Olive Garden Chicken Tortellini Alfredo – Easy & Delicious!

If you love indulging in a rich, creamy, and comforting pasta dish, this Olive Garden Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is the perfect recipe for you.

Inspired by the beloved restaurant favorite, this dish features tender, juicy chicken served over cheesy tortellini, all smothered in a velvety homemade Alfredo sauce.

Making this dish at home allows you to enjoy the same restaurant-quality flavors while using fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

With just a few simple steps, you can recreate this Olive Garden classic right in your own kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Restaurant-Quality at Home

Skip the wait and the bill! This homemade version tastes just like the one at Olive Garden—if not better.

2. Simple & Easy to Make

With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly yet impressive enough for a special meal.

3. Rich, Creamy, and Irresistible

The Alfredo sauce is smooth, cheesy, and decadent, coating every bite of tortellini and chicken for the ultimate comfort food experience.

4. Customizable to Your Taste

Want a little spice? Add Cajun seasoning. Prefer a healthier twist? Toss in some spinach or mushrooms.

This recipe is easy to adjust based on your preferences.

5. Family-Friendly & Crowd-Pleasing

Kids and adults alike will love this creamy, cheesy pasta dish. It’s guaranteed to be a hit at the dinner table!

Ready to bring this Olive Garden favorite to your home kitchen? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Health Benefits of Chicken Tortellini Alfredo

While this dish is indulgent, it also provides several nutritional benefits:

1. High in Protein – The chicken provides a good source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
2. Rich in Calcium – Parmesan cheese and cream contribute to strong bones and teeth.
3. Good Source of Energy – The combination of carbohydrates from the tortellini and healthy fats from the Alfredo sauce keeps you energized.
4. Healthy Fats for Satiety – The fats from olive oil and dairy promote long-lasting fullness, reducing the likelihood of overeating.
5. Customizable for Nutritional Balance – Adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli increases fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making the dish more nutritious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To recreate the Olive Garden Chicken Tortellini Alfredo, you’ll need a handful of simple, fresh ingredients.

Each component plays a key role in making this dish creamy, flavorful, and absolutely delicious.

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Seasoned and pan-seared for a juicy and flavorful bite.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps achieve a golden, crispy exterior.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Adds a perfect blend of herbs for a classic Italian touch.
• ½ teaspoon salt & ½ teaspoon black pepper – Essential for seasoning.

For the Tortellini

• 10-12 oz cheese-filled tortellini – Fresh or frozen, these pasta pockets add a rich, cheesy bite.

For the Homemade Alfredo Sauce

• 3 tablespoons butter – Creates a smooth, rich base for the sauce.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the sauce with a deep, savory flavor.
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream – The key to a thick, luxurious Alfredo sauce.
• ½ cup cream cheese – Adds extra creaminess and helps thicken the sauce.
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – The star ingredient for that signature cheesy Alfredo taste.
• ½ teaspoon salt & ½ teaspoon black pepper – Balances the flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional) – A subtle touch of warmth and depth.

Optional Add-Ins & Garnishes

• Fresh parsley – For a pop of color and freshness.
• Red pepper flakes – If you like a little heat.
• Grilled mushrooms or spinach – For extra texture and nutrition.

How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Tortellini Alfredo

This dish comes together in just a few easy steps, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced home cooks.

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
4. Remove from the pan and let it rest before slicing into thin strips.

Step 2: Cook the Tortellini

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions (typically 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini, 5-7 minutes for frozen).
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously.
4. Add cream cheese and whisk until fully melted and smooth.
5. Gradually add grated Parmesan, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens (about 3-5 minutes).
6. Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using).

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Add the cooked tortellini to the Alfredo sauce, tossing gently to coat each piece in the creamy sauce.
2. Slice the cooked chicken and place it on top.
3. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, extra Parmesan, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Serve immediately while warm, with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Now, get ready to dig into this rich and creamy Olive Garden Chicken Tortellini Alfredo—better than the restaurant version!

Tips for the Best Chicken Tortellini Alfredo

Want to make your Olive Garden Chicken Tortellini Alfredo even better?

These tips will help you achieve a rich, creamy sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and tender, flavorful chicken every time.

1. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan

Pre-shredded Parmesan doesn’t melt as smoothly as freshly grated cheese. For the creamiest Alfredo sauce, grate your Parmesan straight from the block.

2. Cook Tortellini Just Until Al Dente

Overcooked tortellini can become mushy and fall apart in the sauce. Check the package instructions and taste-test a piece before draining.

