If you’re on the hunt for an easy, comforting dish that bursts with flavor and feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Crockpot Chicken with Olive Garden Dressing and Broccoli Bake Recipe. It’s a sensational blend of tender chicken bathed in that iconic zesty Italian dressing, paired with creamy cheese and fresh broccoli, all slow-cooked to perfection. This recipe nails the balance between wholesome and indulgent, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you crave something hearty without the fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two close-up views side by side of a slow cooker with food inside, set on a white marbled surface. The left side shows light brown pieces of cooked chicken inside a thick, creamy yellow sauce filling the bottom layer of the cooker, and a woman's hand holding a metal spoon lifting a scoop of the creamy sauce above the chicken. The right side shows a thick layer of bright green cooked broccoli florets placed on top of the creamy chicken mixture inside the slow cooker, with a dark spoon resting in the food. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the first step to creating a mouthwatering Crockpot Chicken with Olive Garden Dressing and Broccoli Bake Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role—whether it’s the zesty dressing that infuses every bite with Italian flair or the mozzarella cheese that adds that gooey, melty finish.

Chicken breast (3 ¼ lbs): The star of the show, providing juicy, tender protein that soaks up all the flavors beautifully.
Olive Garden Italian dressing (1 ¾ cups): Adds the perfect tangy, herbaceous punch that makes this dish uniquely delicious.
Cream cheese (2 oz, softened): Brings a rich, creamy texture that turns the sauce luxuriously smooth and comforting.
Garlic powder (1 tsp): A subtle hint of garlic that deepens the overall flavor without overpowering.
Black pepper (¼ tsp): Just a touch to enhance and balance the savory notes throughout.
Broccoli (1 steam bag, approx. 12-16 oz): Adds vibrant color, nutrition, and a pleasant crunch to contrast the creamy chicken.
Mozzarella cheese (2 cups shredded): Creates a bubbling, golden crust that makes every bite irresistibly cheesy and warm.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Crockpot Chicken with Olive Garden Dressing and Broccoli Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Layer the Ingredients

Start by placing your chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker—this acts as a delicious base for the rich flavors you’re about to add. Pour the Olive Garden dressing generously over the chicken to ensure every piece soaks up that famous Italian zest. Next, add the softened cream cheese along with garlic powder and black pepper to create a creamy, flavorful sauce that will meld together perfectly as it cooks.

Step 2: Slow Cook to Tender Perfection

Cover your slow cooker and set it on high for about 3 to 4 hours, or low for 5 to 6 hours. The goal is to make the chicken so tender it practically falls apart. Resist the urge to peek! Opening the lid lets heat escape and can increase cooking time, so patience will reward you with the best texture.

Step 3: Steam the Broccoli

About 10 minutes before the chicken finishes, steam your broccoli either using the bag instructions or your own method. This step keeps the broccoli vibrant green and just tender enough to complement the creamy chicken, adding an extra pop of color and nutrition.

Step 4: Shred and Mix

Once the chicken is cooked, take it out and shred it with two forks—this is such a satisfying step because you’ll see how juicy and tender it is. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and combine it well with the creamy sauce, coating every luscious shred.

Step 5: Assemble Into the Broccoli Bake

Transfer the chicken and sauce mixture into a 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Distribute the steamed broccoli on top to add that fresh, green crunch. Now, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella generously over the whole surface; this cheese layer will become the crowning glory of the dish.

Step 6: Broil for a Golden Finish

Slide the casserole under your preheated broiler for 2 to 5 minutes. Watch it closely—the cheese will bubble, melt, and develop those irresistible golden spots that make your Crockpot Chicken with Olive Garden Dressing and Broccoli Bake Recipe truly shine.

How to Serve Crockpot Chicken with Olive Garden Dressing and Broccoli Bake Recipe

The image shows a clear glass baking dish filled with a casserole. The bottom layer consists of shredded light brown chicken mixed with small broccoli florets scattered throughout. On top of this is a generous layer of white shredded cheese spread unevenly but largely covering the casserole. The casserole looks creamy with visible sauce pooling around the edges. The dish rests on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil adds a burst of color and herbal freshness that elevates this hearty dish beautifully. For an extra kick, a light dusting of crushed red pepper flakes pairs wonderfully with the creamy, cheesy flavors.

