If you are looking for a comforting dinner that tastes indulgent but keeps things light, this Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe is exactly what you need. It takes the creamy, cheesy goodness of classic Alfredo and pairs it with lean chicken and vibrant broccoli, creating a dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. With a homemade light sauce that clings beautifully to fettuccine or any pasta you like, this recipe is a perfect balance of creamy texture, tender protein, and fresh greens—a total crowd-pleaser that feels like a treat without the heaviness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is key to making this Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe shine. Each item plays a crucial role, from the tender chicken to the fresh broccoli and that dreamy light sauce that brings everything together.
- Broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen, these add a pop of color and a satisfying crunch to the dish.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cubed chicken serves as the lean protein star of the meal.
- Pasta (fettuccine or choice): Choose your favorite type for a perfect pasta base that soaks up the sauce.
- Low-fat milk: Keeps the sauce creamy without the extra calories of heavy cream.
- All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the Alfredo sauce to that luscious consistency we all love.
- Chicken broth: Adds depth and a savory note to the light sauce.
- Parmesan cheese: Packed with flavor, it creates that classic Alfredo cheese finish.
- Olive oil: Used for cooking the chicken, providing a rich base without overpowering flavors.
- Minced garlic: Delivers aromatic warmth and enhances every bite.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- Nutmeg (optional): Adds a subtle hint of spice that complements the cheesy sauce.
How to Make Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. The pasta should be firm enough to hold the sauce yet tender for a pleasant bite. Once cooked, drain it well and set it aside so it’s ready to soak up the sauce later.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
While the pasta cooks, steam or boil the broccoli florets just until they’re tender but still vibrant green. This will ensure they stay crisp, adding a fantastic texture contrast in the dish. Set the broccoli aside once done.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken pieces and cook until they are golden on the outside and cooked through. Season with salt and black pepper to keep the flavors simple yet delicious. Cooking the chicken this way keeps it juicy and tender, pairing perfectly with the creamy sauce.
Step 4: Make the Light Alfredo Sauce
In a separate saucepan, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant but not browned. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk quickly to form a roux. Gradually whisk in low-fat milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Let the sauce simmer on medium heat until it thickens into a smooth, creamy consistency. This light version of Alfredo cuts down on fat but delivers all the flavor you crave.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasonings
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce turns velvety and rich. Add a pinch of nutmeg if you like, which perfectly highlights the cheesy goodness with just a whisper of warmth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Mix the cooked chicken and broccoli into the Alfredo sauce to coat evenly. Then fold in the drained pasta, ensuring every strand is luxuriously covered with that creamy sauce. This final combination brings all the elements together in perfect harmony.
Step 7: Serve Immediately and Enjoy
Serve this comforting Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe straight from the pan while it’s warm and inviting. Adding a little extra Parmesan cheese on top makes it extra special!
How to Serve Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe
Garnishes
To make your dish pop visually and in taste, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the top. A little cracked black pepper or an extra dusting of Parmesan can elevate the flavors wonderfully. These simple touches bring a fresh aroma and a burst of color to your plate.
Side Dishes
This dish is rich enough to stand alone, but if you want to round out the meal, consider a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or simple garlic bread. Both complement the creamy Alfredo perfectly without overwhelming its delicate balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe in hollowed-out bell peppers or on a bed of zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative. You could also bake it briefly with a sprinkle of extra cheese on top for a golden crusty finish that’s sure to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled promptly to preserve freshness and maintain the best flavor and texture.
Freezing
Freezing is possible but less ideal because the cream sauce may separate slightly. If you choose to freeze, store in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month for best quality. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking and ensure the sauce recombines smoothly. Adding a splash of milk while reheating can help restore creaminess and keep the chicken tender.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional, you can swap in penne, linguine, or even whole wheat pasta to suit your preferences. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, try using dairy-free milk alternatives like almond or oat milk and a vegan Parmesan substitute. Keep in mind that the sauce texture may vary slightly without cheese.
How can I make this recipe lower in carbs?
Use spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles instead of pasta for a lighter option. This keeps the dish satisfying while lowering the carbohydrate content significantly.
Can I substitute chicken with another protein?
Definitely! Shrimp, turkey, or even tofu can be great alternatives. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on the protein’s requirements.
What’s the best way to ensure the sauce stays creamy and doesn’t separate?
Whisking continuously when adding milk and broth, and reheating gently without boiling, helps maintain a silky smooth sauce. Using low-fat milk instead of heavy cream also prevents separation.
Final Thoughts
This Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite weeknight meals because it feels indulgent without the guilt. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crisp broccoli work in harmony to create a satisfying dish you can enjoy anytime. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try making it yourself—it’s easier than you think and truly hits the spot every single time!
Print
Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A healthy and delicious Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo recipe that combines tender chicken, steamed broccoli, and a lightened-up Alfredo sauce made with low-fat milk and chicken broth. This comforting pasta dish is perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2–3 minced garlic cloves
Protein
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
Pasta
- 8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
Sauce
- 1 cup low-fat milk
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the chicken)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional for added flavor)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the broccoli: Steam or boil the broccoli florets until they are tender but still vibrant green, about 4-5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook until golden brown and no longer pink inside, approximately 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the Alfredo sauce: In a saucepan, sauté the minced garlic cloves over medium heat until fragrant, about 1 minute. Whisk in the flour to form a roux and cook for another minute. Gradually whisk in the low-fat milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking on medium heat until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
- Finish the sauce: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add a pinch of nutmeg if desired to enhance the flavor.
- Combine everything: Add the cooked chicken and broccoli to the Alfredo sauce, then toss in the drained pasta. Stir everything gently to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and the ingredients are well combined.
- Serve: Plate the Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo immediately. Optionally, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- You can substitute the fettuccine with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a different dietary preference.
- To make it dairy-free, try using a plant-based milk and vegan Parmesan cheese alternatives.
- Cooking the chicken in batches ensures even browning and prevents overcrowding the pan.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like parsley before serving.
