olive garden chicken recipe
The Best olive garden chicken recipe
I’ve made Olive Garden’s chicken recipe more times than I can count, and it’s one of those dishes that just never gets old. The creamy garlic sauce, the tender chicken, and the way it pairs perfectly with pasta or a simple side salad make it a go-to for busy weeknights and cozy weekend dinners alike. My kids ask for it at least once a week, and honestly, I don’t blame them—it’s comforting without being heavy, and the flavors are just right.
What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to throw together, even on nights when I don’t feel like cooking. The ingredients are simple, and the steps are straightforward, but the result feels special enough for company. Plus, it’s a great way to get some protein and veggies into the meal without anyone complaining. The garlic and herbs add flavor without a ton of extra calories, and if you use whole wheat pasta or serve it with a big salad, it balances out nicely. It’s one of those recipes that checks all the boxes—quick, delicious, and something the whole family actually wants to eat.
Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo Copycat Recipe
A creamy, restaurant-style Chicken Alfredo inspired by Olive Garden’s famous dish. Tender grilled chicken smothered in a rich, velvety Parmesan sauce, served over fettuccine for a comforting and indulgent meal.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Extra grated Parmesan for garnish
👨🍳Directions
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1 Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
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2 Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
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3 Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F). Remove from skillet and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
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4 In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
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5 Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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6 Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water 1 tbsp at a time until desired consistency is reached.
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7 Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Stir in the cooked fettuccine and toss to coat evenly.
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8 Slice the chicken and arrange it over the pasta. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving.
🔧Equipment
- Large skillet
- Medium saucepan
- Tongs
- Whisk
- Cheese grater
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo Copycat Recipe Works
This Olive Garden chicken recipe is one of those foolproof dishes that always delivers, no matter the occasion. It’s rich, flavorful, and easy enough for a weeknight but still special enough for company, making it perfect for family dinners or get-togethers. Plus, the creamy sauce and tender chicken pair well with pasta, bread, and veggies, so everyone leaves the table happy.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo Copycat
1. What ingredients are needed to make Olive Garden’s chicken recipe?
Olive Garden’s signature chicken dish typically includes boneless, skinless chicken breasts, heavy cream, butter, garlic, Italian seasoning, grated Parmesan cheese, and sometimes cream cheese or white wine for extra richness. Some variations also use chicken broth, flour, and sun-dried tomatoes. Exact recipes may vary, but these are the core ingredients.
2. How do I make the sauce for Olive Garden’s chicken creamy and smooth?
To achieve a smooth, creamy sauce like Olive Garden’s, start by sautéing garlic in butter until fragrant. Then, deglaze the pan with chicken broth or white wine (if using) and let it reduce slightly. Slowly whisk in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer—avoid boiling to prevent curdling. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted, and finish with a splash of cream cheese for extra silkiness. Straining the sauce can also help remove any lumps.
3. Can I make Olive Garden’s chicken recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the chicken and sauce separately ahead of time. Cook the chicken, let it cool, and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Make the sauce and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce on low heat, add the chicken to warm through, and avoid overcooking to keep the meat tender. For best results, assemble the dish just before serving.
4. What sides pair best with Olive Garden’s chicken recipe?
Classic Olive Garden sides like fettuccine Alfredo, garlic mashed potatoes, or a simple side of buttered pasta complement the dish perfectly. For a lighter option, serve with roasted vegetables (such as asparagus or broccoli) or a fresh Caesar salad. Breadsticks or a warm baguette are also great for soaking up the creamy sauce.
5. How can I make this recipe healthier without losing flavor?
To lighten the recipe, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk (though the sauce will be less rich). Use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt for tanginess, and reduce the butter by sautéing in olive oil instead. Add extra garlic, herbs, or a squeeze of lemon juice to boost flavor without extra calories. For a lower-carb version, serve the chicken and sauce over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
