Description
This Low-Calorie Chicken Alfredo is a lighter version of the classic creamy pasta dish made with lean chicken, whole wheat fettuccine, and a rich yet balanced Alfredo sauce. It is comforting, flavorful, and perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup low-fat milk
1 cup unsweetened almond milk
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
8 ounces whole wheat fettuccine
1 cup steamed broccoli, optional
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the whole wheat fettuccine according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat and cook the chicken for 6–7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Remove from the pan and slice.
- In the same pan, sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes to create a light roux.
- Slowly pour in the low-fat milk and almond milk while whisking constantly until smooth.
- Cook the sauce until slightly thickened, then stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the sauce and toss until evenly coated.
- Mix in the steamed broccoli if using and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Swap broccoli with spinach, peas, zucchini, or mushrooms for variety.
Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Use extra Parmesan cheese for a creamier sauce while keeping the recipe light.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently with a splash of milk to maintain a smooth sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 29 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg