There’s something magical about the aroma of slow-cooked chicken wafting through your home, especially when it’s Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken. Imagine tender, juicy chicken simmering in a creamy, herb-infused sauce that dances on your taste buds and warms your soul. creamy Italian meatball soup Crockpot chicken tortellini This dish is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for those cozy evenings when all you want is to curl up with a heaping bowl of goodness. For more inspiration, check out this Italian sausage pasta soup recipe.
Picture this: It’s a rainy Sunday afternoon, and you’re wearing your favorite fuzzy socks, binge-watching that show everyone has been raving about. You glance at the clock and realize you forgot to prepare dinner. Fear not! With just a few ingredients and a trusty crockpot, you can whip up this delightful dish that will have everyone singing your praises.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The creamy sauce envelops the chicken in rich flavors that everyone will love
- Visually appealing with its vibrant colors, it looks stunning on any table
- Versatile enough to pair with pasta, rice, or veggies, it’s sure to please all palates
Every time I make this dish, my family erupts with joy as if I’ve just announced a surprise vacation.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
- Italian Dressing: Look for a good quality dressing; it adds zesty flavor and moisture to the chicken.
- Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for a rich and creamy texture that makes the sauce divine.
- Fresh Spinach: Adding fresh spinach at the end brings vibrant color and nutrients to the dish.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan enhances the flavor profile and creates an irresistible cheesy finish. cheesy ground beef enchiladas.
For the Sauce:
- Garlic Powder: A must-have for adding depth; fresh garlic works too if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Dried Basil and Oregano: These herbs are essential for that authentic Italian taste that makes this dish sing.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while contributing to a flavorful base.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Chicken: Start by placing the boneless chicken breasts in your Crockpot. Season them lightly with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors.
Add Some Zestiness: Pour Italian dressing over the chicken until it’s generously coated. The tangy zest will infuse into every bite as it cooks.
Create Creamy Goodness: Next, drop in blocks of cream cheese on top of the chicken—don’t worry if they look like they’re floating; they’ll melt into luxurious creaminess soon enough.
Add Herbs & Spices: Sprinkle garlic powder along with dried basil and oregano over everything. The aroma will be heavenly as it begins cooking throughout the day.
Pour in Chicken Broth : Carefully add chicken broth around the edges of the pot so as not to disturb your beautiful layers of flavor already forming.
Set It & Forget It!: Cover your Crockpot and set it on low for about 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Let those delicious smells fill your kitchen—it’s pure bliss!
After cooking time is complete, stir in fresh spinach until wilted for an extra pop of color and nutrition. Just before serving, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top to elevate the creaminess further.
And there you have it! A comforting bowl of Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken that tastes like a hug from Grandma but requires none of her secret kitchen skills! garlic parmesan crockpot chicken. For more inspiration, check out this creamy garlic chicken recipe.
Serve this delightful dish over pasta or rice; it’s also divine when paired with crusty bread for dipping into that luscious sauce. Enjoy every bite while soaking up compliments from friends or family who may think you’ve turned into a culinary wizard overnight!
You Must Know
- This Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken is about ease and flavor; perfect for busy days
- The aroma of garlic and herbs wafts through your home, making it feel like an Italian kitchen
- Serve it over pasta or rice for a family favorite that feels gourmet
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by seasoning the chicken generously, then sear it for a few minutes before adding to the crockpot. Layer the vegetables and sauces on top to allow flavors to meld beautifully during cooking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer leaner meat. Adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes can boost flavor and nutrients without altering the dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly tender chicken, avoid overcooking and check doneness with a meat thermometer
- Use fresh herbs instead of dried for better flavor impact
- Pair with crusty bread to soak up all those delicious juices!
Sometimes, I serve this dish at family gatherings, and everyone asks for seconds! They rave about how comforting and flavorful it is, always leaving happy bellies in its wake.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but ensure it cooks longer—at least 8 hours on low heat.
What can I serve with Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken?
Serve it over pasta or rice, with a side of garlic bread for extra indulgence.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to be safe to eat.
Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Crockpot Olive Garden Chicken is a warm, comforting dish that fills your home with irresistible aromas. This recipe features tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich, creamy sauce infused with Italian herbs and spices. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, it’s versatile enough to serve over pasta or rice, making it a family favorite. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, you’ll be raving about this dish just like your guests will!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Italian dressing
- 8 oz cream cheese (full-fat)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the Crockpot and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Pour Italian dressing over the chicken to coat thoroughly.
- Add blocks of cream cheese on top of the chicken.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, basil, and oregano over the mixture.
- Pour chicken broth around the edges of the pot.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Stir in fresh spinach until wilted before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Substitute chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Add sun-dried tomatoes for extra taste and nutrition. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently.