Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the indulgent taste of Olive Garden’s Chicken Alfredo – creamy, savory, and utterly irresistible. The silky sauce clings to every bite of tender pasta, while perfectly seasoned chicken elevates the dish into something truly special.

this Recipe

I still remember my first bite at Olive Garden, the comforting flavors making me feel like I was dining in a cozy Italian villa. Since then, recreating that iconic dish at home has become a family tradition, and I’m so excited to share this easy, budget-friendly version with you!

Ready to master this restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo

This recipe brings all the charm of Olive Garden’s famous Chicken Alfredo right to your dinner table. Here’s why it’s going to become a staple in your home:

First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. Despite its luxurious taste, you only need simple pantry staples and a few quick steps to whip up this meal. Even beginners can achieve restaurant-quality results!

The creamy Alfredo sauce is the star of the show. Made from scratch, it combines butter, garlic, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan for a luscious texture and rich flavor that’s irresistible.

It’s a family-friendly favorite. From kids to adults, everyone loves this dish. Plus, you can easily customize it with your favorite pasta shapes or extra veggies.

And finally, this recipe saves you money without sacrificing taste. Skip the restaurant bill and create this at home for a fraction of the price – perfect for cozy weeknights or even a special occasion.

Now that you’re convinced, let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to make it!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Olive Garden’s Chicken Alfredo lies in its combination of high-quality yet straightforward ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of the key components:

• Chicken Breasts: For this recipe, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best. They’re easy to cook evenly and develop a delicious golden crust when seared. Alternatively, chicken thighs can be used for a slightly richer flavor.
• Fettuccine: The classic choice for Alfredo, fettuccine is wide and flat, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. You can substitute with linguine, penne, or gluten-free pasta if preferred.
• Butter and Garlic: These two ingredients form the aromatic base of the Alfredo sauce. Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish.
• Heavy Cream: This is essential for achieving the sauce’s signature richness. You can use half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce won’t be as thick or luxurious.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is non-negotiable for this recipe. Pre-grated varieties won’t melt as smoothly and can make the sauce grainy.
• Seasonings: A pinch of salt, black pepper, and a touch of Italian seasoning bring out the dish's flavors without overpowering them.

No special equipment is needed – just a large skillet, a pot for boiling pasta, and your favorite serving dishes to plate this beauty!

How To Make This Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo

Recreating Olive Garden’s Chicken Alfredo is simpler than you might think. Let me walk you through the process step by step:

1. Cook the Chicken: Begin by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of olive oil, and sear the chicken until golden on both sides and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Boil the Pasta: While the chicken cooks, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with a touch of olive oil to prevent sticking.
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. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt fully into the sauce.
4. Combine and Serve: Slice the chicken into thin strips. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat every strand. Top with the chicken slices and garnish with extra Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley if desired.

This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend meal.

Storage Options

Have leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store and reheat your Chicken Alfredo for maximum flavor:

• Refrigeration: Store the chicken and pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the sauce separate, as it can thicken when chilled.
• Freezing: While the sauce may not be as creamy after freezing, it’s still possible. Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the sauce to separate.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Here are some ideas to customize your Chicken Alfredo:

• Add Vegetables: Stir in steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for added flavor and texture.
• Try a Different Protein: Swap the chicken for shrimp, grilled steak, or even crispy tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Go Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or season the chicken with Cajun spices for a kick of heat.
• Healthier Version: Use whole wheat pasta, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, or add a handful of spinach for extra nutrients.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary for a fragrant twist.

No matter how you customize it, this Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Recreate the magic of Olive Garden in your own home with this easy, delicious Chicken Alfredo recipe. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a family gathering, this dish brings everyone together around the table. Happy cooking!

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