Savory Italian-Inspired Slow Cooker Chicken Pasta is a delectable and flavorful chicken and pasta creation crafted effortlessly in a slow cooker. Let the slow cooker handle the cooking, resulting in a comforting and gratifying meal with a creamy twist inspired by Italian cuisine. In case you don’t have Olive Garden’s renowned dressing, fear not—homemade Italian Dressing is a simple and equally delicious alternative!
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken: Slow-cooked boneless, skinless chicken breasts, or opt for the succulence of chicken thighs.
- Italian Dressing: Recreate the magic of Olive Garden’s signature dressing at home if it’s not readily available.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh parmesan for superior flavor, using it both in the slow cooker and as a garnish.
- Chicken Broth: Keep the chicken moist and infuse flavor with chicken broth; chicken stock is a suitable alternative.
- Pasta: Choose penne pasta for its ability to hold up in the thick, creamy sauce, or express your creativity with your preferred pasta shape.
- Cream Cheese: Introduce creaminess and richness by adding cream cheese during the final 30 minutes of cooking.
How To Store Slow Cooker Chicken Pasta
For any leftovers, store the Savory Italian-Inspired Slow Cooker Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It remains delectable for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds (0.91 kg) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 bottle (16 ounces / 473 ml) Olive Garden Signature Italian dressing (or substitute with copycat dressings or knock-off brands)
- ¼ cup (25 g) finely grated parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
- 2 cups (473 ml) water
- 16 ounces (454 g) penne pasta
- 8 ounces (227 g) cream cheese
- Grated parmesan cheese for garnish
- Parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In the bowl of a 6-quart slow cooker, add chicken breasts, dressing, parmesan cheese, pepper, chicken broth, and water.
- Cover and cook on high for 2 hours or low for 5-6 hours, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F).
- Once cooked, remove chicken, shred with two forks.
- To the slow cooker, add uncooked pasta, cream cheese, and shredded chicken. Stir to combine. Cover and cook for 30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Serve garnished with parmesan cheese and parsley.
