Love Olive Garden’s iconic Fettuccine Chicken Alfredo? Now you can recreate this creamy, comforting dish right in your own kitchen. Packed with tender chicken, perfectly cooked fettuccine, and a rich Alfredo sauce, this recipe is perfect for any Italian food lover.
Whether you want to impress guests or enjoy a tasty meal at home, this Olive Garden-inspired recipe is sure to be a hit.
Read on for step-by-step instructions to make this famous dish, along with tips, serving suggestions, and storage advice to help you perfect it.
Why do people love this Olive Garden Fettuccine Chicken Alfredo so much?
This Fettuccine Chicken Alfredo is loved for its creamy, velvety texture and indulgent flavor that brings restaurant-quality dining to your home. The dish combines simple, high-quality ingredients to create a comforting yet elegant meal.
The Alfredo sauce, made with heavy cream, butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, delivers a rich and savory taste that perfectly coats the fettuccine pasta. The addition of juicy, seasoned chicken adds protein and a hearty element to each bite.
It’s great for family meals, date nights, or any time you want something tasty and simple to make. Plus, you can change it up by adding broccoli, mushrooms, or shrimp to make it your own.
Ingredients Needed for This Chicken Alfredo
Here’s what you’ll need to recreate Olive Garden’s mouthwatering dish:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Fettuccine:
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
- Water for boiling
- A pinch of salt for the pasta water
Optional toppings:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan for garnish
Equipment Needed
Here’s the gear that will help you cook like a pro:
- Large skillet or frying pan (for chicken and sauce)
- Saucepan (for pasta)
- Tongs (to flip chicken and serve)
- Grater (for Parmesan)
- Whisk (for Alfredo sauce)
- Knife and cutting board (to prep)
Pro tip: Prepping everything before cooking will help your kitchen run smoothly!
Step-by-Step Recipe for Olive Garden Fettuccine Chicken Alfredo
Follow these simple steps for a foolproof Fettuccine Chicken Alfredo:
Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine Pasta
Start by boiling a big pot of salted water. Toss in the fettuccine and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. Once it’s done, drain the pasta but save about half a cup of the pasta water—you might need it later to adjust the sauce. Set the pasta aside while we move on to the next step.
Step 2: Prep the Chicken
Grab those chicken breasts and season them generously with salt, pepper, and whatever herbs or spices you like—garlic powder or Italian seasoning work great here. Heat a big pan with a little olive oil over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, put the chicken in and cook it for 4-5 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and fully cooked. Take the chicken out, let it rest for a few minutes, then cut it into thin slices. Easy, right?
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
Using the same pan (fewer dishes to clean!), turn the heat to medium and melt a tablespoon of butter. Slowly stir in a cup of heavy cream and let it heat up gently. Then, add grated Parmesan cheese little by little, stirring constantly until you have a smooth, creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, just mix in a little pasta water until it’s the way you like it.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Now, toss the cooked fettuccine back into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Give it a good mix so every strand is coated in that creamy goodness. Take a quick taste and adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt or pepper, if needed.
Step 5: Plate and Serve
Let’s finish it up! Put the pasta on plates and add the chicken slices on top. Sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese (because it’s so good!) and add a little parsley or basil for a nice touch. Serve it hot and enjoy your delicious Fettuccine Chicken Alfredo at home!
Olive Garden Fettuccine Chicken Alfredo Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet or frying pan (for chicken and sauce)
- Saucepan (for pasta)
- Tongs (to flip chicken and serve)
- Grater (for Parmesan)
- Whisk (for Alfredo sauce)
- Knife and cutting board (to prep)
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons ½ stick unsalted butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Fettuccine:
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
- Water for boiling
- A pinch of salt for the pasta water
Optional toppings:
- Fresh parsley chopped
- Extra Parmesan for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine Pasta
- Start by boiling a big pot of salted water. Toss in the fettuccine and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. Once it’s done, drain the pasta but save about half a cup of the pasta water—you might need it later to adjust the sauce. Set the pasta aside while we move on to the next step.
