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If you’ve ever dined at Olive Garden, you know how irresistible their Crispy Chicken Alfredo is—perfectly breaded chicken with a crunchy golden crust, resting atop a bed of rich, creamy Alfredo-coated fettuccine.
The combination of crispy and creamy textures makes this dish a true comfort food classic.
With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can recreate the magic of Olive Garden right in your own kitchen.
No need to wait for a restaurant visit—this homemade version is just as indulgent, if not better!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Restaurant-Quality at Home
This copycat recipe delivers the same delicious flavors and textures as the Olive Garden favorite, using simple, everyday ingredients.
Perfectly Crispy Chicken
The secret to this dish’s signature crunch lies in the perfect breading technique.
A flavorful blend of panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and seasonings ensures each bite is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
Lusciously Creamy Alfredo Sauce
Made from butter, heavy cream, and freshly grated parmesan, this Alfredo sauce is rich, smooth, and packed with authentic Italian flavors.
Family-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Serve it with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad, and you’ve got a restaurant-worthy meal everyone will love.
Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step process!
Health Benefits of Olive Garden Crispy Chicken Alfredo:
While this dish is indulgent, it provides several benefits:
- Protein-Rich: The chicken breast provides a significant amount of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and immune function.
- Calcium and Vitamin D: The parmesan cheese in the Alfredo sauce is a good source of calcium, which is important for bone health and muscle function.
- Healthy Fats: The use of butter and heavy cream provides fat that helps with nutrient absorption, although it’s important to consume these in moderation.
- Carbohydrates for Energy: The fettuccine pasta provides complex carbohydrates, which fuel the body and keep you energized for longer periods.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Garlic and nutmeg contribute to the flavor while offering health benefits like antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start cooking, gather all the necessary ingredients to ensure a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience.
For the Crispy Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to an even thickness)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese (adds a savory, cheesy coating)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups heavy cream (for a rich, creamy texture)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 ounces cream cheese (optional, for extra thickness)
- ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (adds depth of flavor)
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
- Water for boiling
- 1 teaspoon salt (for seasoning the pasta water)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare and Bread the Chicken
- Pound the chicken – Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This ensures even cooking.
- Set up a dredging station – In three separate bowls, prepare:
- Bowl 1: Flour
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
- Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bread the chicken – Dredge each piece of chicken in flour, shaking off excess, then dip it into the eggs, and finally coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks.
Step 2: Fry the Chicken to Golden Perfection
- Heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the breaded chicken in the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C)).
- Transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Keep warm.
Step 3: Cook the Fettuccine Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente (tender yet slightly firm).
- Drain and set aside. Toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking if needed.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Alfredo Sauce
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes (don’t let it boil).
- Stir in parmesan cheese and cream cheese (if using). Whisk continuously until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Simmer for another 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
- Slice the crispy chicken into strips and place on top of the pasta.
- Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a restaurant-style presentation.
Now, you’re ready to serve and enjoy your homemade Olive Garden Crispy Chicken Alfredo!
Pro Tips for the Best Crispy Chicken Alfredo
Use Panko Breadcrumbs for Extra Crunch
Panko breadcrumbs are light and airy, making them perfect for achieving that crispy, crunchy texture you love in fried chicken.
Don’t substitute regular breadcrumbs—they won’t give you the same delightful crunch!
Don’t Overcrowd the Frying Pan
When frying the chicken, make sure there’s enough space in the pan for each piece to cook evenly.
Overcrowding the pan traps steam and can cause the coating to become soggy rather than crispy.
Fry the chicken in batches if necessary.
Ensure the Chicken is Evenly Pounded
To ensure the chicken cooks evenly, it’s important to pound it to an even thickness.
This helps avoid overcooking the thinner parts while making sure the thicker parts are fully cooked.
Simmer the Alfredo Sauce Gently
When making the Alfredo sauce, simmer it gently.
High heat can cause the cream to separate or curdle, so keep the heat low and steady while stirring.
The result will be a smooth, velvety sauce.
Use Freshly Grated Parmesan
For the best flavor and smoothest texture, always use freshly grated parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated cheese.
Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s consistency.
Serve Immediately
The crispy chicken is best enjoyed right away while it’s still crunchy.
Step 1: Prepare and Bread the Chicken
- Pound the chicken – Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This ensures even cooking.
- Set up a dredging station – In three separate bowls, prepare:
- Bowl 1: Flour
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
- Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bread the chicken – Dredge each piece of chicken in flour, shaking off excess, then dip it into the eggs, and finally coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks.
Step 2: Fry the Chicken to Golden Perfection
- Heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the breaded chicken in the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C)).
- Transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Keep warm.
Step 3: Cook the Fettuccine Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente (tender yet slightly firm).
- Drain and set aside. Toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking if needed.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Alfredo Sauce
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes (don’t let it boil).
- Stir in parmesan cheese and cream cheese (if using). Whisk continuously until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Simmer for another 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
- Slice the crispy chicken into strips and place on top of the pasta.
- Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a restaurant-style presentation.
Now, you’re ready to serve and enjoy your homemade Olive Garden Crispy Chicken Alfredo!
Pro Tips for the Best Crispy Chicken Alfredo
Use Panko Breadcrumbs for Extra Crunch
Panko breadcrumbs are light and airy, making them perfect for achieving that crispy, crunchy texture you love in fried chicken.
