Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo Sauce Recipe
Olive Garden’s Chicken Alfredo Sauce has captured the hearts and taste buds of countless people and has become an iconic symbol of indulgence and comfort. What makes this creamy sauce different is its rich and velvety texture paired with the perfect balance of flavors that leaves you craving for more.
Equipment
- Medium-sized saucepan
- Whisk or spatula
- Cheese grater
- Knife and cutting board
- Large skillet
Ingredients
- Butter: 1/2 cup unsalted recommended
- Heavy Cream: 2 cups
- Garlic: 2 cloves minced
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 1/2 cups freshly grated (authentic flavor here makes a difference)
- Salt: To taste
- Black Pepper: To taste
- Fettuccine Pasta: 1 pound optional, for traditional serving
- Cooked Chicken: Sliced or shredded as preferred (optional, for classic Chicken Alfredo).
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Start by preparing the ingredients for the sauce. Grate the Parmesan cheese and set it aside. You can also slice the chicken into thin strips if it’s not already prepped.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Warm a large frying pan over medium heat and drizzle in a little olive oil. Cook the chicken strips thoroughly until they are fully cooked in the center and develop a golden-brown exterior. Take the chicken out of the pan and place it aside for later use.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for a minute until fragrant. Then gradually whisk in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low then add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir continuously until it is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.
Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Sauce
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly with the Alfredo sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Once the sauce and chicken are fully combined and heated through, your Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo sauce is ready to be served. Pour it over cooked pasta or any other dish of your choice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Notes
When making this Alfredo sauce, try using different cheeses to change the flavor. Cheeses like Romano, Asiago, Fontina, or Gruyère work well. You can make the sauce ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days, which is great for planning meals. For a vegetarian version, leave out the chicken and use vegetable or mushroom stock instead.