Lightened Spinach Artichoke Chicken Alfredo

Whenever I think of comfort food, Lightened Spinach Artichoke Chicken Alfredo is one dish that instantly comes to mind. It’s creamy, satisfying, and brings back memories of cozy family dinners filled with laughter and warmth. The best part? This recipe is a healthier twist on the classic, allowing you to indulge without the guilt. Picture a beautiful evening where the aroma of garlic and fresh spinach envelops your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. As I stir in the luscious cheese and artichoke hearts, I can’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. This dish not only satisfies cravings but also nourishes the soul. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you just want something comforting and delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Main Ingredients for Lightened Spinach Artichoke Chicken Alfredo

The ingredients for this recipe are thoughtfully chosen, each playing a vital role in creating a balanced and flavorful dish. The combination of artichoke hearts, spinach, and chicken not only provides nutrition but also contributes to the rich, creamy texture we love. This recipe showcases how simple ingredients can work together to create a delightful meal.

• 14 ounces artichoke hearts, jarred: These tender hearts add a unique flavor and creamy texture to the dish, perfectly complementing the other ingredients.
• 3 cloves garlic: A must-have for adding depth and aromatic flavor to any savory dish.
• 1 pound chicken breast: Lean and protein-packed, the chicken brings substance to this meal.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: This healthy fat not only helps cook the chicken but also enhances the overall flavor.
• 3 ounces cream cheese, low fat: Provides a creamy base without excessive calories.
• 5 1/2 cups milk: This adds creaminess and helps to create the sauce that binds everything together.
• 16 ounces fettuccine pasta, dry: The perfect pasta shape for this creamy sauce, allowing each strand to be coated in flavor.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
• 6 cups spinach: Fresh spinach adds nutritional value and a pop of color to the dish.
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: This cheese adds savory richness, tying the entire dish together.

Making Lightened Spinach Artichoke Chicken Alfredo

Creating the Lightened Spinach Artichoke Chicken Alfredo is a breeze and can be done in just a few steps. The process allows you to enjoy the delightful aroma of garlic and chicken filling your kitchen while you whip up this comforting dish. Let’s walk through the steps to make this delicious meal.

1. Start by rinsing and draining the artichoke hearts. Chop them into small pieces and set aside in a small bowl. This prep work helps the artichokes blend seamlessly into the sauce.

2. Next, mince the garlic. I often enjoy using fresh garlic, as it brings a vibrant flavor that pre-packaged garlic can’t match. Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they cook evenly.

3. In a large pot over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and minced garlic. Sauté until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The aroma alone will have everyone gathering around.

4. Once the chicken is cooked, add the chopped artichoke hearts and cream cheese to the pot. Stir until creamy and well combined, then spoon the mixture into the bowl used for the artichokes. This step ensures every component retains its unique flavor.

5. Pour 5 1/2 cups of milk into the pot and bring it to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to prevent scalding. This is where the magic happens as the milk transforms into a luscious sauce.

6. Once boiling, add another tablespoon of olive oil and the fettuccine pasta. Make sure to bend or break the pasta if necessary to submerge it fully. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to maintain a low boil, stirring occasionally until the pasta is cooked to al dente. You want it just right: tender but still firm.

7. After the noodles are done, add the chicken mixture back into the pot. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of salt and toss in the spinach. Stir and cover until the leaves are mostly wilted, keeping the heat low. This adds a vibrant green color and boosts the nutrition of the dish.

8. Finally, add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until everything is well combined. The cheese will melt, creating a creamy sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. Serve it warm and enjoy the delightful flavors!

Ways to Customize

One of the best things about the Lightened Spinach Artichoke Chicken Alfredo is its versatility. Here are some ways you can customize it to suit your taste and preferences:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to a month. Ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container, and thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Add Proteins: Feel free to add more proteins like shrimp or even some beans for a vegetarian option.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick of heat, or stir in some fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra freshness.
• Change the Pasta: Swap fettuccine for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.
• More Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms to boost the nutritional value.

Accompaniments for Lightened Spinach Artichoke Chicken Alfredo

Serving the Lightened Spinach Artichoke Chicken Alfredo is where the fun begins! Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Pair with Garlic Bread: Serve this dish with a side of warm garlic bread for a classic combination that’s always a hit.
• Salad Side: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta nicely.
• Perfect for Family Gatherings: This dish is perfect for family gatherings, providing a hearty meal that everyone will enjoy.
• Lunch or Dinner: Enjoy it as a satisfying lunch or dinner option, perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
• Seasonal Serving: This dish can be enjoyed year-round but is especially comforting during colder months when you crave something hearty.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Lightened Spinach Artichoke Chicken Alfredo is truly a delightful recipe that combines comfort and health in one delicious dish. With its creamy sauce, vibrant ingredients, and easy preparation, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Lightened Spinach Artichoke Chicken Alfredo

The ultimate comfort food, Lightened Spinach Artichoke Chicken Alfredo is a creamy and satisfying dish that won't weigh you down. Packed with fresh ingredients, this easy weeknight dinner is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Make it tonight for a deliciously lighter take on a classic!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 445 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Large Pot
• Wooden Spoon
• Grater
• Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  

• 14 ounces artichoke hearts jarred
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 pound chicken breast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 ounces cream cheese low fat
• 5.5 cups milk
• 16 ounces fettuccine pasta dry
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 6 cups spinach
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated

Instructions

 

• Start by rinsing and draining the artichoke hearts. Chop them into small pieces and set aside in a small bowl. This prep work helps the artichokes blend seamlessly into the sauce.
• Next, mince the garlic. I often enjoy using fresh garlic, as it brings a vibrant flavor that pre-packaged garlic can’t match. Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they cook evenly.
• In a large pot over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and minced garlic. Sauté until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The aroma alone will have everyone gathering around.
• Once the chicken is cooked, add the chopped artichoke hearts and cream cheese to the pot. Stir until creamy and well combined, then spoon the mixture into the bowl used for the artichokes. This step ensures every component retains its unique flavor.
• Pour 5 1/2 cups of milk into the pot and bring it to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to prevent scalding. This is where the magic happens as the milk transforms into a luscious sauce.
• Once boiling, add another tablespoon of olive oil and the fettuccine pasta. Make sure to bend or break the pasta if necessary to submerge it fully. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to maintain a low boil, stirring occasionally until the pasta is cooked to al dente. You want it just right: tender but still firm.
• After the noodles are done, add the chicken mixture back into the pot. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of salt and toss in the spinach. Stir and cover until the leaves are mostly wilted, keeping the heat low. This adds a vibrant green color and boosts the nutrition of the dish.
• Finally, add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until everything is well combined. The cheese will melt, creating a creamy sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. Serve it warm and enjoy the delightful flavors!

Notes

• Tip 1: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Tip 2: You can freeze this dish for up to a month. Ensure it's in a freezer-safe container, and thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Tip 3: Feel free to add more proteins like shrimp or even some beans for a vegetarian option.
• Tip 4: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick of heat, or stir in some fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra freshness.
• Tip 5: Swap fettuccine for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.
• Tip 6: Incorporate other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms to boost the nutritional value.

Keyword easy alfredo recipe, healthy chicken alfredo, lightened pasta dish, spinach artichoke alfredo

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Meet Bella Banks

I’m the one who makes sure we’re having fun while we work. I love the communal aspect of cooking seven friends in a kitchen can be chaotic, but it’s the best kind of chaos! I cook everything alongside the girls, and I’m often the one setting the table and making sure the “vibe” is right for our photos. I believe that any recipe, no matter how simple or complex, is a celebration.