If you’re craving a creamy pasta dish without the heavy calories, this Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe is going to become your new favorite comfort meal. It cleverly blends tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious yet light Alfredo sauce made with low-fat cream cheese and chicken broth, all tossed with wholesome whole wheat fettuccine. This dish delivers that classic Alfredo creaminess you love, while keeping things fresh, flavorful, and guilt-free—perfect for dinner any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple, focusing on fresh, quality ingredients that each bring something special to the plate. The balance between protein, veggies, and whole grains means every bite is satisfying and nutritious.
- Chicken breasts: Use bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking and to soak up the sauce perfectly.
- Broccoli florets: Adds a fresh crunch and a pop of green that brightens the dish both in flavor and appearance.
- Olive oil: Provides a heart-healthy base to sauté chicken and garlic, giving the dish a subtle richness.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic depth that builds on every mouthful.
- Low-fat cream cheese: The secret to that velvety Alfredo texture without all the heavy cream calories.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the sauce light and adds savory complexity to the cream cheese base.
- Parmesan cheese: A classic finishing touch that provides sharp, nutty flavor and smooth melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
- Italian seasoning: Blends herbs like oregano and basil to enhance the sauce’s flavor with a subtle Mediterranean flair.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring everything together and highlight the natural flavors.
- Whole wheat fettuccine pasta: Adds a lovely nutty flavor and hearty texture, plus extra fiber for a filling meal.
How to Make Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the whole wheat fettuccine according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, ready to mingle with the rich sauce that’s coming together on the stove.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces in a single layer and let them cook until beautifully browned and cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes. This step is key to developing flavor and texture in your dish.
Step 3: Infuse Garlic Flavor
Once the chicken is cooked, toss in the minced garlic and stir it around for about a minute. Garlic’s quick sauté helps release its aroma, making the sauce irresistibly fragrant without burning it bitter.
Step 4: Build the Alfredo Sauce
Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, then stir in the low-fat cream cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir continuously as the sauce simmers, about 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the cream cheese to melt smoothly and the broth to reduce slightly, forming a light yet silky Alfredo sauce.
Step 5: Add Broccoli
Mix in the broccoli florets, letting them cook directly in the sauce for about 3 minutes. This quick steaming softens the broccoli just enough to retain some bite and its vibrant green color, balancing the creamy sauce perfectly.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Parmesan
Turn off the heat, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until every strand of fettuccine and piece of chicken and broccoli is coated with that luscious sauce.
Step 7: Season and Serve
Give the dish a final seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Your Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe is now ready to serve, bursting with flavor but light enough to enjoy any day.
How to Serve Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe
Garnishes
To add an extra layer of visual appeal and flavor, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a little extra grated Parmesan over the top right before serving. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also impart a subtle richness.
Side Dishes
Since this recipe already includes protein, veggies, and pasta, keep your sides simple—think a crisp mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette or some roasted cherry tomatoes. These fresh flavors complement the creamy Alfredo sauce without overwhelming it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe in small ramekins as individual portions. Another idea is to layer it in a clear glass baking dish with a sprinkle of mozzarella on top, then broil briefly for a bubbly, golden finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld more, making it an even tastier next-day meal.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, too. Portion it into freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up without diluting the flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli?
Absolutely! While broccoli adds a nice crunch and color, you can swap it out for cauliflower, asparagus, or even spinach for a different twist on the Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, replace the cream cheese and Parmesan with vegan alternatives and use a vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I use frozen chicken or vegetables?
Yes, just be sure to thaw them properly before cooking. Frozen chicken should be fully thawed to ensure even cooking, and frozen broccoli can be added directly but may require a slightly longer cooking time.
Is whole wheat pasta necessary?
Not at all! Whole wheat pasta adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber, but feel free to use your favorite pasta type or gluten-free versions to suit your dietary needs.
How can I boost the protein content of this dish?
Adding extra chicken or tossing in some cooked white beans or chickpeas can increase protein easily. You could also top it with toasted nuts like pine nuts for added crunch and protein.
Final Thoughts
This Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe is one of those rare gems that delivers creamy indulgence without the guilt, making it perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a satisfying meal the whole family will love. Give it a try—you might just find it becoming a staple in your kitchen too!
