Chicken Alfredo from Olive Garden features tender grilled chicken breast atop fettuccine pasta smothered in a creamy Parmesan cheese sauce, garnished with fresh parsley for a rich and satisfying Italian classic.
Equipments
- Large pot
- Large skillet or saute pan
- Grill pan or outdoor grill
- Tongs
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Colander
- Ladle or large spoon
- Serving plates
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz (340g) fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Olive oil
- Fresh parsley
When selecting chicken breasts, choose boneless, skinless pieces for even cooking and easier grilling. Use fresh garlic cloves to maximize flavor in the creamy Parmesan sauce, and opt for real grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties to achieve a smoother texture. Measuring ingredients precisely, especially heavy cream and butter, ensures the sauce reaches the perfect richness without becoming too thick or runny. Be sure to cook the fettuccine pasta al dente to maintain the right bite and texture when combined with the sauce. Your Chicken Alfredo from Olive Garden copycat menu will taste authentic and satisfying by prioritizing these ingredient details.
Instructions
- Fill the large pot with water; bring to a boil.
- Season water with salt; add the fettuccine pasta.
- Cook pasta until al dente; drain in colander and set aside.
- Preheat grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat.
- Brush chicken breasts with olive oil; season with salt and black pepper.
- Grill chicken until fully cooked and juices run clear; remove from grill.
- Rest grilled chicken; slice into strips.
- Mince garlic cloves with chef’s knife on cutting board.
- In large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic to butter; sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream; heat gently, whisking to combine.
- Whisk in grated Parmesan cheese; keep whisking until sauce is smooth and thickened.
- Season Alfredo sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add cooked fettuccine to skillet; toss until pasta is fully coated in sauce.
- Plate fettuccine Alfredo onto serving plates using ladle or large spoon.
- Top each plate with sliced grilled chicken.
- Chop fresh parsley; sprinkle over plated chicken Alfredo.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Chicken Alfredo from Olive Garden copycat menu relies on tender grilled chicken breast and a rich Parmesan cream sauce that coats fettuccine pasta perfectly. You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of flour to achieve a lighter sauce consistency. If fresh Parmesan is unavailable, pre-grated cheese can be used, but avoid blends that contain anti-caking agents for better melting. Grilling chicken on a stovetop grill pan works well, but baking or pan-searing are suitable alternatives depending on your kitchen setup. Using fresh garlic instead of garlic powder enhances flavor and keeps the sauce authentic and vibrant.
Tips
Ensure your pasta water is generously salted to enhance the fettuccine's flavor during boiling. Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it tender and juicy; use a meat thermometer if available, aiming for an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC). Gradually add Parmesan cheese to the sauce while whisking to prevent clumping and achieve a smooth, creamy texture. Rest your grilled chicken before slicing to allow juices to redistribute, enhancing moisture and taste.
Nutritions
Chicken Alfredo from Olive Garden provides a substantial amount of protein thanks to the 1 lb of boneless skinless chicken breasts, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. The fettuccine pasta contributes complex carbohydrates, offering sustained energy, while the creamy Parmesan sauce made from 2 cups of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of butter adds a rich source of fats, including saturated fats. With 1 cup of grated Parmesan, the dish offers calcium for bone health, but the high fat and calorie content means you should enjoy it in moderation as part of your balanced diet.
Storage
Store leftover Chicken Alfredo in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. For optimal taste and texture, consume within 3 to 4 days and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Your grilled chicken and creamy Parmesan sauce will keep their flavor best when properly covered and chilled promptly after serving.
Variation or Alternatives
To vary the Chicken Alfredo, you can substitute grilled chicken with sauteed shrimp or seared scallops for a seafood twist. Consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream to reduce richness while maintaining creaminess in your Parmesan sauce. You might also swap fettuccine for gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles to accommodate dietary preferences without sacrificing texture. Roasting minced garlic before adding it to the butter enhances a deeper, sweeter flavor profile that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
Allergies
Chicken Alfredo from Olive Garden contains common allergens such as dairy from heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese, which may trigger reactions in those with lactose intolerance or a milk allergy. The dish also includes wheat-based fettuccine pasta, posing a risk for individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. You should always check ingredient labels and consult with the restaurant if you have food allergies to avoid exposure.
Why this recipe?
Chicken Alfredo at Olive Garden is loved for its creamy Parmesan sauce perfectly coating tender grilled chicken and fettuccine pasta. The rich, velvety texture combined with freshly grated cheese and garlic creates a comforting, indulgent flavor profile that keeps diners coming back. Making a copycat version allows you to recreate this restaurant-quality dish at home, customizing ingredients to suit your taste while saving money. Your kitchen can become a gourmet Italian bistro with a homemade Chicken Alfredo that rivals Olive Garden's signature menu item.