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
Scale
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.
