While Olive Garden doesn't publicly release its exact recipes, we can analyze their menu description and common carbonara techniques to create a close approximation of their beloved Chicken Carbonara. This recipe focuses on achieving that signature creamy, savory, and slightly cheesy flavor profile Olive Garden is known for.
This isn't a direct copycat recipe, as the precise ingredients and ratios remain a closely guarded secret. However, this version prioritizes accuracy and flavor, drawing from culinary expertise and common carbonara preparation methods.
What Makes Olive Garden's Chicken Carbonara Unique?
Olive Garden's Chicken Carbonara distinguishes itself through a few key elements:
- Creamy Texture: Unlike traditional Roman carbonara, which relies solely on the emulsification of egg yolks, pasta water, and cheese, Olive Garden likely incorporates cream for extra richness and a smoother texture.
- Savory Chicken: The addition of chicken elevates the classic dish, adding another layer of protein and flavor. The chicken is likely seasoned simply to let the other flavors shine.
- Balanced Flavor Profile: A successful carbonara balances the richness of the cream and cheese with the saltiness of the pancetta (or in this case, possibly a similar cured meat) and pepper. Olive Garden’s version likely achieves this balance masterfully.
- Generous Portion Size: Olive Garden is known for its generous portions, so expect a hearty serving.
Approximating Olive Garden's Chicken Carbonara: A Recipe
This recipe aims to recreate the spirit of Olive Garden's Chicken Carbonara, focusing on achieving a similar taste and texture.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound linguine or spaghetti
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 ounces pancetta or thick-cut bacon, diced (can substitute with prosciutto for a more authentic, albeit less fatty, flavor)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Pancetta/Bacon: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and the pancetta/bacon. Cook over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the pancetta/bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, Parmesan cheese, and Pecorino Romano cheese. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream until well combined.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic and pancetta fat. Pour the egg yolk mixture over the pasta and toss to coat. Add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to help create a creamy sauce. Continue to toss until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add Chicken and Pancetta: Stir in the cooked chicken and pancetta/bacon. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan cheese and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper.
Frequently Asked Questions (PAA)
While there aren't specific Olive Garden-related PAAs, common carbonara questions apply:
What kind of cheese is in Olive Garden's Chicken Carbonara?
Olive Garden likely uses a combination of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano cheeses to achieve that characteristic sharp and savory flavor profile.
Is Olive Garden's Chicken Carbonara creamy?
Yes, Olive Garden's Chicken Carbonara is known for its creamy texture, likely achieved through the addition of heavy cream and the emulsification of egg yolks and pasta water.
How many calories are in Olive Garden's Chicken Carbonara?
The exact calorie count for Olive Garden's Chicken Carbonara isn't publicly available, and it will vary depending on portion size.
Does Olive Garden use cream in their Chicken Carbonara?
It's highly probable that Olive Garden uses heavy cream in their Chicken Carbonara recipe to achieve the desired creamy texture, unlike traditional Roman-style Carbonara.
This recipe provides a delicious and satisfying approximation of Olive Garden's Chicken Carbonara. Remember to adjust seasonings to your taste preferences. Enjoy!
