Name: Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 oz fettuccine pasta (or penne, linguine); 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb); 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp butter; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1½ cups heavy cream; 1½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese; Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish

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This Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo recipe brings restaurant-quality comfort food right into my kitchen. With tender seared chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luxuriously creamy Alfredo sauce, this dish is rich, satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or when I want to impress guests without too much fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy this meal is to make while still tasting like it came from a fine dining kitchen. The Alfredo sauce is velvety and full of flavor, made with simple ingredients that come together beautifully. I can customize the pasta and even use leftovers creatively. Plus, the seared chicken adds a savory depth that makes every bite satisfying.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 oz fettuccine pasta (classic choice, but penne or linguine also work)
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb total)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing chicken)
Salt and black pepper (to taste)
2 tablespoons butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Directions

I start by cooking the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Then I drain and set it aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
I season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, I heat the olive oil and sear the chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through. I remove the chicken and let it rest before slicing it thinly.
In the same skillet, I reduce the heat and add the butter. Once melted, I sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
I pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Then I gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth and creamy.
I add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, I loosen it with a bit of the reserved pasta water.
I serve the pasta topped with sliced chicken and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes around 30 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special.

Variations

Sometimes I swap the chicken for shrimp or add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a little veggie boost. For a spicy kick, I stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes into the Alfredo sauce. I’ve also tried it with whole wheat pasta or gluten-free noodles, and the sauce pairs well with both.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I do it gently over low heat on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Microwaving works too, but I stir halfway through to keep the sauce from separating.

FAQs

Can I make the Alfredo sauce ahead of time?

Yes, I sometimes make the sauce a day ahead. I store it in the fridge and reheat it gently on the stove while stirring constantly.

What kind of Parmesan works best?

I always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese—it melts better and gives the sauce a richer flavor than pre-shredded versions.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

I check with a meat thermometer—it should read 165°F (74°C). I also let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.

Can I freeze Chicken Alfredo?

I don’t recommend freezing it, as the cream-based sauce can separate when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

What can I serve with this dish?

I like serving it with a simple green salad or garlic bread to balance out the richness of the sauce. Steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables also pair well.

Conclusion

This Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo recipe brings creamy, cheesy comfort straight to the table in under 30 minutes. I love how it transforms simple ingredients into something so rich and delicious. Whether I’m cooking for family or hosting guests, this dish always gets rave reviews and leaves everyone full and happy.