Creamy Italian Slow Cooker Chicken Pasta: A Comforting Delight

Introduction

Slow cooker recipes are a lifesaver for busy days, allowing you to prepare delicious meals with minimal effort. This creamy Italian chicken pasta dish combines tender chicken, rich Italian dressing, and cream cheese to create a comforting and hearty meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 bottle (16 oz) Olive Garden Italian dressing
8 oz cream cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 pound penne pasta
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour the entire bottle of Olive Garden Italian dressing over the chicken.
Add the Cream Cheese: Cut the cream cheese into smaller chunks and place them on top of the chicken and dressing. This will allow it to melt evenly as it cooks.
Season the Dish: Sprinkle the garlic powder, black pepper, and Italian seasoning over the ingredients in the slow cooker. These spices will enhance the flavor of the dish.
Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Cook the Pasta: About 20 minutes before the chicken is done, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker. Stir well to combine the chicken with the creamy sauce.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the slow cooker and stir until the pasta is well coated with the creamy chicken mixture. Allow it to cook for an additional 15-20 minutes on low to let the flavors meld together.
Serve and Garnish: Serve the creamy Italian chicken pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This creamy Italian slow cooker chicken pasta is a perfect example of comfort food at its best. The rich flavors of the Italian dressing, cream cheese, and Parmesan blend beautifully with the tender chicken and pasta. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that requires minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen.