Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo Recipe

There's nothing like the rich, creamy taste of Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo to bring a little bit of restaurant magic into your home. Tender chicken, perfectly al dente pasta, and a luscious Alfredo sauce come together in this irresistible dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

this Recipe

The first time I made this dish, I was trying to recreate a memorable dinner without leaving the house. With a few simple ingredients and just a little effort, I found myself savoring the same creamy, comforting flavors. Let’s dive into how to bring this classic to your table!

Why You’ll Love This Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo

Get ready to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your kitchen. This Olive Garden-inspired Chicken Alfredo is not only indulgent but also incredibly easy to make.

First, it's quick to prepare. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a complete, satisfying dinner on the table, perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal.

It’s also versatile. You can customize the recipe to suit your preferences, whether you want to add extra veggies, swap the chicken for another protein, or make it vegetarian by skipping the chicken altogether.

And let's not forget the creamy Alfredo sauce! Made from scratch, it’s a rich blend of butter, cream, and cheese that’s far superior to anything you’d find in a jar. This sauce clings beautifully to the pasta, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Finally, it’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone. The combination of juicy chicken, velvety sauce, and comforting pasta is universally loved, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to the perfect Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo lies in its simple yet high-quality ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in achieving that signature flavor and texture.

Chicken breast is the star of this dish. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean, tender, and easy to cook. Make sure to season them generously to enhance their flavor.

Fettuccine pasta is the classic choice for Alfredo sauce, thanks to its wide, flat shape, which holds the creamy sauce beautifully. If you prefer, you can use another pasta shape, but fettuccine truly shines in this dish.

Butter and heavy cream form the base of the Alfredo sauce. They create a luxurious, velvety texture that coats the pasta perfectly. For a slightly lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the cream, but the sauce will be less rich.

Fresh garlic adds depth and a subtle kick to the sauce. Mince it finely or use a garlic press to ensure it blends seamlessly.

Parmesan cheese is essential for that signature Alfredo flavor. Grate it fresh for the best results—pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that can affect the sauce’s smoothness.

A sturdy skillet and a large pot for boiling pasta are all the equipment you need to bring this dish together.

How to Make This Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo

Creating this classic dish is surprisingly straightforward, with a few simple steps that ensure perfect results every time.

Start by cooking your pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until it’s just al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining, as this can help adjust the sauce consistency later.

While the pasta cooks, prepare the chicken. Heat a large skillet over medium heat, adding a drizzle of olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder, then sear them in the hot skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing it into strips.

In the same skillet, lower the heat and melt butter, stirring in the minced garlic. Cook for about a minute, just until fragrant. Add the heavy cream, stirring gently as it heats through.

Next, gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously to ensure the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce, creating a rich and creamy texture. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Combine the cooked fettuccine with the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. Arrange the sliced chicken on top, and garnish with a sprinkle of parsley for a pop of color.

This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, giving you a luxurious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), this dish stores well and can be enjoyed later.

To refrigerate, transfer the Chicken Alfredo to an airtight container and store it for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce’s creamy texture.

Freezing is also an option, though the sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is highly adaptable, so feel free to make it your own!

For a veggie-packed version, stir in steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms just before serving.

If you’re looking for a seafood twist, swap the chicken for shrimp or scallops. Both pair beautifully with the rich Alfredo sauce.

Want to add some spice? Sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a subtle kick.

For a heartier dish, toss in some crispy chicken strips or top with grilled chicken thighs for extra flavor.

Experimenting with herbs can also elevate the dish. Fresh basil or thyme can add a fragrant touch that complements the creamy sauce.

Whether you keep it classic or try a fun variation, this Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo is a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home!

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