Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo Recipe

There's nothing quite like the creamy, dreamy comfort of Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo. This iconic dish brings together tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce that's simply irresistible.

this Recipe

I remember the first time I tasted this dish at Olive Garden; it felt like a warm hug in a bowl. Now, I’m thrilled to share how you can recreate this restaurant favorite at home. It's surprisingly simple, perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Let’s dive into the details and bring the taste of Olive Garden to your kitchen!

Why You'll Love This Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo

Get ready to discover your new go-to pasta recipe. This Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo has everything you love about the original – and then some.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of simple ingredients and less than 30 minutes of active cooking time, you’ll have a dish that tastes like it came straight out of a professional kitchen.

It’s also a crowd-pleaser. The creamy Alfredo sauce is rich and satisfying, while the tender chicken and perfectly al dente pasta make this a meal everyone will enjoy. Even picky eaters will ask for seconds!

This recipe is also budget-friendly. Instead of dining out, you can feed your entire family for a fraction of the cost, without sacrificing any of that indulgent flavor.

Lastly, it’s versatile. Whether you want to swap out the protein, try a different pasta shape, or even make it vegetarian, there are endless ways to customize this dish. Let’s move on to the ingredients and see what makes this recipe so special.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients. Each one is carefully chosen to create the perfect balance of flavors.

Chicken breasts are the star protein here. Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for ease and uniform cooking. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well too, offering a slightly richer flavor.

Fettuccine pasta is the classic choice for Alfredo. Its wide, flat shape holds onto the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is coated in creamy goodness. You can substitute it with linguine or even penne if that’s what you have on hand.

Heavy cream forms the base of the Alfredo sauce, giving it that luxurious texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.

Butter and garlic add depth to the sauce. Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness, and fresh garlic for the best flavor.

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is non-negotiable. Pre-grated cheese often contains additives that can affect the sauce’s texture. Grating your own Parmesan ensures a smooth, creamy sauce.

If you have a large skillet and a good whisk, you’re all set to make this dish like a pro. Now that we’ve got the ingredients down, let’s jump into the cooking process.

How To Make This Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo

Creating this restaurant-worthy dish at home is easier than you might think. Follow these steps for the perfect Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo every time.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions, ensuring it’s al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining – this can help adjust the sauce’s consistency later.

While the pasta cooks, prepare the chicken breasts. Season them generously with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a splash of olive oil. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let it rest before slicing into thin strips.

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can turn bitter.

Pour in the heavy cream and whisk to combine. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, then stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue whisking until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the sauce. Plate the pasta and top it with the sliced chicken. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired. Your homemade Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo is ready to serve!

Storage Options

Leftovers of this creamy dish can be just as delicious when stored properly. Here’s how to keep your Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo fresh.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool the dish completely before sealing the container.

When reheating, use a skillet over low heat for the best results. Add a splash of milk or cream to help rehydrate the sauce as it warms. Avoid microwaving, as this can cause the sauce to separate.

For longer storage, you can freeze the Alfredo sauce on its own for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently before tossing it with freshly cooked pasta and chicken.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so don’t be afraid to get creative!

Swap the chicken for shrimp or scallops for a seafood twist. Just cook the seafood separately and add it to the finished dish.

Looking for a vegetarian option? Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.

If you’re watching your carbs, try using zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of fettuccine. The sauce pairs just as well with veggie noodles!

Want to spice things up? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of Cajun seasoning to the Alfredo sauce for a little kick.

Finally, for a gluten-free version, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta. The sauce itself is naturally gluten-free, so it’s an easy swap.

Experiment with these variations and make this Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo truly your own. No matter how you customize it, this recipe is bound to be a hit with family and friends!

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