Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Cream Cheese is a rich and delicious twist on the classic dish that is perfect for any dinner occasion. Combining tender chicken, smooth cream cheese and flavorful spices, this delectable recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to try something new, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.
Ingredients
To create a mouthwatering Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Cream Cheese, you will need the following ingredients:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 box of fettuccine
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup cream cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: salt and red pepper flakes
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
To create your delectable Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Cream Cheese, follow these simple, step-by-step instructions:
1. Start by cooking the fettuccine according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook them for 4-5 minutes on each side or until they have developed a nice, golden-brown color.
3. Remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and allow them to rest before slicing into thin strips.
4. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and saute for 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Then, slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring.
5. Mix in the cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and black pepper. Cook the sauce over low heat for around 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens, making sure to stir occasionally.
6. Add the cooked chicken and fettuccine into the skillet with the sauce. Gently toss the mixture together to ensure everything is well coated in the sauce.
7. Finally, garnish your Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Cream Cheese with freshly chopped parsley. Season with salt and red pepper flakes, if desired.
History and Curiosities
Chicken Alfredo, which originated from Rome, Italy, was first created by Alfredo di Lelio, a restaurateur, in the early 20th century. The dish gained fame when American tourists began to visit Rome, and it quickly became a popular Italian-American cuisine. This creamy, decadent dish has stood the test of time and can be found in various forms in Italian-American restaurants worldwide.
The addition of cream cheese to this recipe elevates the dish’s richness and creaminess. This spin on the classic Chicken Alfredo makes it even more comforting and satisfying – perfect for cozy family dinners or a romantic meal at home. Cream cheese, although not a traditional Italian ingredient, has become a favorite addition to many Americanized Italian recipes, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish while keeping the European roots intact.
Curiously, the original Roman recipe for Fettuccine Alfredo did not involve cream or any other sauces, focusing instead on a simple combination of butter and Parmesan cheese. Despite these differences, the Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Cream Cheese remains an irresistible homage to the traditional dish, capturing the essence of Italian-American cuisine and the relentless pursuit of culinary creativity.
