Olive Garden Chicken Tortellini Alfredo Recipe

Have you ever wanted to recreate Olive Garden’s Chicken Tortellini Alfredo so you can enjoy it fresh at home? I certainly have!

This recipe combines tender chicken with creamy Alfredo sauce and rich cheese tortellini. Beyond delish!

One helpful tip is to cook the tortellini until they are just shy of al dente, allowing them to absorb the flavors of the sauce while finishing in the pan.

Now, let’s get to the rest!

How to Make Olive Garden Chicken Tortellini Alfredo Recipe

 

Ingredients

• 1 lb Chicken Breasts (boneless, skinless)
• 1 lb Cheese Tortellini
• 4 tbsp Butter
• 2 Garlic Cloves (minced)
• 2 cups Heavy Cream
• 1 ½ cups Parmesan Cheese (grated)
• 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Begin by cooking the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions.

Drain and set aside.

Step 2:

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

Cook in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and fully cooked.

Remove and slice into strips.

Step 3:

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

Add minced garlic.

Cook until fragrant.

Step 4:

Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese.

Let it simmer until the sauce thickens.

Add in the Italian seasoning.

Step 5:

Combine the cooked tortellini and chicken into the sauce.

Mix well to coat everything evenly.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Fresh vs. Frozen Tortellini

I recommend using fresh tortellini if possible, as it cooks faster and tends to have a better texture compared to frozen tortellini, which may be a bit dense.

Enhancing the Sauce

For a richer taste, you can slowly mix in a tablespoon of cream cheese into the Alfredo sauce, which adds a subtle tangy flavor and a bit more thickness.

Adding Vegetables

Don’t hesitate to include vegetables like spinach or broccoli to enhance nutritional value while adding beautiful color and additional texture to the dish.

Chicken Substitution

If you’re short on time, you can substitute grilled or rotisserie chicken to save cooking time and avoid having to cook raw chicken breasts.

What to Serve with Olive Garden Chicken Tortellini Alfredo

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a classic option that pairs perfectly with Olive Garden Chicken Tortellini Alfredo.

You could toast some crusty bread with garlic butter for an aromatic and crunchy side dish.

You’ll find that the garlic and buttery notes complement the creamy Alfredo sauce beautifully.

Caesar Salad

A fresh Caesar salad brings a crisp and refreshing balance to your meal.

Romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can create a great contrast to the rich tortellini.

Don’t forget to top it off with a creamy Caesar dressing to tie it all together.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

For something a bit different, you might try serving roasted Brussels sprouts.

They have a nutty flavor and slight bitterness that works well with the creamy dish.

Simply roast them with olive oil, salt, and a sprinkle of pepper for a tasty side.

Lemon Asparagus

Consider lemon asparagus for a bright, zesty complement to your meal.

Just sauté asparagus spears with a splash of lemon juice and a hint of garlic.

The vibrant flavors can cut through the richness of the Alfredo, adding a refreshing twist.

Apple and Fennel Slaw

An apple and fennel slaw could be a surprising and tasty side dish as well.

The crunchy texture and sweet, licorice-like flavor provide a contrast that pairs wonderfully with the creamy pasta.

Plus, the freshness from the apples adds a touch of sweetness to the overall meal.

Variations and Substitutions

Tortelloni or Tortellini?

You can use tortelloni or tortellini based on availability.

Both will taste delicious with the Alfredo sauce!

Chicken Options

Substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a slightly richer flavor.

Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can be used for added convenience!

Cheese Choices

Parmesan is classic, but try Asiago or Romano for a different twist.

Each cheese variant brings its unique flavor to the sauce.

Sauce Enhancements

Add a pinch of nutmeg or garlic powder to the Alfredo sauce for extra depth.

These small additions can make a huge difference in flavor.

Vegetables and Extras

Include steamed broccoli, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes for added color and nutrition.

Your dish will not only look great, but it will also taste fantastic!

How to Store Leftover Chicken Tortellini Alfredo

Storing leftovers properly can really make your next meal as enjoyable as the first.

First, you’ll want to place the chicken tortellini alfredo in an airtight container.

Keeping air out helps maintain the freshness for a longer period!

Refrigeration

Store your leftovers in the refrigerator where they can keep well for about 3-4 days.

This way, you can savor them without worrying about spoilage occurring too soon.

Always ensure your fridge is set at a safe temperature to prevent any food issues!

Freezing

For extended storage, consider freezing your chicken tortellini alfredo.

You should use a freezer-safe container, which keeps it good for up to a month.

When you’re ready, defrost it in the fridge for a safe and gradual thaw.

Separate Components

If possible, store the chicken separately from the tortellini.

This helps retain the chicken’s crispy layer without letting it get soggy.

It’s a small step that makes a big difference in texture and taste!

Your leftovers will be ready to enjoy whenever you crave that delicious meal again.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the Fresh Ingredients

Always opt for fresh chicken and tortelloni instead of frozen.

Using fresh ingredients significantly improves the flavor and texture of the dish.

Overcooking the Chicken

Watch the chicken closely as it cooks until it’s just golden brown, around five to seven minutes.

Overcooked chicken becomes dry and less enjoyable in the rich sauce.

Using the Wrong Cheese

Don’t miss out on topping your dish with Asiago cheese!

Many people use Parmesan, but Asiago offers a unique, sharper flavor that enhances the Alfredo sauce beautifully.