a hint of spice, a pinch of cracked black pepper or red chili flakes on top is wonderful too.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp Caesar salad, classic Olive Garden-style breadsticks, or even some steamed broccoli for a touch of green. The creamy sauce begs for something with a little crunch or freshness on the side, so feel free to serve it with your favorites — roasted veggies and a tangy vinaigrette are also perfect companions.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta in a family-style platter, topped with a drift of parmesan and a scattering of parsley for dramatic effect. Or ladle it into individual bowls and top each with a swirl of sauce and a decorative parsley leaf. For a fun twist, pile the pasta into baked bread bowls for an extra indulgent restaurant-style touch right at home!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, transfer them into airtight containers once cooled to room temperature. The flavors meld even more overnight, making for a super satisfying lunch the next day. Store in the refrigerator and enjoy within 3 to 4 days for best texture and taste.

Freezing

Portion any extra Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Lay them flat in your freezer for easier stacking and faster thawing. You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Just know that creamy sauces can separate slightly after freezing, but a gentle stir while reheating usually brings it right back together.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of milk or broth to help loosen up the sauce as you warm it over medium heat on the stovetop. If you’re microwaving, use 50-70 percent power and stir every minute or so to keep the creamy texture smooth. Finish with a fresh sprinkle of parmesan and parsley before serving to revive that just-cooked flavor.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great swap in Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta. They stay extra juicy and will absorb all those Italian-inspired flavors beautifully. Just trim any excess fat for the best results.

Is there a way to lighten up this dish?

You can make some easy tweaks, like using all half & half instead of heavy cream or opting for less cheese, but keep in mind the sauce may be a bit less rich. For a veggie boost, stir in some steamed spinach or roasted broccoli.

Do I have to cook the pasta separately?

For the best texture, it’s recommended to cook the pasta separately and then combine it with the chicken and sauce at the end. This keeps the noodles perfectly al dente and prevents the sauce from getting too thick or gummy.

Can this be made gluten-free?

Definitely! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and swap regular flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just be sure to check all labels, especially the Italian dressing mix, for any hidden gluten.

How do I get the sauce extra smooth and not lumpy?

The key is to whisk the flour fully into the melted butter before adding liquids, and then add the cream slowly while whisking constantly. This ensures a silky, lump-free alfredo sauce every single time.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to treat yourself to a true comfort food favorite, Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta promises big flavor with minimal hands-on work. This recipe is the answer to busy weeknights, cozy Sundays, or any time you need a creamy, satisfying pasta you can rely on. Gather your ingredients and get ready to delight your family and friends — they’ll be asking for second helpings before you know it!

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