Homemade Olive Garden Grilled Chicken – Just Like the Restaurant!

If you’ve ever dined at Olive Garden, you know their grilled chicken is something special.

Whether served over a creamy plate of fettuccine Alfredo or paired with a crisp Caesar salad, its juicy, herb-infused flavor is unforgettable.

But what if you could recreate this delicious dish in your own kitchen?

This Olive Garden Grilled Chicken recipe is not only easy to make but also brings the same smoky, savory flavors right to your dinner table.

With a simple yet flavorful marinade, perfectly grilled chicken, and endless serving possibilities, this is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Easy to Make

You don’t need fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients.

A handful of pantry staples and a grill (or stovetop pan) are all it takes to bring this dish to life.

2. Juicy & Flavorful Every Time

Thanks to the zesty Italian-inspired marinade, this grilled chicken turns out tender, juicy, and loaded with flavor.

The secret? A balance of olive oil, lemon juice, and savory seasonings that infuse the chicken with richness.

3. Versatile & Customizable

This dish isn’t just for pasta! Serve it over salads, with roasted veggies, or even in wraps and sandwiches.

You can also tweak the marinade to match your favorite flavors.

4. Healthy & Protein-Packed

Looking for a healthy yet satisfying meal?

This grilled chicken is low in carbs, high in protein, and gluten-free, making it perfect for a balanced diet.

5. Meal Prep Friendly

Grilled chicken stores well, making it a great choice for meal prep.

Cook a batch, refrigerate it, and enjoy it throughout the week in different dishes.

Health Benefits of Olive Garden Grilled Chicken

1. High-Protein Meal – This dish provides a substantial amount of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall satiety.
   
2. Low in Carbs – Great for low-carb and keto diets, as it contains minimal carbohydrates.
   
3. Rich in Healthy Fats – The olive oil in the marinade offers heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which help reduce inflammation and support cardiovascular health.
   
4. Supports Bone Health – Parmesan cheese (if used) is a good source of calcium and phosphorus, essential for maintaining strong bones.
   
5. Antioxidant-Rich Ingredients – Garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning contain antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress and support immune function.
   
6. Balanced Macronutrients – The combination of protein and healthy fats helps regulate blood sugar levels and keeps energy levels stable.
   
7. Versatile & Diet-Friendly – Since it’s gluten-free and can be paired with various sides, it fits into many dietary lifestyles, including Mediterranean and Paleo diets.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this Olive Garden Grilled Chicken at home is simple, requiring just a few pantry staples.

The key to achieving that signature flavor lies in the marinade, which keeps the chicken juicy, tender, and packed with Italian-inspired goodness.

For the Chicken & Marinade

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Pounded to an even thickness for even cooking.
• ¼ cup olive oil – Helps keep the chicken moist and enhances flavor.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice – Adds a bright, zesty tang.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – A must for rich, savory depth.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Complements the garlic for a well-rounded taste.
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning – The blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary mimics the Olive Garden flavors.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a little heat and balance.
• ½ teaspoon paprika – Gives a subtle smoky sweetness.
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional) – For extra richness and umami.

Optional for Serving

• Fettuccine pasta with Alfredo sauce
• Roasted or steamed vegetables
• Caesar salad
• Garlic bread

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
   
2. If using, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them.
   
4. Massage the marinade into the chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated.
   
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, marinate for 2-4 hours or overnight.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F). If using a stovetop grill pan, heat it over medium-high.
   
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off.
   
3. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
   
4. Avoid pressing down on the chicken with a spatula—this releases juices and can make it dry.

Step 3: Rest & Serve

1. Transfer the grilled chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices.
   
2. Serve hot with your favorite sides—over pasta, in a salad, or alongside roasted veggies.
   
3. For an authentic Olive Garden experience, drizzle with Alfredo sauce or serve with garlic bread.

Pro Tips for the Best Grilled Chicken

Want to achieve perfectly juicy, flavorful grilled chicken every time?

Follow these expert tips to take your dish to the next level.

1. Pound the Chicken for Even Cooking

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be uneven in thickness, which leads to uneven cooking.

Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them to a uniform thickness.

This ensures they cook evenly without drying out.

2. Don’t Skip the Marinating Time

The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it becomes.

At least 30 minutes is required, but for the best results, let it marinate for 2-4 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

3. Use a Meat Thermometer

Overcooked chicken is dry and tough, while undercooked chicken is unsafe.

Use a meat thermometer and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for perfectly juicy results.

4. Let the Chicken Rest Before Slicing

After grilling, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before cutting into it.

This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.

5. Get Those Perfect Grill Marks

To achieve restaurant-style grill marks:

• Preheat the grill properly before adding the chicken.
• Avoid moving the chicken too often—let it sear undisturbed for 3-4 minutes before flipping.
• Use a cast-iron grill pan if cooking indoors for a similar effect.

6. No Grill? No Problem!

If you don’t have a grill, you can still make this dish:

• Stovetop: Use a grill pan or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
• Oven: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Air Fryer: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, flipping once.

What to Serve with Olive Garden Grilled Chicken

This versatile grilled chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.

Whether you want a restaurant-style meal or a light, healthy dish, here are the best serving options:

1. Classic Olive Garden Pairing: Fettuccine Alfredo

For a true Olive Garden-inspired meal, serve your grilled chicken over a plate of creamy fettuccine Alfredo.

The smoky, seasoned chicken complements the rich, cheesy sauce perfectly.

2. Lighter Option: Caesar Salad

If you prefer a healthier meal, slice the grilled chicken and serve it over a Caesar salad with crisp romaine, Parmesan shavings, and crunchy croutons.

3. Low-Carb Alternative: Roasted Vegetables

For a low-carb or keto-friendly meal, serve the chicken with a side of roasted or grilled vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers.

4. Comfort Food: Mashed Potatoes & Garlic Bread

Pair your grilled chicken with creamy mashed potatoes and a side of garlic bread for a comforting, hearty meal.

5. Fresh & Flavorful: Lemon Butter Rice

A bright, citrusy rice dish balances the savory grilled chicken perfectly. Simply cook rice and toss it with butter, lemon zest, and fresh herbs for a refreshing side.

6. Sandwich or Wrap Option

Transform your grilled chicken into a sandwich or wrap by slicing it and stuffing it into a ciabatta roll or tortilla with lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of ranch or balsamic dressing.

With so many delicious serving ideas, you can enjoy Olive Garden-style grilled chicken in a new way every time!

Recipe Variations

• Garlic Butter Chicken: Brush the grilled chicken with melted garlic butter before serving for an extra-rich flavor.
  
• Spicy Cajun Twist: Add 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
  
• Lemon Herb Chicken: Increase the lemon juice and add fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme for a citrusy, herbaceous taste.
  
• Balsamic Glazed Chicken: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the grilled chicken for a tangy-sweet contrast.
  
• Stuffed Chicken: Butterfly the chicken breasts and stuff them with mozzarella cheese and sun-dried tomatoes before grilling.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  
• Freezing: Wrap each chicken breast in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  
• Reheating: Warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. Avoid overheating to prevent dryness.

Conclusion

Recreating Olive Garden’s Grilled Chicken at home is easier than you think!

With a simple yet flavorful marinade, perfectly grilled chicken, and endless serving possibilities, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Whether you serve it over creamy fettuccine Alfredo, in a fresh Caesar salad, or alongside roasted vegetables, it’s a versatile and delicious meal that the whole family will love.

Now that you have this restaurant-quality recipe, it’s time to fire up the grill and enjoy a homemade version of Olive Garden’s famous grilled chicken!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Yes! If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a stovetop grill pan, bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

• How long should I marinate the chicken?

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes.

However, 2-4 hours or overnight will give you the juiciest, most flavorful results.

• Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great for this recipe.

They may require an extra 1-2 minutes per side on the grill due to their higher fat content.

• What can I serve with this grilled chicken?

This chicken pairs perfectly with fettuccine Alfredo, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, Caesar salad, or garlic bread.

It also makes a great addition to sandwiches or wraps.

• How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes or microwave for 30-45 seconds until heated through.

Avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.