Olive Garden is a household name in Italian-American dining, known for its generous portions, comforting pasta dishes, and warm, family-style atmosphere. Over the years, it has developed a reputation for offering flavorful meals that blend traditional Italian elements with American tastes. Among the most popular menu items are signature entrées like Chicken Alfredo, Five Cheese Ziti al Forno, and the ever-evolving selection of specialty pastas.

One standout in recent years is the Asiago Tortelloni Alfredo with Grilled Chicken. This rich, satisfying dish has captured the attention of Olive Garden fans for its bold flavor profile and indulgent ingredients. It combines creamy Alfredo sauce, cheese-filled tortelloni, and expertly grilled chicken to create a dish that’s both comforting and crave-worthy. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a first-time visitor, this dish exemplifies the brand’s commitment to flavorful, satisfying Italian-American cuisine with a creative twist.

What is Asiago Tortelloni Alfredo with Grilled Chicken? 

Asiago Tortelloni Alfredo with Grilled Chicken is a savory entrée offered by Olive Garden that features cheese-stuffed tortelloni pasta smothered in creamy Alfredo sauce and topped with slices of seasoned, grilled chicken breast. What sets this dish apart is the inclusion of Asiago cheese, which adds a tangy and nutty depth to the sauce and pasta filling.

The tortelloni are slightly larger than traditional tortellini and are generously stuffed with a blend of cheeses, including ricotta, Parmesan, and the star ingredient—Asiago. The Alfredo sauce, already known for its rich and buttery flavor, is elevated further with the distinctive sharpness of the Asiago.

Topping it all is a serving of grilled chicken breast that’s seasoned and cooked to bring a slightly smoky, charred element that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. The dish is usually garnished with parsley and extra grated cheese for added flavor and presentation.

This entrée is a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and smoky flavors, offering a filling and indulgent experience that Olive Garden diners often return for. It’s not just a pasta dish—it’s a full sensory meal that showcases the brand’s talent for comfort food with a gourmet edge.

History and Inspiration Behind the Dish

While Olive Garden does not publicly disclose the exact origins of every new menu item, the inspiration behind the Asiago Tortelloni Alfredo with Grilled Chicken is rooted in traditional Italian cuisine, adapted for American preferences. Tortelloni, a larger cousin of tortellini, hails from Northern Italy, particularly the Emilia-Romagna region, where stuffed pasta is a regional specialty.

Alfredo sauce, although made famous in the U.S., was originally a simple butter and Parmesan sauce served with fettuccine in Rome. Olive Garden’s version is a cream-based adaptation that caters to American tastes with its rich, thick texture and added cheeses.

The use of Asiago cheese—a tangy, semi-hard cheese from the Veneto region—adds a modern twist to the traditional Alfredo. By pairing it with grilled chicken, Olive Garden creates a hearty and well-balanced dish that reflects its commitment to blending Italian culinary roots with contemporary American dining habits. It’s a dish built for flavor, comfort, and mass appeal.

Detailed Ingredient Breakdown

The Asiago Tortelloni Alfredo with Grilled Chicken may appear simple at first glance, but each component plays a vital role in delivering its rich and layered flavor profile. Here’s a closer look at what goes into this indulgent dish:

Tortelloni Pasta: Tortelloni are larger and softer than traditional tortellini, making them ideal for holding generous amounts of cheese. Olive Garden’s version is stuffed with a creamy blend of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Asiago cheeses. The filling is smooth, tangy, and rich, designed to complement the Alfredo sauce.

Alfredo Sauce: A cornerstone of many Olive Garden pasta dishes, this sauce is a luxurious blend of heavy cream, butter, garlic, and grated cheeses. For this dish, Asiago is added to the traditional Parmesan to give it a slightly sharper flavor. The sauce is velvety and coats the pasta thoroughly, providing both taste and texture.

Grilled Chicken: The grilled chicken breast is marinated with a blend of Italian herbs and spices, then grilled to achieve a slightly smoky char. It’s sliced and placed atop the pasta, adding protein and a savory contrast to the creamy base.

Toppings and Garnish: The dish is often finished with a sprinkle of parsley for color and a dusting of additional cheese for extra richness. Some versions may also include cracked black pepper or a drizzle of olive oil for enhanced flavor.

Together, these elements create a dish that is indulgent yet well-balanced, appealing to a wide variety of palates.

Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations

Asiago Tortelloni Alfredo with Grilled Chicken is a deliciously rich and satisfying meal, but it is also high in calories, fat, and sodium—important factors for those tracking their dietary intake. A single serving of this entrée typically contains approximately:

• Calories: 1,450 to 1,600 kcal

• Total Fat: 90g (with about 55g from saturated fat)

• Carbohydrates: 85–100g

• Protein: 45–50g

• Sodium: 2,300–2,600mg

• Sugar: 5–8g

• Dietary Fiber: 3–5g

These numbers can vary slightly depending on portion size, regional preparation differences, and any optional additions like extra cheese or sauce.

From a nutritional standpoint, this dish is high in protein, making it filling and satisfying. However, it is also rich in saturated fat and sodium, which may not make it an ideal choice for those with dietary restrictions related to heart health, high blood pressure, or calorie control.

For individuals with food sensitivities or specific diets, it’s important to note that the dish contains gluten (from the pasta), dairy (from the cheese and sauce), and possibly traces of other allergens like soy or eggs. Olive Garden typically provides allergen information upon request, and guests can also explore lighter menu options or ask for modifications, such as removing the grilled chicken or ordering a smaller portion.

