There’s nothing quite like recreating the magic of a restaurant favorite in your own kitchen. This Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo is rich, creamy, and packed with the same comforting flavors that make it a classic.

The first time I made this at home, I was blown away by how easy it was to replicate that iconic Alfredo sauce. With tender, juicy chicken and perfectly cooked fettuccine, this recipe will transport you straight to your favorite Olive Garden booth—without the wait.

Why You’ll Love This Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo

This copycat Chicken Alfredo recipe has all the indulgent goodness you crave with none of the hassle. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

Restaurant-Quality Flavor: Creamy, buttery, and cheesy, this Alfredo sauce is a spot-on replica of Olive Garden’s signature dish.
Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is approachable for cooks of all levels.
Family Favorite: It’s a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Customizable: You can tweak the recipe to suit your preferences—add veggies, swap the protein, or adjust the sauce to your liking.

Once you see how easy and delicious this is, you’ll wonder why you ever ordered takeout!

Ingredients Notes

This recipe relies on high-quality, simple ingredients to recreate the creamy magic of Olive Garden’s Alfredo sauce.

Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Searing them in a skillet ensures they’re juicy on the inside and golden on the outside.
Fettuccine: The classic pasta choice for Alfredo. Its flat, wide shape perfectly holds the creamy sauce. Feel free to substitute with linguine or spaghetti.
Butter: The base of the sauce, adding richness and depth. Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish.
Heavy Cream: For that luxurious, creamy texture. Half-and-half can work in a pinch, but heavy cream provides the best results.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is key. Pre-shredded cheese won’t melt as smoothly and can result in a grainy texture.
Garlic: A few cloves of minced garlic infuse the sauce with a savory aroma.
Olive Oil: Used to cook the chicken and give it a light, crispy exterior.

Special equipment: A large skillet or saucepan is essential for making the sauce, and a mixing bowl is handy for tossing everything together.

How To Make Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo

Making this copycat Chicken Alfredo is easier than you might think! Follow these steps for a dish that tastes straight out of the Olive Garden kitchen.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your fettuccine according to the package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside while you prepare the chicken and sauce.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.

Step 4: Add the Parmesan

Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss to coat it in the Alfredo sauce. Stir in the sliced chicken, ensuring every bite is coated in creamy goodness.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top the pasta with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese for a finishing touch. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Olive Garden experience!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), here’s how to store and reheat your Chicken Alfredo:

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as the sauce can separate.
Freezing: While the sauce may not freeze perfectly, you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is delicious as-is, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to customize it:

Add Veggies: Broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms pair beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Protein Swaps: Substitute chicken with shrimp, salmon, or even grilled tofu for a different twist.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Cheese Alternatives: Use Romano cheese or a blend of Parmesan and Asiago for a sharper flavor.
Pasta Options: Try penne, rigatoni, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.

This Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo recipe is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, date night, or simply indulging yourself, it’s a dish that delivers every time. Try it tonight and enjoy the taste of Olive Garden from the comfort of your own home!