Olive Garden Chicken Carbonara Recipe

If you’ve ever twirled your fork through the creamy, savory layers of Olive Garden’s famous carbonara, you know exactly why the Olive Garden chicken carbonara recipe has a cult following. Now imagine creating that same indulgent, golden forkful in your own kitchen — no wait time, no reservations, just flavor-packed comfort at home.

A Rich, Creamy Classic with Homemade Heart

The Olive Garden chicken carbonara recipe isn’t just a pasta dish — it’s a sensory journey. Picture sizzling golden chicken, smoky notes from crisped turkey bacon, and pasta swirled in a silky Parmesan cream sauce that clings to every strand. The aroma is a melody of garlic, butter, and roasted red bell peppers — the kind that calls everyone to the table before you can even say, “Dinner’s ready.”

I remember my first bite of carbonara at Olive Garden on a chilly winter night — the buttery noodles, the umami-rich cheese, the unexpected sweetness of bell peppers. It felt luxurious, like I had found my ultimate comfort food. Recreating that feeling at home became a personal mission. This version honors the original, with every tweak thoughtfully made for bold flavor and real-world ease.

Why This Olive Garden Chicken Carbonara Recipe Works

This recipe doesn’t just mimic the restaurant version — it elevates it. You’ll get tender chicken with a golden crust, rich yet balanced sauce that doesn’t feel heavy, and just the right amount of crunch from seasoned breadcrumbs. Whether you’re making this for Sunday dinner, a date night in, or a crowd-pleasing weeknight meal, the Olive Garden chicken carbonara recipe delivers.

What Makes This Olive Garden Chicken Carbonara Recipe Stand Out

• Balanced richness: Cream, eggs, and cheese bring decadence, while the bell peppers brighten every bite.
• No shortcuts: We build flavor at every step — browning, seasoning, and simmering intentionally.
• Restaurant quality, home simplicity: Every ingredient is accessible, and no fancy techniques are required.
• Customizable: Want to make it dairy-free or gluten-free? We’ll cover that too.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Olive Garden chicken carbonara recipe is made with common pantry and fridge staples, elevated with a few fresh components for flavor and texture.

For the Pasta & Chicken

• 12 oz spaghetti or bucatini, cooked al dente
• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced lengthwise for quick cooking
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Kosher salt and cracked black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, for sautéing

For the Carbonara Sauce

• 4 egg yolks
• 1 ¼ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, but it warms the flavor)
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional heat)

Mix-Ins & Toppings

• 6 strips of turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 small red bell pepper, diced and lightly sautéed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons seasoned breadcrumbs, toasted in a dry skillet
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Necessary Tools for the Perfect Finish

Making the Olive Garden chicken carbonara recipe doesn’t require professional equipment, but having the right tools makes all the difference for timing and texture.

• Large nonstick or stainless-steel skillet: For browning the chicken and building the sauce in one pan.
• Medium saucepan: To cook pasta evenly.
• Whisk: Critical for emulsifying egg yolks into the cream base without curdling.
• Tongs: Ideal for tossing pasta and coating it evenly in the sauce.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures chicken is perfectly cooked at 165°F inside.
• Microplane or fine grater: For fresh Parmesan — avoid pre-shredded if possible.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Helps stir without scratching your pans.

Smart Substitutions & Creative Additions

One of the beautiful things about the Olive Garden chicken carbonara recipe is how flexible it can be for different diets or preferences — without compromising that velvety, indulgent flavor.

Dietary-Friendly Swaps

• Turkey bacon: Skip traditional pork and opt for turkey bacon, which crisps up beautifully and brings smoky depth.
• Plant-based cream: Coconut cream or unsweetened oat cream works well for dairy-free versions.
• Gluten-free pasta: Chickpea spaghetti or brown rice noodles can be used for a gluten-free base — just cook them al dente to prevent mushiness.
• Parmesan alternatives: For dairy-free or vegan diets, nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan crumbles provide similar umami tones.

Ingredient Upgrades

• Add shrimp: Like the Olive Garden combo dish? Add ½ pound of peeled shrimp in Step ③.
• Boost the veggies: Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes make excellent add-ins.
• Breadcrumb mix-ins: Stir a bit of lemon zest or garlic powder into your toasted breadcrumbs for a fragrant crunch.

This flexibility makes the Olive Garden chicken carbonara recipe perfect for dinner guests with mixed dietary needs — or just to keep things interesting each time you make it.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Carbonara

Let’s walk through how to make the Olive Garden chicken carbonara recipe from scratch. Set aside about 40–50 minutes from start to serve.

