This Healthy Skinnier Alfredo with Chicken and Broccoli is a lighter twist on a classic favorite, perfect for satisfying your pasta cravings without the guilt! It combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy sauce, making it a hearty meal that everyone will love.
Why make this recipe
Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also packed with protein and nutrients. Using almond milk and a lower amount of cheese makes it a healthier option compared to traditional creamy Alfredo. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb lean chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to make it
- Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken and garlic, cooking until chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Add broccoli florets to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth and almond milk. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the chicken and broccoli. Bring to a simmer.
- Stir in cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately.
How to serve it
Serve this dish warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty whole grain bread to soak up the sauce.
How to store it
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or almond milk to bring back the creaminess.
Helpful tips
- To make cooking even easier, you can prep the chicken and chop the broccoli ahead of time.
- If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer a little longer after adding the chicken broth and almond milk.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning at the end to suit your preferences.
Optional variations
- For a vegetarian version, swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas.
- Add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, to increase the dish’s nutritional value and flavor.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use whole milk instead of almond milk?
Yes, you can substitute whole milk for almond milk if you prefer a creamier sauce, but it will increase the calorie count.
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Lean chicken breast is recommended for a healthier dish, but you can also use cooked rotisserie chicken for quick prep.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components ahead of time, like cooking the pasta and chicken, then combining everything right before serving for the best texture.
Healthy Skinnier Alfredo with Chicken and Broccoli
A lighter twist on classic Alfredo, featuring tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy sauce for a delicious, hearty meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Healthy
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb lean chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken and garlic, cooking until chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Add broccoli florets to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth and almond milk. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the chicken and broccoli. Bring to a simmer.
- Stir in cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or almond milk.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 60mg


