Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo
Whenever I think about comfort food, I can’t help but gravitate towards a classic dish: Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo. This creamy, dreamy pasta has always held a special place in my heart. I remember the first time I made it for my family; we gathered around the table, laughter echoing in the air, as we dug into the rich flavors and comforting textures. The best part? It was light on calories but heavy on flavor! It’s truly the perfect weeknight dinner that feels indulgent without the guilt.
Recipe Snapshot
40 mins
20 mins
20 mins
Easy
420 kcal
30 g
Gluten-Free
15 g
Large nonstick pan, 12-inch
This recipe stands out for several reasons. Each ingredient plays its part beautifully, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. The chicken is tender and juicy, while the sauce is creamy yet light, thanks to the clever use of reduced-fat ingredients. It’s a dish that adapts to your preferences and can be easily customized with your favorite veggies or spices. Also, it’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings. Let’s dive deeper into why you’ll love making Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo!
Why This Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo Is a Winner
A Guilt-Free Indulgence
One of the primary reasons I adore this dish is its ability to satisfy cravings without weighing you down. The blend of chicken and creamy sauce made with reduced-fat cream cheese means you can enjoy your meal without the guilt.
Simple Ingredients
The best part about Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo is that it requires minimal ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. This simplicity allows for a quick preparation, so you don’t have to stress about complicated recipes or exotic items.
Perfect for Any Season
This dish is incredibly versatile; whether it’s a cozy winter night or a warm summer evening, Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo can be enjoyed year-round. Pair it with a light salad or steamed veggies depending on the season.
Quick and Easy
In our fast-paced lives, we often need meals that can be prepared quickly. This recipe is straightforward and can be on the table in no time, making it a go-to for those hectic weeknights.
Family-Friendly
Getting my family to eat healthy can sometimes feel like a challenge. However, with Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo, I know I can serve them something that not only tastes great but also meets their nutritional needs. It’s a meal that brings everyone to the table!
Shopping List for Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo
When it comes to cooking, I believe that using quality ingredients makes all the difference. For Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo, the combination of fresh chicken, aromatic garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese creates a mouthwatering experience. Let’s explore the key players in this dish.
- ¾ pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show, providing protein and a juicy texture.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.
- Chicken grilling seasoning blend: Adds a depth of flavor that complements the chicken.
- 2½ tablespoons olive oil: Used for cooking and adds healthy fats.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Enhances the richness of the sauce.
- ½ tablespoon minced garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
- ¼ cup flour: Helps thicken the sauce, making it creamy.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Provides moisture and flavor.
- 1 cup 1% milk or 2% milk: Keeps the sauce creamy without being too heavy.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds a classic Italian touch.
- ¼ teaspoon chicken bouillon powder: Intensifies the chicken flavor.
- 4 cups uncooked bowtie pasta: The perfect vehicle for that creamy sauce.
- 2 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese: Creates a luscious sauce without the extra calories.
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds flavor and creaminess.
- 1 lemon (optional): For a touch of brightness if you like.
- Fresh parsley (optional): A lovely garnish that adds color.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For a hint of heat!
Directions for Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo
Cooking Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo is a joyful experience. Each step brings you closer to a delicious meal. Let’s get started!
- Start by drying the chicken breasts with a paper towel. This will help them sear beautifully. Trim any excess fat and cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces. Season all sides with salt, pepper, and your favorite chicken grilling seasoning blend.
- In a 12-inch nonstick pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6 to 10 minutes. The chicken should be no longer pink inside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it loosely with foil.
- In the same pan, do not wipe out the drippings; we will use that flavor. Bring a large pot of water to boil for the pasta. Generously salt the water with about 1 teaspoon salt for every 4 cups of water.
- Add the 4 cups of uncooked bowtie pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package directions for al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.
- In the pan where you cooked the chicken, add 1½ tablespoons of olive oil and the butter. Heat over medium heat. Once melted, add in the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Stir in the flour and whisk briskly until a thick paste forms. Cook for about 1 minute, allowing the flour to lose its raw taste. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth.
- Gradually add in the milk while whisking to keep the sauce smooth. Continue whisking until the mixture slightly thickens, which should take a few minutes.
- Add the Italian seasoning, chicken bouillon powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir in the softened cream cheese and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue to stir until both cheeses are melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Taste the sauce and adjust it as needed. If it feels too heavy, you can brighten it up with a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir everything together. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley and sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top for a little kick. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Things Worth Knowing
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: When cooking the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan as it will steam instead of brown. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Thicken your sauce: If your sauce is too thin, you can add a bit more flour or let it simmer a little longer to reduce.
- Cook pasta al dente: Make sure to cook your bowtie pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook when mixed with the hot sauce.
- Fresh ingredients matter: Using fresh garlic and quality Parmesan cheese will significantly enhance the flavor of your sauce.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Tips for Success
For those wanting to elevate their culinary skills, here are some tips to ensure your Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo turns out perfectly every time.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture of the sauce.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly upon reheating. To freeze, allow it to cool completely and then store in a freezer-safe container.
- Pairing: Serve this dish with a light salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the sauce.
What to Pair With Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo
When serving Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo, there are several delightful options to consider. Let’s explore some tasty pairings!
- Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a perfect accompaniment to balance the creaminess of the pasta.
- Grilled Vegetables: Roasted or grilled vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, add a pop of color and nutrients to your meal.
- Garlic Bread: Serve alongside some warm garlic bread for that comforting touch.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp, light white wine like Pinot Grigio can complement the flavors beautifully.
- Occasions: This dish is perfect for family gatherings, date nights, or even casual dinners with friends.
FAQ
Conclusion
In summary, Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo is a delightful dish that proves you can indulge without the guilt. With its creamy texture and flavorful ingredients, it’s bound to please everyone at the table. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it just might become your new go-to for busy weeknights!
Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo
Equipment
- Large nonstick pan, 12-inch
Ingredients
- ¾ pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts diced
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- 1 chicken grilling seasoning blend see note 1
- 2½ tablespoons olive oil divided
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ tablespoon minced garlic
- ¼ cup flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup 1% milk or 2% milk
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon chicken bouillon powder
- 4 cups uncooked bowtie pasta
- 2 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese or full-fat
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lemon optional
- to taste Fresh parsley optional
- to taste Red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Dry chicken breasts with paper towel. Remove any fat from the chicken and cut into 1-inch pieces. Sprinkle all sides of the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and a chicken seasoning blend.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a 12-inch nonstick pan over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned, about 6–10 minutes. The juices should run clear, and the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Once fully cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it loosely with foil. Do not wipe out the pan; continue by preparing the sauce in the same pan.
- While chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of water to boil. Once water is boiling, generously salt the water with about 1 teaspoon salt to every 4 cups of water. Add in the bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions for al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the pan used to cook the chicken, heat 1-1/2 tablespoons olive oil and the butter. Add in the garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in the flour and briskly whisk until a thick paste forms. Cook for about 1 minute over medium heat. Slowly and gradually pour in the chicken broth, while vigorously whisking. Whisk until completely smooth.
- Slowly add in milk, whisking constantly. Whisk until mixture is slightly thickened. Add Italian seasoning, chicken bouillon, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Add in the softened cream cheese and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Reduce heat to medium low. Stir until cream cheese is smooth and Parmesan is melted. Taste and adjust sauce to preference, adding in any additional seasonings as desired. If the sauce tastes too heavy, add a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Return the chicken to the pan and stir. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little touch of heat. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Tip 1: I like McCormick’s® garlic and herb chicken grilling seasoning blend; any chicken seasoning blend works here. I also like to add a sprinkle of paprika to the chicken.
- Tip 2: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even warming.
