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
Scale
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.
