If you’re craving a rich, creamy pasta dish without the extra calories, this Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe is about to become your new weeknight superstar. It perfectly balances tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a luscious, guilt-free Alfredo sauce that feels indulgent but is surprisingly light. This recipe delivers all the comforting flavors you love, with a wholesome twist that doesn’t skimp on taste or texture. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this dish is a vibrant, satisfying meal that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and keeping the dish nutritious without sacrificing creaminess. They are simple, easy to find, and come together effortlessly.
- Chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces, they add lean protein and heartiness.
- Broccoli florets: Offer vibrant color, crunch, and a boost of fiber and vitamins.
- Olive oil: Used to sauté and bring out natural flavors with a subtle richness.
- Garlic cloves: Minced finely for that unmistakable aromatic punch.
- Low-fat cream cheese: The secret to creamy sauce without the heaviness of traditional heavy cream.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the sauce flavorful while controlling sodium levels.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty notes and enhances texture.
- Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs to elevate the taste profile.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing all the elements together just right.
- Whole wheat fettuccine pasta: Adds a nutty flavor and whole grain nutrition for a wholesome base.
How to Make Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking the whole wheat fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions. This step is key because perfectly cooked pasta is the foundation that holds the entire dish together. Once done, drain and set it aside to keep it warm and ready for the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook them until they are beautifully browned and cooked through—about 5 to 6 minutes. The golden sear adds texture and develops deeper flavor, so don’t rush this part.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Next, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Garlic infuses such a wonderful aroma and a savory backbone that subtly lifts the entire dish.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Stir in the low-sodium chicken broth, low-fat cream cheese, and Italian seasoning. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens. This creamy yet light sauce is what makes this Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe stand out from the heavier traditional versions.
Step 5: Cook Broccoli
Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for an additional 3 minutes. This keeps them tender but still with a satisfying crunch, adding a fresh burst of green color and nutrition.
Step 6: Combine and Finish
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together so each strand of pasta is coated with that luscious Alfredo sauce. Finish by seasoning generously with salt and pepper to taste, and your dish is ready to enjoy right away.
How to Serve Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a pinch of red pepper flakes on top for a vibrant pop of color and a touch of heat that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. A few extra shavings of Parmesan also never hurt!
Side Dishes
For a complete meal, pair this dish with a crisp garden salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some crusty whole grain bread to soak up every last bit of that delightful Alfredo sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this in shallow bowls for a rustic feel or twirl the pasta elegantly on each plate to create a restaurant-worthy presentation. Adding a wedge of lemon on the side invites diners to add a bright zing that cuts through the richness, making every bite exciting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making it a great option for meal prep.
Freezing
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the broccoli might soften slightly upon thawing.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water can help loosen the sauce and restore the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli?
Absolutely! Vegetables like spinach, peas, or asparagus work wonderfully in this recipe and add their own unique flavors and textures.
Is low-fat cream cheese necessary for the sauce?
Using low-fat cream cheese helps keep the calories down while maintaining creaminess, but you can substitute with regular cream cheese or even Greek yogurt for a different twist.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the whole wheat fettuccine with your favorite gluten-free pasta and follow the recipe as usual.
How do I ensure the chicken stays moist and tender?
Cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces and not overcooking it helps keep it tender. Cooking over medium heat until just cooked through is key.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This dish reheats well and tastes great leftover, making it perfect for lunches or quick dinners during a busy week.
Final Thoughts
This Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe truly hits all the marks — it’s easy, wholesome, and absolutely bursting with flavor. If you want a creamy pasta dish that doesn’t weigh you down but still feels like a treat, I encourage you to give this a try. Once you do, it might just become your go-to comfort meal that’s as healthy as it is satisfying.
Print
Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A healthy and creamy Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo made with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a lightened-up Alfredo sauce using low-fat cream cheese and low-sodium chicken broth, served over whole wheat fettuccine for a nutritious and satisfying meal in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup broccoli florets
Dairy and Cheese
- 1/2 cup low-fat cream cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Pantry Staples
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz whole wheat fettuccine pasta
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the whole wheat fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce and chicken.
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Cook Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet and cook them until they are browned on the outside and cooked through, which should take about 5 to 6 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook it with the chicken for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make Sauce: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, add the low-fat cream cheese and Italian seasoning to the skillet, and stir well. Let the mixture simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
- Add Broccoli: Toss in the broccoli florets and cook for an additional 3 minutes, allowing the broccoli to soften while absorbing the sauce flavors.
- Combine and Finish: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the cooked pasta into the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Season and Serve: Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
- Use low-fat cream cheese and low-sodium chicken broth to keep the recipe light and healthy.
- Whole wheat fettuccine provides more fiber and nutrients compared to regular pasta.
- For an extra protein boost, add some cooked peas or mushrooms along with broccoli.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it a little longer before adding broccoli.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will enhance flavor better than pre-grated varieties.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
