While Italy is known for its rich culinary heritage, Chicken Alfredo is not a traditional Italian dish. Instead, it is a modern creation that melds the best of Italian flavors with American innovation. The roots of the dish can be traced back to Alfredo di Lelio, an Italian chef who gained fame for his fettuccine al burro in early 20th-century Rome. This simple dish of fettuccine pasta tossed in butter and Parmesan cheese evolved over time, inspiring the creation of Chicken Alfredo as we know it today.
At the heart of Chicken Alfredo lies its luscious and velvety sauce. The marriage of heavy cream, butter, and grated Parmesan cheese gives birth to a silky symphony that envelops each strand of pasta and every tender morsel of chicken. This creamy base provides a canvas for flavor experimentation, from the subtle notes of Parmesan to the comforting richness of cream.While the gourmet world often dazzles with intricate techniques and exotic ingredients, Chicken Alfredo remains a steadfast favorite, embodying comfort and nostalgia. It’s the dish that welcomes weary souls on a cold evening, the remedy for a bad day, and the centerpiece of celebratory feasts.
Chicken Alfredo stands as a testament to the dynamic nature of cuisine. Its journey from a Roman trattoria to kitchens around the world highlights the way culinary traditions adapt, evolve, and inspire. With each bite of creamy, chicken-laden pasta, we savor not just a meal but a story of creativity, passion, and the unifying power of food.
So, the next time you savor the decadence of Chicken Alfredo, remember that you’re indulging in more than just a dish – you’re experiencing a symphony of flavors that bridges cultures and time.
Creamy Chicken Alfredo
Ingredients
- 4 Pcs. Chicken Thighs Seasoned, baked, cubed
- 1 Box Spaghetti Pasta
- 1 Stick Butter
- 1 Cup Heavy Cream
- 1 Cup Chicken Broth
- 1 Cup Parmesan Cheese Grated
- 6 Cloves Garlic Minced
- Salt and Pepper To Taste
- Thyme (or herb of choice) Garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta as directed making sure it's al dente, set aside.
- In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic until slightly golden.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow to heat through but avoid boiling it.
- Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring constantly. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Add the pasta and the pre-cooked chicken to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy Alfredo sauce. You can use tongs to mix the pasta and sauce together gently. (You may use chicken breast if preferred. I find the texture and fat of the chicken thighs complementary to the richness of Pasta Alfredo.)
- Once the pasta is well coated, remove the skillet or saucepan from the heat.
- Garnish with your herb of choice and serve.
The Pairing
Bowmore 15
43 ABV
Well-balanced notes of sherry, toffee and stewed fruits to cap off this indulgent meal.
