Recreating Olive Garden’s Grilled Chicken Alfredo at Home
There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate of creamy fettuccine Alfredo, especially when it’s topped with perfectly grilled chicken. This dish has been a staple in my family for years, often serving as the centerpiece for our Sunday dinners. I remember the first time I took my family to Olive Garden; we were all mesmerized by the rich flavors and the warm, inviting atmosphere. Now, I can bring that same experience home, and I can’t wait to share this recipe with you!
What Makes It Special
This homemade version of Olive Garden’s Grilled Chicken Alfredo stands out for several reasons:
- Rich and Creamy Sauce: The combination of heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese creates a velvety sauce that clings to every strand of pasta.
- Perfectly Grilled Chicken: Marinating the chicken adds depth of flavor, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh garlic and herbs elevates the dish, making it taste like it was made in a restaurant kitchen.
- Customizable: You can easily add vegetables or swap out the protein to suit your taste.
Gather Your Ingredients
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Let’s Get Cooking
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Start by marinating the chicken breasts in olive oil, salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs for at least 30 minutes.
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Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
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Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
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Grill the marinated chicken on a preheated grill or grill pan for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Let it rest before slicing.
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Add the cooked fettuccine to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve the pasta topped with sliced grilled chicken and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
My Pro Tips
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For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
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Feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp or sautéed vegetables for a different twist.
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Make sure to reserve some pasta water; it can help adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
What to Serve With It
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Steamed broccoli
- A glass of white wine
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: While the pasta is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and grill the chicken in advance. Just reheat before serving.
Q: What can I use instead of heavy cream?
A: You can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream, but the sauce may not be as rich.
The Heart of the Dish
This Grilled Chicken Alfredo is more than just a meal; it’s a way to bring family and friends together. The laughter around the table, the clinking of forks, and the satisfied smiles are what make cooking worthwhile. I hope this recipe brings you as much joy as it has brought to my family!
Your Turn
Now it’s your turn to try this delicious recipe! I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Feel free to tweak it to your liking and share your experiences in the comments below!
Recreated Olive Garden’s Grilled Chicken Alfredo at Home (Rich, Creamy, and Better Than Takeout)
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Steamed broccoli
- A glass of white wine
Instructions
- Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine, and bring to a simmer.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the cooked fettuccine with the Alfredo sauce.
- Slice the grilled chicken and serve it on top of the pasta. Garnish with chopped parsley.
- Serve with garlic bread, Caesar salad, and steamed broccoli on the side.
- Enjoy with a glass of white wine.
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