If you’ve been craving a creamy, comforting pasta dish that won’t weigh you down, you’re going to absolutely love this Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe. It’s a lighter twist on the classic Alfredo, swapping heavy cream for low-fat milk and chicken broth to create a velvety sauce that hugs tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is so flavorful and satisfying that you’ll forget it’s actually good for you. Whether you’re looking for a weekday dinner crowd-pleaser or a healthier indulgence, this dish brings together simplicity, nutrition, and rich taste in one bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is like assembling a dream team—each one plays an essential role in creating this vibrant and tasty Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe. From the bright green broccoli adding color and crunch to the sharp Parmesan bringing that unmistakable cheesy punch, these simple components combine to create a dish that feels indulgent without the guilt.
- Broccoli florets (2 cups): Fresh or frozen, they add nutrient-packed crispness and vibrant color.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts (1 pound, cubed): The lean protein that keeps this dish satisfying and healthy.
- Fettuccine or pasta of choice (8 oz): Fettuccine is classic, but feel free to swap in whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
- Low-fat milk (1 cup): The lighter liquid base that makes the sauce creamy without the heaviness of cream.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): This acts as a thickening agent to give the sauce that luscious consistency.
- Chicken broth (1 cup): Adds depth and savory richness to the sauce flavor.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): The star ingredient for cheesy, nutty goodness that melts into the sauce.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Perfect for cooking the chicken to golden perfection without extra fat.
- Garlic cloves (2-3 minced): Fresh garlic delivers warmth and aroma that elevates every bite.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Simple seasonings that bring everything together.
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional): Adds a subtle, cozy spice that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
How to Make Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe
Step 1: Cook Your Pasta
Start by boiling your pasta according to the package directions until perfectly al dente. The key here is not to overcook—you want that slight bite to hold up when tossed in the creamy sauce. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside so it’s ready to soak up all the delicious flavors later.
Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
While pasta is cooking, lightly steam or boil your broccoli florets just until they turn bright green and are tender when pierced with a fork. This method keeps their crunch and vibrant color intact, which really brightens this Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe visually and texturally.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the cubed chicken breasts. Cook them until golden brown and thoroughly cooked inside. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper here—that initial seasoning makes all the difference. Once cooked, remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Light Alfredo Sauce
In a separate saucepan, sauté the minced garlic in a little olive oil until fragrant—this is where the sauce begins to come alive. Whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking it briefly to remove the raw flavor. Gradually pour in the low-fat milk and chicken broth while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Simmer over medium heat until the sauce thickens to a silky, creamy texture.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasonings
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and luxurious. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of nutmeg to give your Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe a little warm spice nuance that pairs perfectly with the cheesy sauce.
Step 6: Combine Everything Together
In a large bowl or directly in the pasta pot, toss the cooked pasta with the chicken, broccoli, and Alfredo sauce. Mix well so every bite is generously coated with the creamy sauce and studded with tender morsels of chicken and vibrant broccoli.
Step 7: Serve Immediately
For best results, serve your Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe piping hot. If you like, sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese on top to add an inviting, cheesy finish.
How to Serve Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil add a pop of color and fresh flavor to contrast the creamy sauce wonderfully. A wedge of lemon on the side can also brighten the dish with a hit of citrus. For chilli lovers, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes is a fantastic way to add some gentle heat.
Side Dishes
This dish shines as a standalone meal thanks to its balance of protein, veggies, and carbs. However, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or some crusty whole-grain bread makes wonderful complementary sides. Roasted garlic asparagus or a tangy coleslaw can also add a lovely textural contrast on the table.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to dress it up for company or family dinner? Serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls, garnished with finely grated Parmesan and a small sprig of rosemary or thyme. You can also nestle the chicken and broccoli pieces artfully on top to showcase the colors and make it look restaurant-worthy. For a fun twist, try serving the sauce on the side so guests can control how much creamy goodness they add.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (although this is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish will keep well for up to three days, though the pasta tends to absorb the sauce and get a bit softer over time.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is possible but not ideal for maintaining the best texture. The sauce may separate slightly when thawed. If you do freeze it, cool completely before storing in a freezer-safe container and consume within 2 months for best flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or chicken broth while reheating to bring back some of the sauce’s creaminess. Stir frequently and heat until warmed through but avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is classic for Alfredo, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, like penne, linguine, or even a gluten-free option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is the sauce dairy-free or can it be made that way?
This version uses low-fat milk and Parmesan, so it’s not dairy-free. However, you can experiment with dairy-free milk like unsweetened almond or oat milk and vegan Parmesan cheese alternatives, keeping in mind the flavor and texture might vary slightly.
What can I substitute for chicken if I want a vegetarian version?
Great question! You can swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms or tofu cubes. Roasted cauliflower or chickpeas also make excellent protein-packed substitutes that pair nicely with the sauce and broccoli.
Is nutmeg really necessary in the sauce?
No, the pinch of nutmeg is optional but highly recommended! It adds a subtle warmth that deepens the flavor of the Alfredo sauce without being overpowering. Feel free to leave it out if you’re not a fan.
Can I prepare parts of this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the pasta and broccoli earlier and refrigerate them separately. The chicken can also be cooked ahead and warmed before combining with the sauce when ready to serve, making dinner almost effortless on busy nights.
Final Thoughts
This Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe is exactly the kind of dish that brings comfort and health together in perfect harmony. It’s creamy, flavorful, and satisfying without any heaviness dragging you down afterward. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how easily it fits into your weeknight routine or weekend gatherings. Trust me, once you make it, this recipe will become one of your go-to meals that feels like a treat every single time.
Print
Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A healthy twist on the classic creamy Alfredo pasta, this Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo features tender chicken breast, nutritious broccoli florets, and a light homemade Alfredo sauce made with low-fat milk, Parmesan cheese, and chicken broth. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2–3 minced garlic cloves
Protein
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
Pasta
- 8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
Sauce
- 1 cup low-fat milk
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional for added flavor)
Other
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the chicken)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook the fettuccine or pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside for later.
- Cook the broccoli: Steam or boil the broccoli florets until they become tender but still crisp. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the Alfredo sauce: In a saucepan, sauté the minced garlic over medium heat until fragrant. Whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a roux. Gradually pour in the low-fat milk and chicken broth while continuously whisking to avoid lumps. Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken on medium heat.
- Add cheese and seasoning: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Add a pinch of nutmeg if desired for extra flavor, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Combine everything: Add the cooked chicken and broccoli to the sauce, then fold in the cooked pasta. Stir gently to coat all ingredients evenly with the Alfredo sauce.
- Serve: Plate the pasta immediately and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use low-fat milk to keep the sauce lighter but still creamy.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts best for a smooth sauce.
- You can substitute fettuccine with any other pasta shape you prefer.
- Steaming broccoli helps preserve nutrients and texture better than boiling.
- A pinch of nutmeg enhances the flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
- For added flavor, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently.
