Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo Recipe

Bring the taste of Olive Garden’s iconic Chicken Alfredo into your own kitchen with this simple, crowd-pleasing recipe. Featuring tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a dish that always hits the spot.

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I remember my first time trying Olive Garden’s Chicken Alfredo – the creamy sauce and juicy chicken left a lasting impression. Now, I recreate it at home whenever I’m craving that restaurant-quality flavor, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo

This recipe is the ultimate comfort food and perfect for any occasion. Here’s why you’ll love it:

1. Creamy and Indulgent: The rich, velvety Alfredo sauce coats every strand of pasta and piece of chicken, making every bite a luxurious experience.
2. Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can recreate this iconic dish in less than 30 minutes.
3. Family Favorite: Picky eaters? No problem. This recipe is a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.
4. Restaurant Quality at Home: Skip the takeout and enjoy a dish that’s just as good – if not better – than the original.

Ingredients Notes

Recreating Olive Garden’s Chicken Alfredo starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best. Slice them into even fillets for quicker, even cooking.
• Pasta: Fettuccine is the classic choice, but you can use linguine or spaghetti if preferred.
• Heavy Cream: This is the base of the Alfredo sauce. For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.
• Butter and Garlic: These create a flavorful foundation for the sauce. Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is a must for that authentic Olive Garden taste. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it doesn’t melt as smoothly.
• Olive Oil: Used for cooking the chicken, adding a subtle depth to the dish.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.

How To Make Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo

Recreating this dish at home is straightforward and satisfying. Follow these steps:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest.
2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Slowly pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Add the Cheese: Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a handful at a time, until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
5. Combine Everything: Slice the cooked chicken into strips. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, coating it thoroughly. Top with the sliced chicken.
6. Serve: Garnish with extra Parmesan, chopped parsley, or a sprinkle of black pepper for a restaurant-worthy presentation. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though it’s rare!), here’s how to store and reheat your Chicken Alfredo:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the Alfredo sauce separately for up to 1 month. Avoid freezing the pasta, as it may become mushy upon reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to restore its creamy consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Protein Options: Swap chicken for shrimp, grilled salmon, or even a vegetarian alternative like sautéed mushrooms.
• Pasta Alternatives: Use penne, rigatoni, or zucchini noodles for a different texture or a low-carb option.
• Cheese Substitutes: Add a mix of Pecorino Romano or Gruyère for a twist on the classic flavor.
• Add Veggies: Stir in steamed broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition and color.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a hint of heat.

Final Thoughts

This Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo recipe brings the magic of dining out right into your kitchen. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress every time. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy dinner, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your household. Enjoy!

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