Homemade Olive Garden Meal
Introduction
If you love Olive Garden, you will adore this Homemade Olive Garden Meal! It brings the magic of restaurant dining into your home. Enjoy a delicious salad, flavorful chicken, and creamy fettuccine Alfredo that will satisfy everyone at the table.
Why Make This Recipe
This meal is perfect for family gatherings, date nights, or even a cozy dinner on a weekend. It’s easy to prepare, and the whole family will enjoy it. Plus, you’ll save money compared to eating out! With fresh ingredients and simple steps, you can create a delightful dining experience right in your kitchen.
How to Make Homemade Olive Garden Meal
Here’s how you can whip up this tasty meal in no time.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups iceberg lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup whole pitted black olives, drained
- 1 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 4 medium firm Roma tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup seasoned croutons
- 6 whole pepperoncini peppers
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, fresh grated
- 2/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup white wine vinegar
- 3 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons garlic, fresh minced
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 pound thin spaghetti noodles
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt, divided
- 3/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 to 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small red pepper, cut into strips
- 1 small yellow pepper, cut into strips
- 1 small green bell pepper, cut into strips
- 1/2 medium red onion, cut into strips
- 1 1/2 tablespoons grated fresh garlic
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 1/4 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 16 ounces fettuccine
- 6 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, shredded
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped
Directions:
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For the salad, mix all salad ingredients together in a large bowl. In a jar, combine the dressing ingredients and shake until well mixed; drizzle over salad just before serving.
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For the chicken, cook spaghetti according to package instructions. In a bowl, mix flour, salt, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Coat the chicken strips in this mixture. Heat olive oil and butter in a pan over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown. Then, add peppers and onion, sauté for a few minutes, then add garlic, white wine, lemon juice, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Simmer until chicken is cooked through.
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To make the Alfredo sauce, melt butter in a pan, add minced garlic, and season with salt and garlic powder. Whisk in flour, then gradually add heavy cream and milk, stirring until it thickens. Finally, add parmesan cheese and stir until melted. Toss the cooked fettuccine in the sauce until well coated.
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Serve the salad, chicken, and fettuccine Alfredo separately or combine them as you like.
How to Serve Homemade Olive Garden Meal
Plate the salad in a bowl and drizzle with your prepared dressing. Serve the chicken on a plate next to a generous helping of fettuccine Alfredo. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for that extra touch!
How to Store Homemade Olive Garden Meal
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also keep your salad separate to maintain its freshness. Reheat the chicken and fettuccine in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy again.
Tips to Make Homemade Olive Garden Meal
- Make your salad dressing a day in advance for deeper flavor.
- Use fresh herbs if you have them for even more flavor.
- Don’t overcook the chicken; it should stay juicy and tender.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by adding other veggies like spinach or mushrooms to the chicken mixture. If you’re a fan of shrimp, swap out the chicken for sautéed shrimp to create a seafood version of this meal!
FAQs
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Can I make the Alfredo sauce ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best fresh. If you do make it ahead, store it separately and reheat gently. -
What can I serve with this meal?
Garlic bread or a classic Italian dessert like tiramisu would be great additions! -
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! You can use mozzarella or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor.
Enjoy making your Homemade Olive Garden Meal, and share it with family and friends for a delicious dining experience!
