Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo Recipe

There’s nothing quite like recreating the creamy, indulgent flavors of Olive Garden’s Chicken Alfredo right in your own kitchen. This copycat recipe delivers perfectly tender chicken, silky Alfredo sauce, and al dente pasta that rivals the restaurant favorite.

I remember the first time I had Olive Garden’s Chicken Alfredo—it was love at first bite! The rich, cheesy sauce and perfectly seasoned chicken made it an instant classic. Now, I make this at home for a comforting dinner that’s perfect for any occasion.

Let’s jump in and explore why this recipe is a must-try for Alfredo lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo

If you’ve ever craved Olive Garden’s iconic Chicken Alfredo, this homemade version is about to become your new best friend. It’s easier to make than you think, and every bite is just as creamy and satisfying.

First, the sauce is the star. Made with a blend of Parmesan cheese, butter, and heavy cream, it’s rich, velvety, and loaded with flavor. You’ll never settle for jarred Alfredo sauce again.

Second, this recipe is all about that perfectly seared chicken. With a simple seasoning blend and a quick pan-sear, the chicken turns out golden, juicy, and absolutely irresistible.

Plus, it’s an easy, one-pan recipe that comes together in about 30 minutes. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a date night in, this dish is always a hit.

Lastly, it’s a budget-friendly alternative to dining out. You’ll get the same restaurant-quality flavors without the price tag, and you can even customize it with your favorite add-ins.

Ingredients Notes

The key to nailing this Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo is in the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean and tender protein. You can also substitute chicken thighs for a slightly richer flavor.
• Pasta: Fettuccine is the classic choice for Alfredo, as its wide, flat shape holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully. You can also use penne, linguine, or gluten-free pasta.
• Butter and Heavy Cream: These are the base of the Alfredo sauce, creating that silky, luxurious texture. Opt for full-fat cream for the best results.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is non-negotiable for authentic flavor. Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly.
• Garlic: A couple of cloves of fresh garlic bring depth and aroma to the sauce. Minced garlic works best for even distribution.
• Seasonings: A blend of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning keeps the chicken flavorful without overpowering the creamy sauce.

You’ll also need olive oil for cooking the chicken and a large skillet or pot for bringing everything together.

How to Make This Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo

Making this Chicken Alfredo at home is simpler than you’d expect. Let me walk you through the steps:

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking your fettuccine until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining, as it can help adjust the sauce consistency later.
2. Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, season your chicken breasts with a mix of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and whisk until smooth. Let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, then stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese a little at a time, whisking until fully melted.
4. Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to coat every strand. If the sauce seems too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water. Top with the sliced chicken and garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.
5. Plate and Enjoy: Serve immediately while the sauce is warm and creamy. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for the ultimate Olive Garden experience.

Storage Options

Leftovers of this creamy Chicken Alfredo can be just as delightful the next day if stored properly. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Refrigerator: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Be sure to store the chicken and pasta together for the best flavor.
• Freezer: Alfredo sauce doesn’t freeze as well due to the cream, but you can freeze the chicken separately if needed. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Gently reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore its silky texture. Stir frequently to avoid separating the sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Shrimp Alfredo: Swap the chicken for sautéed shrimp for a seafood twist that’s equally indulgent.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add roasted vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, or zucchini for a hearty meat-free version.
• Extra Cheesy: Mix in some shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese for an even creamier, more decadent sauce.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and double-check that your Parmesan cheese is gluten-free for a dish everyone can enjoy.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce for a touch of heat.

Feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients to make this dish your own!

With its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, this Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo is a restaurant-quality dish you can easily recreate at home. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy dinner, it’s bound to impress everyone at the table. Give it a try tonight!

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