Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken

Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken is a creamy, flavorful, and oh-so-easy recipe perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts are slow-cooked in a rich sauce made with Olive Garden Italian dressing, cream cheese, and Parmesan, creating a savory, tangy dish that’s irresistible. Serve it over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal the whole family will love!

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken Recipe

This dish is a dream come true for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts slow-cooked in a creamy, tangy sauce made with Olive Garden’s famous Italian dressing, cream cheese, and Parmesan. It’s comfort food that tastes like a special occasion but requires minimal effort.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken

• Sear the Chicken: For added depth of flavor, sear the chicken in a skillet for a few minutes on each side before placing it in the crockpot.
• Adjust the Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the seasonings to suit your taste. Red pepper flakes add a nice kick, while garlic powder can boost the savory profile.
• Make It Creamier: If you want an ultra-creamy sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end.
• Add Vegetables: Throw in some veggies like spinach or bell peppers during the last hour of cooking to make it a complete meal.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Olive Garden Chicken: Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
• Cheesy Olive Garden Chicken: Stir in shredded mozzarella or provolone for an extra cheesy finish.
• Mediterranean Twist: Add olives, artichoke hearts, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean-inspired version.

How to Serve Your Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken

This creamy, flavor-packed chicken can be served in several delicious ways:

• Over Pasta: Spoon the chicken and sauce over cooked fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne.
• With Rice: A bed of fluffy white or brown rice perfectly absorbs the creamy sauce.
• Mashed Potatoes: For the ultimate comfort food experience, serve it over buttery mashed potatoes.
• Low-Carb Options: Serve over zoodles (zucchini noodles) or cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist.

How to Store and Reheat

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: This dish freezes beautifully! Place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and add more flavor to the dish. The cooking time will remain the same.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free version and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute. The texture and flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.

Is it possible to make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can make this recipe in an Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then do a quick release. Shred the chicken and stir everything together.

What if I don’t have Olive Garden dressing?

If you don’t have Olive Garden Italian dressing, you can use any robust Italian dressing, though the flavor won’t be an exact match.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken is a versatile and foolproof meal that brings the taste of a beloved restaurant dish right to your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it to your family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it out, customize it to your liking, and let me know how it turns out in the comments below.

Try these other crockpot recipes:

• Crock-Pot Chicken Tacos
• Crockpot Whole Chicken
• Crock Pot Chicken and Gravy