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If you’re looking for a delicious and flavorful meal with an Italian twist, look no further than Tuscan Garlic Chicken from Olive Garden. This tasty dish features succulent white meat chicken breasts cooked in a creamy garlic sauce, topped with melted cheese and fresh tomato slices over penne pasta. Not only is it a scrumptious dinner option, but the convenient menu choice fits perfectly into any busy lifestyle.
Plus, the variety of toppings available makes it easy to customize your plate to create something special each time you order! Read on to find out more about why Tuscan Garlic Chicken should be your next restaurant go-to meal.
What is Tuscan Garlic Chicken Olive Garden?

Tuscan Garlic Chicken is a dish served at Olive Garden restaurants. It consists of chicken breasts cooked in a creamy garlic sauce and topped with melted cheese, fresh tomatoes, and penne pasta. The dish is also available with grilled chicken for those looking for a lighter option.
Origins
Tuscan Garlic Chicken was created in 2006 as part of Olive Garden’s Tastes of the Mediterranean menu. The dish was inspired by Italian cuisine and is a unique twist on classic garlic chicken.
Health Benefits
Tuscan Garlic Chicken is an excellent way to get your daily dose of protein and other essential vitamins and minerals. It’s also a low-carb meal, making it a great option for those looking to watch their carbohydrate intake.
Tuscan Garlic Chicken Olive Garden Recipe

Tuscan Garlic Chicken is a simple and delicious meal that can be made in your own home. You’ll need white meat chicken breasts, garlic, cream cheese, grated Parmesan or Romano cheese, diced tomatoes, penne pasta, and olive oil.
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the garlic to cook for one minute.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook each side until golden brown (about 3-5 minutes per side).
4. In a separate bowl mix together cream cheese with grated Parmesan or Romano cheese until well combined.
5. Place the cooked chicken breasts in a greased baking dish and top with the cream cheese mixture.
6. Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes or until cheese is melted and golden brown.
7. Meanwhile, cook penne pasta according to package instructions.
8. When pasta is done cooking, drain it and add it to the baking dish with chicken and cream cheese mixture.
9. Top with diced tomatoes and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes or until everything is hot and bubbly.
10. Serve warm and enjoy!
Ways to Make the Dish More Interesting or Unique
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of spice.
- Top with toasted bread crumbs for extra crunch.
- Substitute the chicken for shrimp for something different.
- Use your favorite pasta instead of penne.
- Sprinkle with fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Tuscan Garlic Chicken makes a great dinner, but it also pairs perfectly with side dishes like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Serve yours with freshly baked garlic bread for an extra delicious meal!
Frequently Asked Questions | Tuscan Garlic Chicken Olive Garden
1. Is the Tuscan Garlic Chicken dish served with any sides?
Yes, the Tuscan Garlic Chicken is served with a side of freshly made garlic Parmesan mashed potatoes and oven-roasted vegetables. You can also order an additional side such as steamed broccoli or a garden salad to accompany your meal. This way, you can enjoy an even more satisfying and flavorful experience!
2. Is the Tuscan Garlic Chicken gluten-free?
Yes, the Tuscan Garlic Chicken is gluten-free and contains no wheat or rye ingredients. It is also a great option for those who are on a gluten-free diet!
3. Can I substitute the mashed potatoes with something else?
Yes, you can always customize your order to fit your dietary needs and preferences. We offer a variety of sides such as steamed vegetables, house salad or even a side Caesar salad. These options ensure that everyone can enjoy their meal without sacrificing flavor or taste!
4. What type of sauce is served with the Tuscan Garlic Chicken dish?
The Tuscan Garlic Chicken is served with a warm and creamy garlic cream sauce that is sure to add an extra layer of flavor to the dish. This sauce can also be used as a dip for your side dishes, so you can enjoy a more savory experience!
5. Is it possible to order the Tuscan Garlic Chicken without chicken?
Yes, you can absolutely customize your order by omitting the chicken if desired. If you do not want any meat in your meal, we offer plenty of vegetarian options such as our Roasted Vegetable Lasagna or Eggplant Parmigiana. These are great alternatives for those who prefer plant-based meals!
6. Does the restaurant offer vegan options?
Yes, we have multiple vegan options on our menu including veggie lasagna, vegetable-stuffed pasta shells and vegan Alfredo. These dishes are made with fresh ingredients and offer a delicious alternative to traditional dishes.
7. Is the Tuscan Garlic Chicken dish spicy?
No, the Tuscan Garlic Chicken dish is not spicy. The garlic cream sauce has a mild flavor that brings out the sweetness of the chicken and other ingredients in the dish. If you prefer your meal to have more heat, we suggest adding some red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce!

Tuscan Garlic Chicken Olive Garden
Equipment
- Skillet
- baking dish
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- white meat chicken breasts
- garlic
- cream cheese
- grated Parmesan or Romano cheese
- diced tomatoes
- penne pasta
- olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the garlic to cook for one minute.
- Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook each side until golden brown (about 3-5 minutes per side).
- In a separate bowl mix together cream cheese with grated Parmesan or Romano cheese until well combined.
- Place the cooked chicken breasts in a greased baking dish and top with the cream cheese mixture.
- Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes or until cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Meanwhile, cook penne pasta according to package instructions.
- When pasta is done cooking, drain it and add it to the baking dish with chicken and cream cheese mixture.
- Top with diced tomatoes and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes or until everything is hot and bubbly.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Final Thoughts
All in all, the Tuscan Garlic Chicken dish from Olive Garden is a must-try for the culinary connoisseur looking to experience the best of Italian cuisine. The combination of savory garlic, creamy Parmesan cheese, and beautiful diced tomatoes on top of tender chicken breasts create an unforgettable dish that will please any diner. The subtlety of its aroma and flavor transports you back to ancient Tuscany, where this flavor combination originated.
With every bite taking your taste buds on a journey through time and place, this is an occasion not to be missed. If you’re looking for great Italian food with a unique flair, dining out at Olive Garden can’t be beaten!
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