Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo Recipe

There's something magical about the creamy, indulgent Chicken Alfredo from Olive Garden. The tender chicken, velvety Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked fettuccine combine for a meal that's both comforting and luxurious. Now, you can recreate this restaurant favorite in your own kitchen!

I first decided to try making this dish at home after a family dinner at Olive Garden left us craving seconds. This recipe has become a household staple, especially for special occasions or when we want to feel like we're dining out—without leaving home.

Ready to make your kitchen smell like an Italian trattoria? Let’s dive in!

Why You'll Love This Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo Recipe

Get ready to impress your taste buds with this easy and irresistible copycat recipe. From its rich flavors to its simplicity, this dish will become your go-to comfort meal.

First and foremost, this Chicken Alfredo is as creamy and flavorful as the restaurant version. The Alfredo sauce, made with a blend of butter, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream, is pure indulgence.

It's a quick meal to pull together. In just 30-40 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality dinner ready, making it perfect for weeknights or impromptu dinner parties.

Another reason to love this recipe? It's family-friendly. Kids and adults alike can't resist the creamy sauce and tender chicken, making it a guaranteed hit at the dinner table.

Finally, it’s customizable. Swap out the chicken for shrimp, add steamed veggies, or use your favorite pasta shape. This recipe is flexible enough to suit any preference or dietary need.

Ingredients Notes

This copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo recipe uses simple, high-quality ingredients to create its signature flavor. Here’s what you’ll need and some tips to make it shine:

• Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. Pound them to an even thickness for consistent cooking. If you prefer darker meat, chicken thighs are a juicy alternative.
• Fettuccine Pasta: The wide, flat noodles of fettuccine are perfect for holding onto the rich Alfredo sauce. However, feel free to experiment with linguine, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of your sauce. It’s the base of the Alfredo and adds a rich, creamy texture.
• Heavy Cream: For that signature silky texture, heavy cream is a must. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce may not be as thick.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese is the star of the Alfredo sauce. For the best results, use freshly grated Parmesan instead of the pre-packaged kind. It melts more smoothly and adds a richer flavor.
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic is essential for flavoring the sauce. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can be a quick substitute.
• Olive Oil: A small amount of olive oil is used for cooking the chicken, ensuring it gets a golden-brown sear.

How to Make This Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo Recipe

Creating this restaurant-quality dish is simpler than you think. Here’s how to bring it to life in your own kitchen:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Set aside to rest before slicing.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to create a smooth mixture. Let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, then whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to adjust the consistency.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss the drained pasta into the sauce, ensuring every strand is coated. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

Cooking Tips

• To save time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
• Be careful not to boil the sauce after adding the cheese; it can cause separation.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for a subtle depth of flavor.

Storage Options

Have leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your homemade Chicken Alfredo:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools but can be loosened with a splash of milk or cream during reheating.
• Freezing: While the Alfredo sauce is best fresh, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Store portions in freezer-safe containers, and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the Alfredo gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from separating.

Variations and Substitutions

This Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Protein Swap: Replace the chicken with sautéed shrimp or grilled salmon for a seafood twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add steamed broccoli, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms for a veggie-packed version.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Serve the Alfredo sauce over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy variation.
• Cheese Blend: Mix in a bit of shredded mozzarella or Romano cheese for extra creaminess.

Don’t be afraid to get creative—this recipe is a perfect canvas for experimentation!

Making this Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo at home is not only satisfying but also a wonderful way to bring family and friends together over a delicious, comforting meal. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a special celebration, this recipe is guaranteed to impress!

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