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Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo Recipe

4.6 from 63 reviews

A healthier twist on the classic Chicken Alfredo, this low calorie version combines tender chicken breasts, fresh broccoli, and a creamy Parmesan sauce made lighter with whole milk and cream cheese. Served over your choice of pasta, this comforting yet nutritious dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 810 ounces pasta (any shape)
  • 2 cups broccoli florets

Chicken

  • 2 medium chicken breasts (pounded flat or cut in half)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Sauce

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter)
  • 1/2 onion (minced)
  • 56 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup chicken stock (or water)
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 oz cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup freshly-grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Cook pasta al dente in generously salted boiling water following package directions. Add broccoli florets during the last minute of cooking to soften them. Drain both and set aside.
  2. Cook Chicken: Heat a large pan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Season chicken breasts evenly with garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Place chicken in the pan and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until fully cooked through. Remove from pan and let rest for 5 minutes, then slice or dice.
  3. Prepare Sauce Base: In the same pan, add another tablespoon of olive oil and the minced onion. Cook on medium heat for 3-5 minutes until the onion softens. Add minced garlic and sauté about 30 seconds until golden and fragrant. Whisk in all-purpose flour and cook for about 30 seconds, lightly toasting it.
  4. Add Liquids and Cheese: Gradually whisk in chicken stock and whole milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and stir in cream cheese and Parmesan until smooth and creamy. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the sauce and toss well to coat. Arrange the sliced or diced chicken on top or mix it in as preferred. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • For a lower calorie version, use whole wheat pasta or a vegetable-based pasta.
  • You may substitute chicken stock with water, but stock adds more flavor.
  • Resting the chicken after cooking keeps it juicy.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste especially salt and pepper towards the end.
  • Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor.

Keywords: Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo, Healthy Chicken Alfredo, Chicken Broccoli Alfredo, Creamy Chicken Pasta, Light Alfredo Sauce