3. Don’t Overheat the Alfredo Sauce

Alfredo sauce can break if overheated. Keep the heat on medium-low and stir frequently to prevent separation.

If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of milk or pasta water to loosen it.

4. Let the Chicken Rest Before Slicing

Cutting the chicken immediately after cooking causes the juices to escape, making it dry.

Let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to keep it tender and juicy.

5. Add a Little Pasta Water

For an ultra-silky sauce, stir in ¼ cup of reserved pasta water before serving.

The starch helps bind the sauce to the tortellini.

6. Adjust the Seasoning

Taste your Alfredo sauce before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and Parmesan as needed for a balanced flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is how customizable it is.

Here are a few ways to switch it up based on your preferences or dietary needs.

Protein Variations

• Swap the chicken – Use grilled shrimp, steak, or rotisserie chicken for a quick alternative.
• Make it vegetarian – Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for a hearty meat-free version.
• Try a spicy kick – Use blackened or Cajun-seasoned chicken to add a bold flavor contrast.

Tortellini Substitutes

• Use different pasta – If you don’t have tortellini, substitute with fettuccine, penne, or ravioli.
• Go for whole wheat or gluten-free options – Many brands offer whole wheat or gluten-free tortellini for a healthier twist.

Dairy-Free & Lighter Alternatives

• Replace heavy cream – Use half-and-half, whole milk, or a mix of milk and cornstarch for a lighter sauce.
• Dairy-free Alfredo – Swap out dairy ingredients for coconut milk or cashew cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.

Extra Add-Ins for More Flavor

• Vegetables: Add broccoli, peas, cherry tomatoes, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Seasonings: Try a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, garlic powder, or a dash of lemon zest for an added depth of flavor.
• Bacon or pancetta: Crumbled crispy bacon or pancetta takes this dish to another level of indulgence.

No matter how you customize it, this Olive Garden Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is sure to be a delicious and satisfying meal every time!

What to Serve with Chicken Tortellini Alfredo

This rich and creamy Chicken Tortellini Alfredo pairs perfectly with light, fresh sides to balance out the indulgence.

Here are some of the best accompaniments:

1. Garlic Bread or Breadsticks

A classic choice! Warm, buttery garlic bread or soft, Olive Garden-style breadsticks are perfect for soaking up every last bit of Alfredo sauce.

2. Fresh Salad

A crisp salad adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta. Try a Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and parmesan or a simple garden salad with a light vinaigrette.

3. Roasted or Steamed Vegetables

Add a nutritious touch with roasted broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini. Steamed green beans or sautéed spinach also work well.

4. Light Soup

Pair it with a light soup like Minestrone or Zuppa Toscana for a full Italian-inspired meal.

5. Wine Pairing

If you enjoy wine, serve this dish with a crisp Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio to complement the creamy sauce.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta and warm it over low heat to maintain the creamy consistency.

Freezing (Not Recommended for Best Quality):

• While you can freeze the dish, the Alfredo sauce may separate upon thawing. If freezing, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring in extra cream or milk to restore texture.

Reheating Tips:

• Stovetop (Best Method): Heat in a pan over low-medium heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or cream if the sauce is too thick.
• Microwave: Reheat in short intervals (30 seconds at a time), stirring in between to prevent separation.

Final Thoughts

This Olive Garden Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is the perfect dish for those who love creamy, cheesy, and satisfying pasta.

With a homemade Alfredo sauce that’s rich yet easy to make, it’s a restaurant-quality meal you can enjoy right at home.

Whether you serve it for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, it’s guaranteed to impress!

Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out!

Did you add any fun variations? Leave a comment below and share your delicious creations.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the Alfredo sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore its smooth consistency.

2. Can I freeze Chicken Tortellini Alfredo?

It’s best to freeze the sauce separately rather than the fully assembled dish.

Store Alfredo sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

When ready to serve, reheat slowly and add fresh tortellini.

3. How do I prevent the Alfredo sauce from becoming too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, stir in a small amount of pasta water, milk, or cream to loosen it.

Keep the heat low while reheating to prevent separation.

4. What’s the best type of tortellini to use?

Fresh cheese-filled tortellini is ideal for the best flavor and texture.

However, frozen tortellini also works well—just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

5. Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

Absolutely! While homemade Alfredo sauce is creamier and more flavorful, a high-quality store-bought sauce can be a quick and convenient alternative.

Just heat it up and mix it with your cooked tortellini and chicken.