Side Dishes

This bake stands well on its own but also pairs brilliantly with a crisp side salad or garlic bread for soaking up that scrumptious sauce. If you want to stay low-carb, a simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, serve it in individual ramekins topped with a few broiled mozzarella crisps for a fun personal touch. Alternatively, you could scoop it over cauliflower rice to keep it light but still filling. The adaptability makes it a crowd-pleaser every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this Crockpot Chicken with Olive Garden Dressing and Broccoli Bake Recipe store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. That creamy sauce thickens and deepens in flavor overnight, making reheated bites even tastier.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave or gently in the oven at 350°F until heated through. If you want to revive that broiled cheesy topping crunch, pop the reheated bake under the broiler for a minute or two, watching carefully to prevent burning.

FAQs

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of the steam bag?

Absolutely! Fresh broccoli works beautifully. Just chop it into bite-sized florets and blanch them briefly to keep that bright green color and crisp-tender texture before adding to the bake.

Is there a way to make the sauce extra creamy?

Yes! Mix the softened cream cheese with a little bit of the Italian dressing before adding it to the slow cooker. If you have an immersion blender, blending the sauce for a few seconds creates a luxuriously silky consistency that’s out of this world.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

You can use an Instant Pot on the slow cook setting, following the same timing as a crockpot. Just take care not to open the lid during cooking. Alternatively, use the pressure cook function for a quicker version but adjust liquids accordingly.

What if I don’t have Olive Garden dressing? Can I substitute it?

The key to the signature flavor lies in the dressing’s blend of herbs and tanginess, so using another good-quality Italian dressing with similar flavor notes works fine. Homemade Italian dressing with garlic, oregano, and vinegar can also be a great alternative.

How can I make this recipe low-carb or keto-friendly?

This recipe is already low-carb thanks to the protein, cheese, and broccoli combo. Just watch the sugar content in your dressing and opt for a low-sugar Italian dressing to keep it keto-friendly.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the cozy satisfaction of this Crockpot Chicken with Olive Garden Dressing and Broccoli Bake Recipe. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to leftovers, it’s an effortless way to enjoy big, bold flavors with minimal effort. I promise once you try it, this dish will find a permanent spot in your meal rotation. So grab your slow cooker and get ready for some seriously delicious comfort food to fill your home with irresistible aromas.

Crockpot Chicken with Olive Garden Dressing and Broccoli Bake Recipe

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3.8 from 9 reviews

This Crockpot Chicken with Olive Garden Dressing is a delicious, low-carb, and creamy chicken recipe that cooks effortlessly in a slow cooker. Combining tender shredded chicken with Italian dressing, cream cheese, and mozzarella cheese, this dish offers a savory and comforting meal perfect for lunch or dinner. Added broccoli provides a healthy vegetable boost, while broiling the cheese on top delivers a golden, bubbly finish.

Author: Paula
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 17 minutes
Yield: 9 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American, Italian
Diet: Low Carb

Ingredients

Chicken Mixture

3 ¼ lbs chicken breast
1 ¾ cups Olive Garden Italian dressing
2 oz cream cheese, softened
1 tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp black pepper

Vegetables

1 steam bag of broccoli (typically 12–16 oz)

Topping

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (approximate measurement)

Instructions

Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
Add dressing and cream cheese: Pour the Olive Garden Italian dressing over the chicken. Add the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Cook the chicken: Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shreds.
Steam the broccoli: About 10 minutes before the chicken finishes cooking, steam the broccoli according to package instructions and drain thoroughly.
Shred the chicken: Remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks.
Combine chicken and sauce: Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir well to incorporate it with the sauce.
Preheat the broiler: Set your oven’s broiler to preheat while the chicken is being mixed.
Assemble casserole: Transfer the chicken and sauce mixture into a 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Add the steamed broccoli, distributing it uniformly over the chicken.
Add cheese topping: Sprinkle approximately 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Broil the casserole: Place the dish under the broiler for 2-5 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese is melted and golden brown in spots.
Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not open the crockpot during cooking as it will lengthen cooking time.
Fresh broccoli can be used instead of steamed; chop into bite-sized florets and blanch before adding.
Blanch fresh broccoli by boiling 2-3 minutes, then placing in ice water to keep it tender-crisp and vibrant.
Drain broccoli thoroughly to avoid excess water in the casserole.
For creamier sauce, soften cream cheese well and mix with a bit of Italian dressing before combining with chicken.
Broil the cheese topping carefully to get a bubbly, golden crust without burning.