This recipe captures the rich, creamy flavors of Olive Garden’s beloved pasta dishes without the need for a takeout order. It’s simple to make, full of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious sauce that clings to every bite. Plus, it can be customized with your favorite vegetables, herbs, or cheese to suit your taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Olive oil
Garlic cloves, minced
Heavy cream
Chicken broth
Grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper
Pasta of choice (fettuccine, penne, or rotini recommended)
Optional: fresh parsley, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for garnish
Directions
Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Add chicken broth and heavy cream to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet. Toss with cooked pasta to coat evenly in the sauce.
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is 10 minutes, cooking time is 20–25 minutes, for a total of about 35 minutes.
Variations
Vegetable Boost: Add broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the skillet with the sauce.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a mild heat.
Cheesy Delight: Stir in mozzarella or fontina cheese for an extra cheesy pasta.
Lighter Version: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh basil, thyme, or oregano for enhanced flavor.
Pasta Swap: Use gluten-free or whole wheat pasta to suit dietary needs.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for long periods as the sauce may separate.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work beautifully and stay moist during cooking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead, but combine with pasta just before serving for best texture.
What pasta works best?
Fettuccine, penne, or rotini are recommended as they hold the sauce well.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream and use dairy-free Parmesan.
Can I freeze Olive Garden Chicken Pasta?
It’s not ideal for freezing, as the cream-based sauce can separate. Best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Simmer gently and stir in extra Parmesan. You can also add a small slurry of cornstarch and water if needed.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers are great additions. Add them to the sauce to cook slightly before combining with pasta.
Is this recipe spicy?
The base recipe is mild, but you can add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?
Yes, but freshly grated Parmesan will provide the creamiest, most flavorful sauce.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute your pasta with a gluten-free variety.
Conclusion
Olive Garden Chicken Pasta brings restaurant-quality flavors into your own kitchen with minimal effort. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken, it’s a crowd-pleasing meal perfect for weeknights or special dinners. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this dish delivers comfort and flavor every time.
Olive Garden Chicken Pasta is a creamy, savory dish inspired by the popular restaurant favorite. Featuring tender chicken, pasta, and a rich Parmesan-garlic cream sauce, it’s an easy and satisfying meal to make at home.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:25 minutes
Total Time:35 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main Course
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Italian-American
Diet:Halal
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
8 oz pasta of choice (fettuccine, penne, or rotini)
Optional: chopped fresh parsley, baby spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for garnish
Instructions
Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Season chicken with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
Stir in Parmesan cheese and mix until sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet. Add cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated in the sauce.
Serve immediately, garnished with parsley, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes if desired.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan for best results.To lighten the dish, substitute with half-and-half or milk.Add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers to the sauce for a heartier meal.Reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk to maintain creamy texture.Make it gluten-free with gluten-free pasta.