① Prep the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry, then slice horizontally so they cook quickly and stay juicy. Season both sides with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, lay the chicken in a single layer. Sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and the internal temperature hits 165°F. Remove and set aside, covering loosely with foil.

Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan — work in batches if needed so you get a good sear, not a steam.

② Cook the Pasta and Turkey Bacon

Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

Meanwhile, in a separate nonstick skillet, cook turkey bacon over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, then crumble once cooled.

In the same skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté diced red bell pepper until just tender, about 3–4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds more. Remove from heat.

③ Make the Carbonara Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, nutmeg (if using), and red pepper flakes. Add a small splash of the hot pasta water to the bowl — whisking quickly to temper the eggs.

Return your large skillet to low heat. Add the drained pasta, turkey bacon, sautéed peppers, and garlic. Slowly pour in the sauce while tossing the pasta continuously with tongs. If needed, add a bit more reserved pasta water for a creamier texture.

Visual cue: The sauce should look glossy, cling to each noodle, and gently thicken without ever bubbling.

④ Assemble, Top & Broil (Optional but Delicious)

Slice the cooked chicken into strips. Nestle it on top of the sauced pasta in the skillet or transfer everything to an oven-safe dish.

Sprinkle mozzarella and breadcrumbs evenly over the top. Broil on high for 1–2 minutes until the cheese melts and breadcrumbs turn golden brown. Watch closely — it can go from golden to scorched in seconds.

⑤ Serve & Savor

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a final dusting of Parmesan. Serve immediately while the sauce is silky and warm.

You’ve just made a restaurant-quality Olive Garden chicken carbonara recipe in your own kitchen — and your table is about to fall in love.

Thoughtful Serving Suggestions

The beauty of the Olive Garden chicken carbonara recipe is that it shines on its own — but the right accompaniments can turn dinner into a full Italian-inspired experience.

Perfect Pairings

• Warm Breadsticks: Just like at Olive Garden, a basket of garlic-butter breadsticks makes the ideal scoop for extra sauce.
• Simple Garden Salad: Keep it light with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and a balsamic vinaigrette. The acidity cuts through the richness beautifully.
• Roasted Broccoli or Asparagus: Add a green element and a touch of char for contrast.
• Sparkling Apple Cider or Italian Soda: Non-alcoholic, fizzy options that cleanse the palate and echo restaurant charm.
• Lemon-Parsley Couscous (as a twist): If you’re looking to double starch and feed a crowd, this light and citrusy grain pairs surprisingly well.

For a cozy Sunday meal or a plated anniversary dinner, the Olive Garden chicken carbonara recipe is versatile enough to dress up or down. Serve family-style in a large bowl or portioned elegantly with parsley garnish and a cheese shaving or two.

Tips for the Best Results Every Time

Want your Olive Garden chicken carbonara recipe to come out like clockwork? Here are some tried-and-true tips from the test kitchen.

Pasta Tips

• Always salt your water like the sea: This is your first chance to infuse flavor directly into the noodles.
• Cook just past al dente if you like a slightly softer bite, especially since the pasta continues cooking slightly in the sauce.

Chicken Tips

• Slice breasts thinly to ensure fast, even cooking without drying out.
• Let cooked chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing — this keeps the juices locked in.

Sauce Perfection

• Use warm ingredients: Cold eggs added directly to a hot pan can seize and scramble. Let your egg yolks and cream sit at room temp briefly.
• Toss with tongs, not spoons: Tongs ensure that every strand of pasta is coated evenly in the sauce without breaking it.

Visual and Sensory Cues

• Look for glossy, golden sauce that thickens as it cools slightly — if it separates, a splash of pasta water can save it.
• Breadcrumbs should be crisp, not soggy. Toast them dry or with a whisper of oil for extra crunch.

Following these tips ensures your Olive Garden chicken carbonara recipe will consistently taste restaurant-worthy — and even better the second time you make it.

Storage Instructions That Preserve Flavor

The Olive Garden chicken carbonara recipe does have a creamy sauce, which means it takes a little finesse to store and reheat without compromising texture. But with the right methods, your leftovers will still be satisfying.

Refrigerating This Olive Garden Chicken Carbonara Recipe

Let the dish cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To prevent the pasta from drying out:

• Drizzle with a teaspoon of cream or broth before sealing.
• Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

Freezing the Leftovers for Later

While pasta carbonara isn’t an ideal freezer meal due to its dairy and egg content, it can still be frozen for up to 1 month if needed. Use freezer-safe containers and separate into smaller portions.

