Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo Recipe

There's nothing quite like indulging in the rich, creamy decadence of Olive Garden’s famous Chicken Alfredo. Imagine tender, juicy chicken paired with a luscious Alfredo sauce that clings perfectly to fettuccine. The comforting aroma of garlic, butter, and parmesan wafts through the air, instantly transporting you to your favorite Italian restaurant.

I remember the first time I recreated this recipe at home—it was a snowy evening, and we craved something hearty and soul-warming. To my surprise, this restaurant-quality dish came together with ease and quickly became a staple in our dinner rotation. Let’s dive into why this dish will become your go-to for special occasions and cozy nights alike.

Why You’ll Love This Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo

Get ready to bring restaurant-level flavor to your kitchen. This Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo is more than just a recipe; it’s a dinnertime hero that delivers on taste, ease, and family appeal.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. You’ll have everything ready in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.

Next, the flavors are absolutely irresistible. The Alfredo sauce is rich and creamy with just the right balance of parmesan and garlic, complementing the perfectly seasoned chicken and al dente fettuccine.

It’s also versatile. Whether you want to add extra veggies like broccoli or switch up the protein, this recipe adapts beautifully to your preferences.

Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser. From picky kids to discerning dinner guests, everyone loves the comforting, indulgent taste of this classic dish. Trust me, you’ll be asked for seconds (and the recipe)!

Ingredient Notes

The beauty of this Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo recipe lies in its simple yet high-quality ingredients. Each one is carefully selected to mimic the iconic flavors you know and love.

Chicken

Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook quickly and stay juicy when seasoned and seared to perfection. You can also use chicken thighs for a slightly richer flavor.

Fettuccine

Classic fettuccine pasta is the traditional choice, and its wide, flat shape holds onto the Alfredo sauce beautifully. If you’re out of fettuccine, tagliatelle or linguine work just as well.

Parmesan Cheese

For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-shredded options often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce's texture.

Heavy Cream

This recipe gets its luxurious texture from heavy cream, which provides richness without being overly heavy. You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce won't be as velvety.

Butter and Garlic

The base of the sauce starts with unsalted butter and minced garlic, creating a fragrant foundation that infuses the dish with incredible depth.

No special equipment is needed—just a large skillet and a pot for boiling pasta will do the trick!

How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo

Creating this delicious dish at home is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal on your table in no time.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook fettuccine according to package instructions. Aim for al dente, as the pasta will finish cooking in the sauce. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season both sides of your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, adding a drizzle of olive oil. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let rest before slicing.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently. Gradually whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring it melts smoothly into the sauce.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat each strand in the creamy Alfredo sauce. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency. Top with sliced chicken, garnish with additional Parmesan and chopped parsley, and serve immediately.

This entire process takes about 40 minutes, leaving you with plenty of time to savor the results.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store and enjoy your Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo again.

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: While the sauce’s texture may change slightly, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Freeze the chicken and pasta separately for best results.
• Reheating: Warm the dish in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

• Add Vegetables: Stir in steamed broccoli, peas, or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrients and texture.
• Swap the Protein: Use shrimp, grilled salmon, or even rotisserie chicken for a twist on the classic.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.
• Lighten It Up: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and swap butter for olive oil to cut calories without sacrificing flavor.
• Go Gluten-Free: Substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish accessible to everyone.

Experiment with these variations and find your perfect version of this classic recipe!

Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or satisfy a craving for creamy, cheesy comfort food, this Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo recipe is a must-try. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll create a dish that’s every bit as delicious as the restaurant version—if not better.

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