Don’t substitute regular breadcrumbs—they won’t give you the same delightful crunch!
Don’t Overcrowd the Frying Pan
When frying the chicken, make sure there’s enough space in the pan for each piece to cook evenly.
Overcrowding the pan traps steam and can cause the coating to become soggy rather than crispy.
Fry the chicken in batches if necessary.
Ensure the Chicken is Evenly Pounded
To ensure the chicken cooks evenly, it’s important to pound it to an even thickness.
This helps avoid overcooking the thinner parts while making sure the thicker parts are fully cooked.
Simmer the Alfredo Sauce Gently
When making the Alfredo sauce, simmer it gently.
High heat can cause the cream to separate or curdle, so keep the heat low and steady while stirring.
The result will be a smooth, velvety sauce.
Use Freshly Grated Parmesan
For the best flavor and smoothest texture, always use freshly grated parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated cheese.
Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s consistency.
Serve Immediately
The crispy chicken is best enjoyed right away while it’s still crunchy.
If you need to make it ahead, store the components separately and assemble the dish just before serving.
Variations and Add-Ons
Spicy Kick: Add Red Pepper Flakes
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the Alfredo sauce.
If you need to make it ahead, store the components separately and assemble the dish just before serving.
Variations and Add-Ons
Spicy Kick: Add Red Pepper Flakes
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the Alfredo sauce.
This small addition adds a subtle, spicy kick without overwhelming the dish’s creamy richness.
Lighter Version: Swap for Grilled Chicken
If you’re looking to cut back on calories or prefer a lighter option, grilled chicken can replace the crispy fried chicken.
Marinate the chicken in a bit of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for added flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Crispy Eggplant
For a vegetarian take, swap the chicken for crispy breaded eggplant slices.
Follow the same breading and frying process as you would with chicken, and serve the crispy eggplant on top of the pasta for a delicious plant-based alternative.
Add Veggies for Extra Flavor
If you want to add more veggies to the dish, consider tossing in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes.
These ingredients complement the creamy Alfredo sauce and add a fresh, vibrant element to the dish.
Try Different Pasta Shapes
While fettuccine is traditional, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or linguine.
Just be sure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions for the best texture.
These variations and tips ensure you can personalize your Olive Garden-inspired dish to your preferences while keeping that signature crispy and creamy balance intact.
Final Thoughts & Serving Suggestions
The Olive Garden Crispy Chicken Alfredo recipe is a perfect combination of crispy, golden chicken and indulgent, creamy pasta that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner, a special family gathering, or a cozy date night, this dish never disappoints.
The crispy chicken paired with the rich Alfredo sauce creates a comforting and filling meal that feels like a restaurant-quality experience right at home.
For the best presentation and taste, serve your Crispy Chicken Alfredo with a side of freshly baked garlic bread and a light green salad.
The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the pasta, while the garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
Don’t forget to garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese for that extra touch of flavor. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make the crispy chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can fry the chicken in advance and store it in an airtight container for up to 1 day.
However, the chicken is best when it’s freshly fried to maintain its crispiness.
To reheat, place the chicken on a wire rack in a hot oven to crisp it up again.
2. Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce instead of making it from scratch?
Absolutely! While homemade Alfredo sauce adds a personal touch, store-bought versions can save time and still offer a creamy base.
Just make sure to enhance it with a little extra parmesan and seasoning for the best flavor.
3. How do I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, keep the pasta and chicken in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
When reheating, heat the pasta gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to restore the creamy texture.
4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta.
There are plenty of excellent gluten-free options available for both the breading and the pasta that will give you a similar texture and flavor.
5. How can I make the dish spicier?
If you like spice, try adding red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce or seasoning the chicken with a bit of cayenne pepper before frying.
You can also toss in some jalapeños or chili oil to give it that extra fiery kick.
Olive Garden Crispy Chicken Alfredo
Equipment
- Large skillet (for frying)
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Three shallow bowls (for breading station)
- Meat mallet (for pounding chicken)
- Tongs (for frying chicken)
- Wire rack or paper towels (for draining fried chicken)
- Whisk (for sauce)
- Large spoon or spatula (for tossing pasta)
- Grater (for fresh parmesan)
Ingredients
For the Crispy Chicken:
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup vegetable oil for frying
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 ounces cream cheese optional
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 1 teaspoon salt for pasta water
Instructions
Prepare and Bread the Chicken:
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge each piece of chicken first in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down to ensure a thorough coating.
Fry the Chicken:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the chicken in the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F or 74°C).
- Transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to drain.
Cook the Fettuccine Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, reserving a small amount of pasta water to help thin the Alfredo sauce if needed.
Make the Alfredo Sauce:
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese and optional cream cheese for extra creaminess. Whisk until the sauce is smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Simmer for another 2 minutes to thicken.
Assemble the Dish:
- Toss the cooked fettuccine with the Alfredo sauce until evenly coated.
- Slice the crispy chicken into strips and place on top of the pasta.
- Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For a lighter version, consider grilling the chicken instead of frying it.
- If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can use regular breadcrumbs, though the texture may not be as crispy.
- To add a bit of spice, mix red pepper flakes into the Alfredo sauce or sprinkle them on top.
- The Alfredo sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a little cream or milk to restore its creamy consistency.
- Make sure to use freshly grated parmesan for the best texture and flavor in both the sauce and the chicken breading.
