How To Make Olive Garden’s Famous Chicken Alfredo Recipe At Home

Are you craving the creamy, indulgent flavors of Olive Garden’s iconic Chicken Alfredo? Look no further! With this comprehensive guide, you can master the art of preparing this beloved dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Asiago cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and pepper.
• Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture.
• Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
• Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

2. Make the Sauce:

• In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, or until the mixture turns golden.
• Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
• Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
• Stir in the Parmesan and Asiago cheeses, salt, and pepper.

3. Combine the Chicken and Sauce:

• Add the cooked chicken to the sauce and stir to combine.

4. Serve and Garnish:

• Serve the Chicken Alfredo over your favorite pasta.
• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Tips for a Perfect Chicken Alfredo:

• Use high-quality ingredients, especially the Parmesan and Asiago cheeses.
• Don’t overcook the chicken, or it will become tough.
• If the sauce is too thick, add more milk gradually.
• If the sauce is too thin, add more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.
• Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Variations on the Classic:

• Seafood Alfredo: Add shrimp, scallops, or lobster to the sauce.
• Vegetable Alfredo: Sauté your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, mushrooms, or zucchini, and add them to the sauce.
• Spicy Alfredo: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce for a kick.

Choosing the Right Pasta:

The type of pasta you choose can make a big difference in the overall dish. Some popular options include:

• Fettuccine
• Penne
• Linguine
• Spaghetti

Other Serving Suggestions:

• Garlic bread: Serve the Chicken Alfredo with warm, toasted garlic bread for a satisfying meal.
• Salad: A fresh side salad can help balance the richness of the Chicken Alfredo.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or zucchini, add a healthy and colorful touch.

FAQ:

Q: Can I make Chicken Alfredo ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken up to 3 days in advance. Simply reheat the sauce and chicken before serving.

Q: What if I don’t have Parmesan or Asiago cheese?
A: You can use a combination of other hard cheeses, such as Romano, Grana Padano, or Pecorino Romano.

Q: Can I use a different type of milk?
A: Yes, you can use 2% or skim milk instead of whole milk. However, the sauce may be less creamy.

Q: What can I do if my sauce is too salty?
A: Add a little bit of sugar or honey to balance out the flavor.

Q: What is the best way to reheat Chicken Alfredo?
A: Reheat the sauce and chicken in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave the dish in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.