Olive Garden Copycat Chicken Pasta

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and set aside. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water for adjusting the sauce consistency later.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet (you can leave a little chicken drippings for flavor), melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it brown.
3. Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes to create a roux. This helps thicken the sauce.
4. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
5. Add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
6. Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens. If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in a little reserved pasta water.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the cooked pasta to the creamy sauce in the skillet. Toss gently to coat every strand evenly.
2. Add the sliced chicken on top, stirring lightly to combine.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate the pasta and chicken.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and cracked black pepper for that restaurant-quality finish.
3. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Tips for Extra Flavor

• Chicken: Marinate the chicken in a little olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs for 30 minutes beforehand to enhance the flavor.
• Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-shredded for a smoother, creamier sauce.
• Vegetables: For a lighter touch, add sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers to the pasta.

With this Olive Garden Copycat Chicken Pasta, you get the indulgent, creamy sauce and tender chicken that feels like a special dinner but is surprisingly easy to make at home. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in, this dish will surely impress anyone who loves rich, comforting pasta.

If you want, I can also create a foolproof 30-minute version that’s even faster but still tastes just like Olive Garden. Do you want me to do that?