To reheat:

• Thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheat slowly on the stovetop, stirring often and adding a splash of cream or broth.
• Avoid the microwave if possible — it tends to overcook the sauce and dry out the chicken.

Best Way to Reheat

Hands down, the stovetop is the most reliable. Add a few tablespoons of liquid (milk, cream, or broth) and reheat covered, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a fresh sprinkle of Parmesan and parsley before serving.

The Olive Garden chicken carbonara recipe may be indulgent, but its leftovers can still be enjoyed if treated gently — and some say the flavors deepen beautifully by day two.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. While spaghetti or bucatini are traditional for the Olive Garden chicken carbonara recipe, fettuccine, linguine, or even penne will work. Just be sure to cook al dente to hold the sauce properly.

What can I use instead of turkey bacon?

For a vegetarian twist, try crispy tempeh strips or smoked paprika-roasted mushrooms. Both give you that savory, umami punch without meat. For other meat-based options, diced chicken sausage or turkey ham works well too.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the sauce components, cook the chicken, and even boil the pasta ahead of time. Just store each separately and combine when ready to serve. The Olive Garden chicken carbonara recipe comes together quickly once your mise en place is ready.

My sauce curdled — what went wrong?

This usually happens when eggs are added to a pan that’s too hot. Be sure to temper the yolks with warm liquid first and keep the heat low when mixing. Stir continuously and gently — patience makes a silky sauce.

Can I skip the broiling step?

Yes, but you’ll miss out on that melted cheesy cap and crispy breadcrumb top. If you don’t have a broiler, place the dish under a toaster oven or bake at high heat for a few minutes instead.

Olive Garden Chicken Carbonara Recipe

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• Author: Keyla Stewart
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Creamy, savory Olive Garden chicken carbonara made at home—rich Parmesan sauce, golden chicken, turkey bacon & pasta comfort!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Pasta & Chicken:

• 12 oz spaghetti or bucatini, cooked al dente
• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced lengthwise
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)

For the Carbonara Sauce:

• 4 egg yolks
• 1¼ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Mix-Ins & Toppings:

• 6 strips turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 small red bell pepper, diced and sautéed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp seasoned breadcrumbs, toasted
• Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prep Chicken: Slice and season chicken with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear in olive oil until golden and internal temp hits 165°F. Set aside.
2. Cook Pasta & Bacon: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water. Cook turkey bacon until crispy, then crumble. Sauté bell pepper and garlic in skillet.
3. Make Sauce: Whisk egg yolks, cream, Parmesan, nutmeg, and pepper flakes. Temper with hot pasta water.
4. Assemble: Toss pasta, bacon, veggies, and garlic in a skillet over low heat. Stir in sauce gradually, using tongs to coat. Add reserved pasta water if needed.
5. Broil (Optional): Add sliced chicken on top. Sprinkle mozzarella and breadcrumbs. Broil 1–2 minutes until golden.
6. Serve: Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Substitute dairy-free cream or vegan cheese as needed.
• Use chickpea or rice pasta for gluten-free variation.
• Add shrimp or extra veggies for a twist.
• Store leftovers up to 3 days in the fridge; reheat gently with added cream.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop + Broil
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate
• Calories: 720 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 870 mg
• Fat: 35 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 55 g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 42 g
• Cholesterol: 210 mg

Bringing It All Together

Few things feel as satisfying as sitting down to a meal you once believed only a restaurant could pull off. This Olive Garden chicken carbonara recipe brings that joy home. It’s creamy but not heavy, savory with subtle sweetness, and infinitely customizable. The sauce wraps each strand of pasta like velvet, while golden chicken and crisped turkey bacon add layers of comfort.

Whether you’re cooking for guests or feeding your weeknight crew, this dish offers restaurant luxury with everyday ingredients. Take a breath, pour something sparkling, and dive into one of the most craveable dinners you’ll ever make.

Additional Recipes You’ll Love

Looking for more meals that hit the same warm, creamy, comforting notes? Try these next:

• Cajun Shrimp Fettuccine Recipe – Creamy, spicy, and packed with juicy shrimp — a Southern twist on a classic pasta night.
• Blackened Chicken Alfredo Recipe – Smoky chicken meets rich Alfredo sauce in this crowd-pleaser that rivals any restaurant dish.
• Cheesecake Factory Louisiana Chicken Pasta Recipe – A bold, peppery pasta loaded with crispy chicken and a creamy Cajun kick.
• Crawfish Fettuccine Recipe – This indulgent Louisiana-style pasta is velvety, savory, and packed with shellfish flavor.

Each dish brings something special to the table — perfect for switching up your pasta night while staying deliciously familiar.