Oh my goodness, do I have a treat for you today! If you’ve ever found yourself dreaming of that creamy, dreamy Chicken Alfredo from Olive Garden, well, you’re in luck. I’ve perfected this Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo recipe that will have you feeling like you’ve been transported right to your favorite Italian restaurant, all from the comfort of your own kitchen.
I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chilly evening, and I was craving comfort food. I had some leftover chicken and a box of fettuccine just begging to be cooked. After a little trial and error—and a bit of a mess in my kitchen—I finally got it just right! Now, every time I whip it up, it brings back those cozy memories of laughter, good food, and a glass of Italian wine. And let me tell you, there’s something incredibly satisfying about serving a homemade version of a restaurant classic to friends and family.
So, if you’re ready to dig into a plate of luscious, cheesy goodness, let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking!
What’s in Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo?
Fettuccine Pasta: The star of this show, fettuccine is wide, flat noodles that soak up the Alfredo sauce perfectly. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try making homemade pasta!
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: For a protein-packed element, these are perfect! They are easy to cook and provide a nice contrast to the creamy pasta.
All-Purpose Flour: This is part of the breading process that gives the chicken that crunchy texture we all love when it’s fried to golden perfection.
Large Eggs: Essential for binding the breadcrumbs to the chicken, these help create that crispy outer layer.
Italian-Style Bread Crumbs: The flavor boosts with Italian herbs make your chicken extra delicious. If you can, seek out the Italian-style crumbs for the best flavor.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: A must-have for that rich cheesy flavor in both the breading and the sauce. I always keep a bit extra for serving on top!
Heavy Cream: This is what gives that luxurious texture to the Alfredo sauce. It’s rich and indulgent—trust me, you won’t want to skip this!
Unsalted Butter: Adds a depth of flavor to the sauce and helps create that creamy consistency we all crave.
Garlic: A couple of cloves of this aromatic addition will add an explosion of flavor. Don’t be shy here; garlic lovers unite!
Salt and Pepper: Just the basics, but vital for enhancing all the wonderful flavors in this dish.
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of this vibrant herb adds a pop of color and freshness to your plated dish.
Is Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about whether this indulgent dish can fit into a healthy lifestyle. Let’s be real; it’s Chicken Alfredo, and it’s rich, but there are ways to enjoy it mindfully!
Chicken: A great source of lean protein, it helps keep you fuller for longer.
Fettuccine: While pasta is hearty and comforting, it’s important to watch portion sizes if you’re monitoring your carbs. There are whole grain options if you want to amp up the nutritional profile.
Heavy Cream and Butter: Yes, these add deliciousness but beware—they’re also where those calorie counts can soar. You might opt for a lighter cream or even add more veggies to balance it out.
So, I would say treat yourself to this dish once in a while! It’s all about balance, right?
Ingredients
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup bread crumbs (preferably Italian-style)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
This recipe serves about 4 people, perfect for a cozy dinner night or a small gathering.
How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo?
1. **Prepare the Pasta**: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add your fettuccine. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. **Prepare the Chicken**:
– Season both sides of the chicken breasts with a bit of salt and pepper.
– Create your breading station: One bowl with flour, a second bowl with whisked eggs, and a third bowl with the bread crumbs mixed with 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese.
– Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip in eggs, and then coat with the bread crumb mixture, pressing down gently to make sure it sticks.
3. **Cook the Chicken**: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and pour in enough oil to cover the bottom. Cook the breaded chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Let them rest for a bit before slicing into that crispy goodness.
4. **Make the Alfredo Sauce**: In the same skillet (don’t clean it, those chicken drippings are flavor gold!), add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Slowly pour in the cream and allow it to simmer for about 3-4 minutes; it should thicken up nicely. Stir in the remaining Parmesan cheese, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. **Combine and Serve**: Gently toss your cooked fettuccine in the Alfredo sauce until it’s nicely coated. Plate a generous serving of pasta and top it off with sliced chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley and a touch more Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy (I always do!).
6. **Enjoy**: Serve it hot, and prepare for your taste buds to go on a joyride!
Perfecting Your Plate of Alfredo
Here are a few little nuggets of wisdom to elevate this dish even more:
– **Add Veggies**: Consider tossing in some steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach for color and added nutrition. Plus, it looks gorgeous on the plate!
– **Protein Swap**: If you want to try a different protein, shrimp or even sautéed mushrooms can make delicious alternatives.
– **Heat It Up**: If you’re feeling spicy, toss in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some kick!
Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and having fun! I’d love to hear how your own Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo turns out. Give it a whirl, and who knows? You might just find it becomes a cherished tradition in your home, just like it did in mine! Enjoy and happy cooking!
