Olive Garden’s Chicken Con Broccoli is a beloved dish. It’s creamy, hearty, and delicious.
This dish combines juicy chicken, fresh broccoli, and rich Alfredo sauce. It’s a favorite for many who visit Olive Garden. The combination of flavors and textures makes it stand out. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, making this dish at home can be rewarding.
You can enjoy the taste of Olive Garden without leaving your kitchen. In this blog, we will explore the steps to recreate this tasty meal. You’ll learn how to make it just like the restaurant. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful recipe. Let’s dive in and make Olive Garden’s Chicken Con Broccoli at home!
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Ingredients
Crafting the perfect Olive Garden Chicken Con Broccoli at home starts with the right ingredients. Using fresh and quality items ensures a delicious and satisfying meal. Let’s break down the essential items and some optional additions that can enhance the dish.
Essential Items
First, you need boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They should be fresh and trimmed. Broccoli florets are also crucial. Fresh broccoli gives the best taste and texture.
Next, the pasta. Fettuccine or any similar pasta works well. It should be cooked al dente.
Garlic adds flavor. Use fresh cloves, minced finely. Olive oil is essential for sautéing the chicken and garlic.
For the sauce, heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese are key. They create a rich and creamy base.
Optional Additions
Red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick. Use sparingly to control the heat.
Mushrooms bring an earthy flavor. Sauté them with the chicken for extra depth.
Lemon zest adds a bright, fresh note. Grate a small amount into the sauce.
Finally, fresh basil or parsley for garnish. They add color and a fresh taste.
Preparation
Creating Olive Garden Chicken Con Broccoli at home is easier than you think. The key lies in the preparation of each ingredient. Let’s break it down step by step to ensure you get that perfect taste every time.
Chicken
First, prepare the chicken breasts. Rinse and pat them dry. Season both sides with salt and pepper. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor. Heat a pan over medium heat with a tablespoon of olive oil. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side. The chicken should be golden brown and cooked through. Set the cooked chicken aside to rest.
Broccoli
While the chicken rests, it’s time to prepare the broccoli. Rinse the broccoli thoroughly. Cut it into bite-sized florets. Boil a pot of water and add a pinch of salt. Add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. Cook them for about 3 minutes, until they are bright green and tender. Drain the broccoli and set it aside.
By preparing each ingredient properly, you’ll ensure the best flavors and textures in your Olive Garden Chicken Con Broccoli dish. Enjoy the process and the delicious result!
Cooking Instructions
Cooking the Olive Garden Chicken Con Broccoli is simple. Follow these steps to create this delicious dish in your own kitchen. Each step will guide you through the process, ensuring your meal is perfect.
Sauté Chicken
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil. Slice the chicken breast into thin strips. Season with salt and pepper. Place the chicken strips in the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes. Turn the strips occasionally. Ensure each piece is golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet. Set aside on a plate.
Steam Broccoli
Fill a pot with water. Bring to a boil. Add a pinch of salt. Place a steamer basket over the pot. Cut the broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Place the broccoli in the steamer basket. Cover the pot with a lid. Steam for 3-5 minutes. Check the broccoli’s tenderness. It should be bright green and slightly tender. Remove the broccoli from the steamer. Add to the plate with the chicken.
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Making The Sauce
Create the perfect sauce for Olive Garden Chicken Con Broccoli by combining cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. This rich and savory blend enhances the dish’s flavors.
When making the Olive Garden Chicken Con Broccoli, the sauce is the true hero that brings this dish to life. This creamy, flavorful sauce perfectly complements the tender chicken and fresh broccoli, creating a delightful symphony of flavors. Let’s dive into the process of making this delicious sauce, ensuring it’s as close to the restaurant version as possible.Creamy Base
The creamy base is where it all begins. Start with some butter in a pan over medium heat. Once melted, add a bit of flour to create a roux. Stir continuously to avoid lumps. Gradually pour in heavy cream while stirring. This creates a rich and smooth consistency. The key is to keep stirring to ensure the cream doesn’t scorch. You might have a favorite brand of heavy cream, but any high-quality option will do. The higher the fat content, the creamier your sauce will be.Seasoning
Seasoning is what transforms the sauce from bland to grand. Start with salt and pepper, but don’t stop there. Garlic powder and onion powder add depth. A pinch of nutmeg might sound odd, but it adds a subtle warmth. Trust me, it makes a difference. Lastly, add a handful of grated Parmesan cheese. It melts into the sauce, adding a savory touch. Stir until everything is well combined. What seasoning do you think would make this sauce even better? Experiment and find your perfect mix.Combining Ingredients
Combining ingredients is the key to creating a delicious Olive Garden Chicken Con Broccoli dish. The right blend of chicken, broccoli, and sauce brings out the best flavors. Each ingredient plays a vital role, making the dish a favorite among many.
Mixing Chicken And Broccoli
Start with tender chicken breasts. Cook them until they are golden brown. While the chicken cooks, steam the broccoli. This keeps it crisp and green. Mixing the chicken and broccoli creates a balanced flavor. The juicy chicken pairs well with the fresh broccoli. Both ingredients complement each other perfectly.
