Creamy Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty and comforting meal, this creamy Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo recipe is sure to satisfy. Rich, velvety Alfredo sauce coats tender fettuccine noodles, topped with crispy, golden-breaded chicken. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a family gathering, this dish brings the indulgent flavors of Olive Garden right to your kitchen. It’s simple, flavorful, and the ideal comfort food for any occasion.

Not only does this recipe rival the restaurant version, but it also provides the flexibility to make it at home using fresh, wholesome ingredients. In just a few easy steps, you can recreate that signature creamy chicken Alfredo without the hassle of dining out. Let’s dive into the details of making this mouthwatering dish!

Save

What is Creamy Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo?

Creamy Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo is a popular comfort food dish that mimics the beloved Chicken Alfredo served at Olive Garden restaurants. This version is a homemade take on the classic, featuring crispy breaded chicken served on a bed of creamy, Parmesan-packed Alfredo sauce and fettuccine pasta.

The beauty of this dish lies in its rich sauce, which is made with heavy cream, butter, and garlic for that indulgent, smooth texture. The breaded chicken adds a satisfying crunch, making each bite a delightful combination of creamy and crispy. It’s a comforting, filling meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Helpful Kitchen Tools

Before you get started, here are a few kitchen tools that will make preparing this recipe easier:

• Large pot: For boiling pasta.
• Large skillet: For cooking the chicken and making the Alfredo sauce.
• Tongs: To flip and remove the chicken from the skillet.
• Whisk: For stirring the sauce and ensuring it doesn’t clump.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To accurately measure ingredients.
• Serving plates: For plating the finished dish beautifully.

Having the right tools on hand can streamline the cooking process and ensure everything turns out just right.

Key Ingredients for Creamy Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo

Here’s what you’ll need to make this rich, creamy dish:

• Fettuccine pasta: The wide, flat noodles are ideal for soaking up the Alfredo sauce. They provide a hearty base for the chicken and sauce.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These are perfect for pan-frying and providing protein to balance the creamy pasta.
• All-purpose flour: Used to coat the chicken before breading.
• Eggs: Essential for binding the breading to the chicken, ensuring it sticks during cooking.
• Italian-style breadcrumbs: These give the chicken a deliciously crispy coating.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor to both the sauce and the breading.
• Heavy cream: The base of the Alfredo sauce, giving it that luxurious, creamy texture.
• Unsalted butter: Enhances the flavor and richness of the sauce.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a savory, aromatic depth to the sauce.
• Salt and pepper: These basic seasonings elevate the flavors of the dish.
• Fresh parsley: For garnish, adding a fresh pop of color and flavor.

These ingredients come together to create the perfect Chicken Alfredo, balancing richness with fresh, vibrant flavors.

How to Make Creamy Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo

Follow these simple steps to create your own Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo at home:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a bit of pasta water for later, and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
   Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with whisked eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, dip it into the egg mixture, and coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure it sticks.
3. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add enough oil to cover the bottom. Once hot, cook the breaded chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest. Slice into strips when ready to serve.
4. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
   In the same skillet (don’t clean it—those chicken drippings add flavor!), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce thicken for 3-4 minutes, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
   Add the drained fettuccine to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss the pasta until it’s evenly coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
6. Assemble and Serve:
   Plate the pasta, top with slices of crispy chicken, and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Recipe Tips

To ensure your Chicken Alfredo turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips:

• Pasta Texture: Be careful not to overcook the pasta. It should be al dente to avoid it becoming too soft when mixed with the sauce.
• Breading the Chicken: For extra crispiness, press down on the chicken after breading to ensure the coating sticks well while cooking.
• Enhance the Flavor: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat. If you like garlic, feel free to add extra cloves for a more pronounced flavor.
• Extra Veggies: Consider adding steamed broccoli or spinach to the pasta for added nutrients and color.

These simple tips will help elevate your Chicken Alfredo and make it even more enjoyable!

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely!), you can store the Chicken Alfredo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce as it warms. Stir occasionally until it’s heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave the dish in short bursts, stirring in between.

For best results, store the chicken and pasta separately to prevent the breading from becoming soggy. This will help keep the dish fresh longer.

Is Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo Healthy?

While Chicken Alfredo is undeniably rich and indulgent, it can still be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. Let’s break down the nutritional aspects of the dish:

• Chicken: A great source of lean protein, chicken helps keep you feeling full longer while supporting muscle growth and repair.
• Fettuccine: Pasta is a comforting carb, but it’s important to be mindful of portion sizes if you’re managing your calorie intake. You can use whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
• Heavy Cream and Butter: These ingredients provide the creamy texture that makes Alfredo sauce so irresistible. However, they are also high in fat and calories, so consider using lighter alternatives if you’re looking to cut back.
• Vegetable Additions: You can boost the nutritional value by adding vegetables such as broccoli or spinach. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also add fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the dish.

This meal can be a once-in-a-while treat or even adapted to suit various dietary preferences. For instance, swapping heavy cream for a lighter version, or using chicken thighs for more flavor, can offer a healthier twist on the classic.

How to Make the Dish Your Own

While this Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo recipe is delicious on its own, there’s always room for customization. Here are some ideas to make the dish even more special or suited to your tastes:

1. Add Vegetables

You can include various vegetables for extra flavor, color, and nutrition. Steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or roasted mushrooms are all excellent choices to complement the creamy pasta. These additions not only elevate the flavor but also make the dish feel lighter.

2. Experiment with Different Proteins

Although chicken is the star of the show, you can easily swap it out for other proteins. Shrimp works wonderfully in this dish, providing a delicate, sweet contrast to the rich sauce. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, sautéed mushrooms can replace the chicken, offering a savory, meaty texture.

3. Add a Dash of Spice

If you prefer your food with a bit of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Alfredo sauce. This adds a zesty kick that enhances the richness of the dish without overpowering the flavors.

4. Try Homemade Pasta

For the ultimate homemade experience, try making your own fettuccine pasta! Fresh pasta has a tender, delicate texture that perfectly complements the creamy Alfredo sauce. While making pasta from scratch is time-consuming, it’s a rewarding endeavor for food enthusiasts.

5. Use a Different Type of Cheese

While Parmesan is the classic choice for Alfredo sauce, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile. A mix of cheeses can add complexity and richness to the sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Chicken Alfredo turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:

1. Overcooking the Pasta: Pasta should be cooked al dente. Overcooking it will result in mushy noodles that won’t hold up well in the sauce.
2. Not Letting the Chicken Rest: After cooking the chicken, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and prevents the chicken from being dry.
3. Cooking the Sauce on High Heat: Don’t rush the sauce by turning up the heat. Alfredo sauce should be cooked over medium heat to allow the cream to thicken without burning.
4. Not Seasoning Enough: Taste the sauce and pasta before serving. Adding enough salt and pepper is crucial for balancing the rich flavors of the Alfredo sauce.

By being mindful of these tips, you’ll avoid common pitfalls and ensure a satisfying meal every time.

Making a creamy, homemade Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo is a rewarding experience that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table. With its rich, velvety sauce, crispy chicken, and tender fettuccine, this dish is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy night in or a family gathering. The versatility of the recipe means you can easily customize it to fit your preferences, adding vegetables, switching proteins, or experimenting with spices.

Don’t hesitate to make this delicious comfort food your own! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, the result is guaranteed to be a hit with everyone at the table.