Step 2: Prep the Chicken
- Grab those chicken breasts and season them generously with salt, pepper, and whatever herbs or spices you like—garlic powder or Italian seasoning work great here. Heat a big pan with a little olive oil over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, put the chicken in and cook it for 4-5 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and fully cooked. Take the chicken out, let it rest for a few minutes, then cut it into thin slices. Easy, right?
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
- Using the same pan (fewer dishes to clean!), turn the heat to medium and melt a tablespoon of butter. Slowly stir in a cup of heavy cream and let it heat up gently. Then, add grated Parmesan cheese little by little, stirring constantly until you have a smooth, creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, just mix in a little pasta water until it’s the way you like it.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Now, toss the cooked fettuccine back into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Give it a good mix so every strand is coated in that creamy goodness. Take a quick taste and adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt or pepper, if needed.
Step 5: Plate and Serve
- Let’s finish it up! Put the pasta on plates and add the chicken slices on top. Sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese (because it’s so good!) and add a little parsley or basil for a nice touch. Serve it hot and enjoy your delicious Fettuccine Chicken Alfredo at home!
Notes
Nutritional Information
Here’s an estimate for one serving (makes 4 servings):
- Calories: 850
- Protein: 45g
- Carbs: 60g
- Fat: 47g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
Keep in mind, that toppings and portion sizes may alter these values.
Serving Suggestions
Take your Olive Garden Fettuccine Chicken Alfredo to the next level with these pairings:
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm, crusty garlic bread on the side to complement the creamy Alfredo sauce. Its buttery, garlicky flavor is a perfect match.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with crunchy croutons, romaine lettuce, and Parmesan cheese adds a fresh and tangy balance to your meal.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini pair well with the rich Alfredo, adding color and nutrition to your plate.
- Sparkling Drinks: Pair your meal with sparkling water, lemonade, or even a light white wine to elevate your dining experience.
- Tiramisu for Dessert: Finish your meal on a sweet note with a creamy classic like tiramisu for a true Italian-inspired feast.
How to Store and Reheat Leftover Chicken Alfredo
If you have leftovers (unlikely with a dish this good), follow these tips to store and reheat your Chicken Alfredo:
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze for up to 1 month. If possible, store the pasta and sauce separately for best results.
Reheating Instructions:
- On the Stovetop: Heat the pasta and sauce over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back its creamy texture.
- In the Microwave: Reheat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between to avoid drying out.
Properly reheated, your Chicken Alfredo can taste just as delicious as the day you made it.
Pro Tips for Perfect Olive Garden Fettuccine Chicken Alfredo
- Make sure your Parmesan cheese is finely grated before adding it to the sauce—this helps it melt smoothly and gives you that creamy texture.
- If your sauce feels a little too thick, just stir in some pasta water or milk until it’s perfect.
- Want to add extra flavor? Toss in some chopped broccoli, mushrooms, shrimp, or your favorite protein.
- Looking for a healthier twist? Swap regular pasta for whole wheat fettuccine!
- Got leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken? Use that to save some time.
- Going vegetarian? Skip the chicken and add sautéed veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots instead.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is a classic choice, you can use any pasta you have on hand. Penne, spaghetti, or even gluten-free options work well with this recipe.
2. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, simply omit the chicken and load up on your favorite vegetables. Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or asparagus make great additions!
3. Can I use a store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Sure! You can use Alfredo sauce from the store. Just pick a good one and add extra flavor with garlic, parmesan, or a little nutmeg.
4. How can I make this dish healthier?
Use whole-grain pasta, reduce the amount of butter, and opt for light cream. However, keep in mind that the dish’s richness is what makes it special.
5. What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
The best way to reheat this dish is on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and stir gently until warmed through. Avoid overheating to maintain its creamy consistency.
6. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli can enhance the flavor and nutritional content of the dish. Simply sauté or steam the vegetables and toss them in with the pasta and sauce.
