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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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.

Keywords

• Slow cooker chicken pasta
• Creamy Italian chicken
• Easy slow cooker recipes
• Italian dressing chicken
• Comfort food pasta
• Crockpot chicken pasta
• Weeknight dinner recipes
• Cream cheese chicken pasta
• One-pot pasta dishes
• Family-friendly meals

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