Taste and Texture Review: What to Expect 

The Asiago Tortelloni Alfredo with Grilled Chicken delivers a deeply satisfying flavor and texture combination that appeals to fans of creamy, cheesy comfort food. The first bite reveals the rich, buttery Alfredo sauce infused with a sharp, slightly nutty Asiago kick that lingers on the palate. The cheese-filled tortelloni are soft yet substantial, with a smooth, creamy center that melts with each mouthful.

The grilled chicken adds a necessary savory balance, offering a lightly smoky flavor and tender bite that cuts through the richness of the sauce. The chicken is typically seasoned with herbs and salt, and the grilling process gives it a lightly crisp exterior.

Together, the dish achieves a rich, indulgent texture — soft pasta, velvety sauce, and firm, juicy chicken — that keeps it from feeling one-dimensional. It’s filling, hearty, and ideal for those craving a comforting, full-flavored meal without overpowering spice or acidity.

How Olive Garden Prepares It (Based on Research)

While Olive Garden does not publicly share its exact kitchen procedures, various sources and customer insights help piece together how this dish is prepared. The tortelloni pasta is likely pre-cooked and stored chilled, then reheated per order to ensure consistency and speed. The cheese filling inside the pasta appears to be a blend of multiple cheeses, pre-mixed for uniform flavor.

The Alfredo sauce is likely prepared in-house daily, using heavy cream, butter, garlic, and a blend of Parmesan and Asiago cheeses. Olive Garden’s Alfredo is known for its creamy thickness and balanced saltiness, making it a popular base for many entrées.

Grilled chicken is typically prepared in batches, seasoned with Italian herbs and salt, and cooked using a flat-top grill or open-flame method. The chicken is sliced and added to the plated pasta before garnishing. Everything is assembled just before serving, ensuring each component retains its flavor, texture, and temperature.

Can You Make It at Home? Copycat Recipe Guide

Yes, you can recreate Olive Garden’s Asiago Tortelloni Alfredo with Grilled Chicken at home with a few quality ingredients and some attention to detail. While it won’t be an exact replica, a homemade version can come surprisingly close in both taste and texture.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb refrigerated cheese tortelloni (preferably with Asiago or mixed cheeses)

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Salt, pepper, Italian seasoning (for chicken)

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ cup grated Asiago cheese

• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional garnish)

Instructions:

1. Grill the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Grill on medium heat for 6–8 minutes per side or until fully cooked. Slice into strips and set aside.

2. Prepare the Tortelloni: Cook the tortelloni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

3. Make the Alfredo Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Slowly stir in the Parmesan and Asiago cheeses until melted and smooth.

4. Assemble the Dish: Add cooked tortelloni to the sauce and toss to coat. Plate the pasta and top with grilled chicken strips. Garnish with parsley and extra cheese if desired.

Tips:

• Use freshly grated cheese for better melt and flavor.

• For extra richness, add a splash of pasta water to the sauce.

• To reduce calories, swap heavy cream for half-and-half and grill with less oil.

Pairing Suggestions: What Goes Well With It

The richness of the Asiago Tortelloni Alfredo with Grilled Chicken pairs best with light and refreshing sides. A crisp house salad with Italian dressing helps cut through the creaminess of the pasta. Olive Garden’s famous garlic breadsticks offer a soft, salty companion perfect for dipping into leftover sauce.

In terms of beverages, a chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio or a sparkling lemonade balances the richness. For dessert, something light and fruity—such as lemon sorbet or tiramisu—complements the heavy entrée without overwhelming the palate. The goal is to create contrast while maintaining harmony across courses.

Where to Find It and Seasonal Availability

As of 2024–2025, Asiago Tortelloni Alfredo with Grilled Chicken is a regular menu item at most Olive Garden locations across the United States. It is featured under their “Chef’s Specials” or “Signature Pasta Dishes” section and is often promoted in combination deals or seasonal limited-time offers.

While not typically marked as seasonal, Olive Garden does rotate some dishes depending on popularity and availability of ingredients. It’s always best to check the online menu or call your local restaurant before visiting. Additionally, the dish is available for takeout and delivery through Olive Garden’s website and third-party apps like DoorDash and Uber Eats.

Customer Opinions and Reviews Round-Up

Customer reviews of the Asiago Tortelloni Alfredo with Grilled Chicken are generally very positive, especially among those seeking indulgent, cheese-heavy meals. Many reviewers describe the dish as “comfort food at its best,” citing the creaminess of the sauce and the well-seasoned, juicy grilled chicken as highlights.

On review platforms like Yelp and Reddit, users praise the rich flavor and portion size. A recurring comment is how the sauce-to-pasta ratio is generous, ensuring every bite is coated in Alfredo. Some customers mention that the dish can feel overly heavy, especially for those unused to rich sauces, but many see this as a plus.

There are occasional critiques regarding consistency, such as overcooked pasta or under-seasoned chicken, depending on the restaurant location. However, overall sentiment indicates that this dish is a standout on the Olive Garden menu and often gets repeat orders from returning guests.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Olive Garden’s Asiago Tortelloni Alfredo with Grilled Chicken spicy?
No, the dish is not spicy. It is savory and rich, with a creamy cheese-based sauce and herb-seasoned chicken.

How many calories are in this dish?
The entrée contains approximately 1,450 to 1,600 calories, depending on portion size and specific preparation.

What cheese is in Asiago Tortelloni?
The tortelloni is typically filled with a blend of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Asiago cheeses.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
No, the standard version includes grilled chicken. However, you can request it without chicken to make it vegetarian-friendly, though it still contains dairy and gluten.

Can you buy Olive Garden Alfredo sauce separately?
Yes, Olive Garden offers bottled Alfredo sauce available in some grocery stores and online. However, it may differ slightly from the restaurant’s in-house version.

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