Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo: Healthy & Creamy (Print Version)
Enjoy a healthier take on classic Alfredo! This skinny chicken and broccoli Alfredo is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Italian
# Ingredients:
→ Lean Protein & Garden Greens
01 -
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 -
4 cups fresh broccoli florets
→ The "Skinny" Creamy Dream
03 -
1 1/2 cups low-fat milk (1%)
04 -
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
05 -
2 oz light cream cheese
06 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
07 -
1 tbsp cornstarch
→ Hearty Foundation & Flavor Boosters
08 -
8 oz whole wheat fettuccine
09 -
1 tbsp olive oil
10 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
11 -
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
12 -
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
13 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
# Instructions:
01 -
Cook 8 oz whole wheat fettuccine according to package directions. Drain and set aside. While pasta cooks, cut 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. Season with salt and black pepper, preparing for your Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo: Healthy & Creamy Dinner.
02 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. This is a key step for your Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo: Healthy & Creamy Dinner.
03 -
In the same skillet, add 3 cloves garlic, minced, and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add 4 cups fresh broccoli florets and 1/4 cup water. Cover and steam for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp, ensuring perfect texture for your dish.
04 -
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups low-fat milk (1%), 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth, and 1 tbsp cornstarch until smooth. Stir in 2 oz light cream cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg.
05 -
Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the broccoli. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. Return the cooked chicken and drained whole wheat fettuccine to the skillet. Toss to coat everything evenly, creating the creamy base for your Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo: Healthy & Creamy Dinner.
06 -
Season the Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo: Healthy & Creamy Dinner with additional salt and black pepper to taste. Divide among 4 plates. Garnish with 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, and extra grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately for a delicious and healthy meal.
# Notes:
01 -
For an even richer flavor, you can substitute a portion of the low-fat milk with unsweetened almond milk or a splash of white wine.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to restore creaminess.
03 -
Don't overcook the broccoli; it should be tender-crisp to retain its vibrant color and nutrients. A quick steam is all it needs before joining the creamy sauce.
04 -
Enhance your meal by serving this Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo with a side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, or some crusty whole-grain bread for dipping.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
Whisk
04 -
Cutting board
05 -
Chef's knife
06 -
Measuring cups
07 -
Measuring spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 590 kcal
Total Fat: 16 g
Total Carbohydrate: 61 g
Protein: 57 g