Adding Sauce
The sauce binds the chicken and broccoli together. A creamy Alfredo sauce works wonders. It adds richness to the dish. Pour the sauce over the chicken and broccoli. Stir gently to mix everything well. The sauce should coat every piece. This makes each bite full of flavor. The creamy texture enhances the overall taste.
Serving Suggestions
Pair Olive Garden Chicken Con Broccoli with garlic bread for a satisfying meal. For a lighter option, serve with a fresh side salad.
When serving Olive Garden Chicken Con Broccoli, presentation and complementary sides can elevate the meal to a delightful dining experience. Let’s explore some serving suggestions that will make your dinner both impressive and delicious.Plating
Start with a clean, white plate to make the vibrant colors of the dish pop. Place the chicken breast in the center of the plate. Arrange the broccoli and pasta around the chicken in a way that looks natural yet organized. Drizzle the creamy sauce over the top, ensuring some sauce pools around the pasta. Sprinkle a bit of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. Garnish with a sprig of parsley for a fresh touch.Side Dishes
Pairing Olive Garden Chicken Con Broccoli with the right side dishes can enhance its flavors. A simple Caesar salad with crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and a tangy dressing complements the rich, creamy main dish perfectly. Garlic bread is another excellent choice. The crusty exterior and soft, buttery inside with a hint of garlic add a satisfying crunch and flavor contrast. For a lighter option, consider steamed green beans with a squeeze of lemon. The freshness of the beans and the citrus zing balance the creamy pasta. What are your favorite side dishes to serve with creamy chicken recipes? Experimenting with different sides can lead to new family favorites.Tips And Tricks
Creating the perfect Olive Garden Chicken Con Broccoli at home can be a delightful experience. There are several tips and tricks to help you achieve restaurant-quality results. This section will guide you through useful cooking tips and ingredient substitutes to make this dish truly delicious.
Cooking Tips
First, marinate your chicken to enhance its flavor. Use olive oil, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken until it’s no longer pink inside. This usually takes about 6-7 minutes per side. Don’t overcook it, or it will become dry.
For the broccoli, steam it for about 4-5 minutes. It should be tender but still crisp. Avoid boiling, which can make it mushy and less nutritious.
When making the sauce, use a heavy-bottomed pan. This helps distribute heat evenly. Stir continuously to avoid burning. Add the cheese gradually and let it melt completely for a smooth texture.
Ingredient Substitutes
If you don’t have fresh garlic, use garlic powder. One teaspoon of garlic powder equals about one clove of fresh garlic.
Can’t find Italian seasoning? Mix dried basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. Use equal parts of each for a homemade blend.
For a healthier option, replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt. It provides a creamy texture with less fat. You can also use low-fat milk instead of whole milk.
If you prefer gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. Rice noodles also work well and add a unique texture to the dish.
Lastly, if you want a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with tofu or mushrooms. Both absorb flavors well and provide a satisfying bite.
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Nutritional Information
Olive Garden Chicken Con Broccoli is a delightful dish loved by many. It’s important to know the nutritional content of this meal. Understanding calories and macronutrients helps you make informed choices.
Calories
One serving of Olive Garden Chicken Con Broccoli contains around 1,020 calories. This figure includes the chicken, broccoli, pasta, and creamy sauce. It’s a rich meal, ideal for those needing extra energy.
Macronutrients
This dish provides a balanced mix of macronutrients. It contains approximately 41 grams of protein. Protein is essential for muscle growth and repair.
It also includes about 56 grams of fat. Fat is crucial for energy and cell health. Most of the fat comes from the creamy sauce.
Lastly, it has around 86 grams of carbohydrates. Carbs give you energy and support brain function. The pasta is the main source of carbohydrates in this dish.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Chicken And Broccoli Sauce Made Of?
Chicken and broccoli sauce typically includes soy sauce, garlic, ginger, chicken broth, cornstarch, and sometimes oyster sauce. It’s a flavorful blend perfect for stir-fry dishes.
Why Did Olive Garden Get Rid Of Stuffed Chicken Marsala?
Olive Garden removed stuffed chicken marsala due to changes in their menu offerings and customer preferences. They regularly update their menu to introduce new dishes and maintain variety.
Can You Replace Noodles With Broccoli At Olive Garden?
Yes, you can replace noodles with broccoli at Olive Garden. Request the substitution when ordering your meal.
How Many Calories In A Side Of Broccoli From Olive Garden?
A side of broccoli from Olive Garden contains 30 calories. It’s a healthy and low-calorie option.
Conclusion
Enjoy making Olive Garden Chicken Con Broccoli at home. This simple recipe brings restaurant flavors to your kitchen. Your family will love the creamy, cheesy taste. Cooking it yourself adds a personal touch. Share this delightful meal with friends. It’s perfect for any dinner.
Try this easy recipe today. Happy cooking!