If you’ve ever sat down at Olive Garden and ordered their famous Chicken Alfredo, you already know why it’s one of the most beloved pasta dishes in North America. Rich, creamy Alfredo sauce, tender grilled chicken, and perfectly cooked fettuccine come together in a comfort-food masterpiece that feels both indulgent and satisfying.
The good news? You don’t have to leave home to enjoy it. This Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo recipe recreates the restaurant-style flavor using simple ingredients and easy steps, making it perfect for home cooks in the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada.
Let’s break down how to make this iconic dish, plus tips to get that authentic Olive Garden taste.
Why Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo Is So Popular
Chicken Alfredo may seem simple, but Olive Garden’s version stands out for its luxurious texture and balanced flavor.
What Makes It Special?
Ultra-creamy Alfredo sauce (not watery or grainy)
Juicy, well-seasoned chicken
Perfect pasta-to-sauce ratio
Comforting, rich flavor without being overpowering
This copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo recipe focuses on recreating those exact qualities at home.
Ingredients for Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo
To get restaurant-style results, quality ingredients matter. This recipe sticks closely to the classic preparation.
For the Chicken
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Olive oil
Salt and black pepper
Italian seasoning
Garlic powder
For the Alfredo Sauce
Unsalted butter
Heavy cream (double cream in the UK)
Fresh garlic, minced
Grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best)
Salt and white or black pepper
For the Pasta
Fettuccine pasta
Water and salt for boiling
Optional Garnishes
Fresh parsley
Extra Parmesan cheese
Choosing the Right Pasta and Cheese
Best Pasta for Chicken Alfredo
Fettuccine is the traditional choice—and for good reason. Its wide, flat shape holds onto the creamy Alfredo sauce beautifully. While you can substitute linguine or tagliatelle, fettuccine delivers the most authentic Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo experience.
Cheese Matters
Use real Parmesan cheese, not shelf-stable grated cheese. Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoothly and gives the sauce its signature richness.
How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo (Step by Step)
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C). Remove from the pan and let it rest before slicing.
Tip: Letting the chicken rest keeps it juicy.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In a large pan over medium heat:
Melt the butter
Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds (do not brown)
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer
Reduce heat and slowly whisk in Parmesan cheese
Season with salt and pepper to taste
Stir until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the cooked fettuccine to the Alfredo sauce, tossing gently to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Top with sliced chicken and garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan.
How to Get That Authentic Olive Garden Flavor
Making Chicken Alfredo is easy—but making it taste like Olive Garden requires attention to detail.
Pro Tips
Use heavy cream, not milk
Don’t rush the cheese—add it slowly
Keep the heat low to avoid breaking the sauce
Season gradually and taste often
Serve immediately for best texture
These small adjustments make a huge difference.
Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo Variations
Once you master the classic version, you can customize it to suit your preferences.
Popular Variations
Shrimp Alfredo: Swap chicken for sautéed shrimp
Broccoli Chicken Alfredo: Add steamed broccoli for color and nutrition
Garlic Lover’s Alfredo: Add extra roasted garlic
Spicy Alfredo: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes
These variations keep the dish exciting without losing its signature appeal.
Serving Suggestions
Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo pairs beautifully with simple sides.
Best Side Dishes
Garlic bread or breadsticks
Caesar salad
Steamed green beans or asparagus
Roasted vegetables
For a full restaurant-style experience, serve with a crisp salad and warm bread on the side.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing Leftovers
Refrigerate in an airtight container
Consume within 2–3 days
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk
Avoid high heat to prevent sauce separation
Microwave only in short intervals, stirring often
Nutritional Notes
While Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo is an indulgent dish, it also provides:
High-quality protein from chicken
Calcium from Parmesan cheese
Satisfying fats that keep you full
You can lighten it slightly by reducing portion size or pairing it with vegetables.
Conclusion: Restaurant Comfort Food Made at Home
This Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo recipe proves that you can recreate restaurant-quality comfort food right in your own kitchen. Creamy, rich, and deeply satisfying, it’s a dish that works just as well for a cozy family dinner as it does for entertaining guests.
With simple ingredients, easy steps, and a few expert tips, you’ll have a homemade Chicken Alfredo that tastes remarkably close to the Olive Garden classic—no reservation required. Once you try it, this recipe is bound to become a regular favorite in your home kitchen. 🍝