There's nothing quite like the creamy, savory goodness of Olive Garden’s Chicken Alfredo. With tender grilled chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce, this dish is comfort food at its finest. Whether you're recreating a cozy restaurant vibe at home or treating your family to something special, this copycat recipe is sure to impress.

I first discovered the magic of this dish during a birthday dinner at Olive Garden years ago. That silky Alfredo sauce and juicy chicken stole the show, and I knew I had to figure out how to make it at home. Now, this recipe has become a staple in our dinner rotation – quick, easy, and oh-so-satisfying.

Why You'll Love This Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo

Prepare to be delighted by this restaurant-quality dish, made right in your own kitchen! This Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo is everything you love about dining out, minus the wait time and expense.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. You’ll have a full, creamy Alfredo dinner on the table in just under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.

Secondly, it’s wonderfully versatile. Customize the pasta type, swap proteins, or even add your favorite vegetables to make it your own.

And let’s not forget about the flavor! The rich and creamy Parmesan sauce paired with tender chicken and al dente pasta is a match made in heaven. Each bite feels indulgent, yet the recipe uses simple, accessible ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Lastly, this dish is a hit with everyone at the table – even the pickiest eaters. Serve it with a side salad and breadsticks for that authentic Olive Garden experience.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to nailing this copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo lies in using high-quality, fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:

Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. They cook up tender and juicy, providing the ideal protein base for the creamy Alfredo sauce.
Pasta: While fettuccine is the classic choice, you can also use penne, spaghetti, or any pasta shape you prefer. Look for high-quality, semolina pasta for the best results.
Butter and garlic: These two ingredients form the aromatic base of the Alfredo sauce. Fresh garlic adds depth, while butter lends richness.
Heavy cream: This is the key to that velvety texture you love. For a slightly lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be quite as luxurious.
Parmesan cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture. Pre-shredded cheeses can contain anti-caking agents that affect melting.
Olive oil: A little olive oil helps sear the chicken to golden perfection and adds a subtle fruity flavor.
Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning: Simple seasonings bring everything together and add just the right amount of herby goodness.

You’ll also need a large skillet, a pot for boiling pasta, and a whisk for the sauce – essential tools for creating this dish to perfection.

How To Make This Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo

Creating this decadent dish at home is easier than you might think. Follow these step-by-step instructions to recreate Olive Garden’s famous Chicken Alfredo:

Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.
Prepare the chicken
Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
Make the Alfredo sauce
In the same skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 3 minced cloves of garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Slowly pour in 2 cups of heavy cream, whisking constantly, and bring to a gentle simmer.
Incorporate the cheese
Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a little at a time, until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce seems too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Combine and serve
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Top with the sliced chicken and garnish with additional Parmesan and chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Storage Options

If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), storing and reheating this dish is a breeze.

Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken slightly, but it will loosen up when reheated.
Freezer: While Alfredo sauce can sometimes separate when frozen, you can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to help revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the sauce to break.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo recipe is how customizable it is. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Swap the protein: Use shrimp, grilled salmon, or even sautéed mushrooms as a meat-free option.
Add vegetables: Stir in steamed broccoli, spinach, or roasted red peppers for a burst of color and nutrients.
Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for a little heat.
Lighten it up: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and opt for whole-grain pasta for a lighter version.
Cheese variations: Mix in a bit of Romano or Asiago cheese for a different flavor profile.

Experiment freely and enjoy the process – you might just discover a new family favorite!

Recreating Olive Garden’s Chicken Alfredo at home is a surefire way to bring restaurant-quality comfort to your dinner table. From its creamy sauce to perfectly cooked chicken, this dish is bound to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Happy cooking!