If you are looking for a comforting meal that doesn’t weigh you down, the Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe is just the answer you need. This delightful dish captures the creamy, rich flavors of classic Alfredo sauce while staying light and nutritious, thanks to wholesome ingredients like low-fat cream cheese, fresh broccoli, and tender chicken. The combination of whole wheat fettuccine with this vibrant sauce makes it a perfect weeknight dinner that’s not only filling but also bursting with flavor and color. Trust me, once you try this Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe, it will become a regular in your recipe collection for its ease and incredible taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe plays a starring role—simple, fresh, and packed with flavor. From the tender chicken and crisp broccoli to the creamy, cheesy sauce, each component adds texture, color, and a burst of taste that makes the dish unforgettable.
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: Provides lean protein and a satisfying bite to the dish.
- 1 cup broccoli florets: Adds a pop of green and a healthy crunch packed with vitamins.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Used for cooking chicken, it imparts a subtle fruitiness and keeps the dish light.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic depth and just the right kick of savory flavor.
- 1/2 cup low-fat cream cheese: Creates a luscious, creamy base for the Alfredo sauce without the heaviness.
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the sauce flavorful and smooth without extra salt.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds that irresistible nutty, salty kick that defines Alfredo dishes.
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning: Blends classic herbs, enhancing the overall flavor beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring out all the other flavors.
- 8 oz whole wheat fettuccine pasta: Provides a hearty, fiber-rich base for the dish with a satisfying chew.
How to Make Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Start by boiling your whole wheat fettuccine according to the package instructions. Cooking the pasta perfectly al dente is key here because it will soak up the creamy sauce without getting mushy. Once cooked, drain it well and set it aside—ready for tossing later.
Step 2: Brown the chicken
Heat up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook them until they are golden brown and cooked through, which usually takes about 5 to 6 minutes. This step ensures your chicken has a lovely sear, locking in juices and flavor.
Step 3: Sauté the garlic
Next, toss in the minced garlic, cooking it just for a minute until fragrant. This step releases that unmistakable aroma of garlic that sets the foundation for the rich Alfredo sauce without overpowering the dish.
Step 4: Make the sauce
Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and add the cream cheese along with the Italian seasoning. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes. This creamy mixture is the heart of the Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe.
Step 5: Add the broccoli
Stir in the fresh broccoli florets and cook them for an additional three minutes. This keeps the broccoli crisp-tender, preserving its bright green color and delightful texture.
Step 6: Finish with cheese and pasta
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and add the cooked fettuccine pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together to make sure the pasta is fully coated with the creamy sauce, and the broccoli and chicken are evenly distributed.
Step 7: Season and serve
Finally, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve your Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe immediately while it’s hot and silky smooth. It’s comforting, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful all at once.
How to Serve Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs such as chopped parsley or basil can be sprinkled on top to add a lovely burst of green and freshness. A little extra grated Parmesan never hurts to give it that cheesy, salty finish that everyone loves.
Side Dishes
Since this dish is already packed with protein and veggies, keep sides light and simple. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted cherry tomatoes complements the creamy Alfredo perfectly without competing for attention.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this dish in individual bowls topped with a lemon zest sprinkle to brighten up the creaminess. Or try plating it with a side of garlic bread made with whole grain baguette for an Italian-inspired feast that everyone will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to three days. To keep the sauce from thickening too much, stir in a splash of chicken broth or milk when reheating.
Freezing
This Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe doesn’t freeze as well due to the cream cheese sauce which can separate. If you plan to meal prep, it’s better to freeze the chicken and broccoli separately from the pasta and sauce for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from breaking. Adding a bit of broth or water will help restore the creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat fettuccine is recommended for its fiber and texture, but feel free to swap in your favorite pasta shape like penne or radiatori if you prefer.
Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese and Parmesan with dairy-free alternatives such as cashew cream and nutritional yeast to achieve a similar creamy, cheesy flavor.
How can I make this recipe lower in carbs?
To reduce the carb content, try using zucchini noodles or shirataki pasta instead of whole wheat fettuccine. This keeps the dish light while maintaining its comforting qualities.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
You definitely can, just be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the sauce to prevent it from becoming watery.
What can I do to make the chicken more flavorful?
Marinate the chicken briefly with a little olive oil, garlic, and Italian seasoning before cooking, or season it well with salt and pepper right before adding it to the pan for an extra punch of flavor.
Final Thoughts
There is something wonderfully satisfying about a creamy pasta dish that feels indulgent but still fits into a healthy lifestyle. This Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe strikes that perfect balance with fresh ingredients and soul-warming flavors. I can’t wait for you to give this recipe a try and enjoy a meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
Print
Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A healthy and delicious Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo made with whole wheat fettuccine, tender chicken pieces, fresh broccoli, and a creamy low-fat sauce. This quick and easy stovetop recipe is perfect for a flavorful dinner that won’t weigh you down.
Ingredients
Protein & Vegetables
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauces & Dairy
- 1/2 cup low-fat cream cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Liquids & Oils
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Dry Ingredients & Seasoning
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz whole wheat fettuccine pasta
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the whole wheat fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to keep warm.
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat, preparing the pan for cooking the chicken.
- Cook Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet and sauté until they are browned and cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Make Sauce: Stir in the low-sodium chicken broth, low-fat cream cheese, and Italian seasoning. Simmer the mixture gently until the sauce thickens, approximately 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add Broccoli: Incorporate the broccoli florets into the skillet and cook for an additional 3 minutes to soften them while retaining some crunch.
- Combine Parmesan & Pasta: Stir grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce, then add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta and sauce are well combined.
- Season & Serve: Season the dish with salt and pepper to your taste and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use low-fat cream cheese to keep the sauce creamy but reduce calories and fat.
- Whole wheat pasta adds extra fiber and nutrition compared to regular pasta.
- Broccoli florets can be steamed beforehand for softer texture if preferred.
- Italian seasoning can be substituted with a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
