Healthy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli Recipe

Introduction

Enjoy a lighter version of a classic favorite with this Healthy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli. This dish combines tender chicken and vibrant broccoli with a creamy, guilt-free Alfredo sauce, making it a satisfying yet nutritious meal perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Broccoli:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced thinly
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

For the Healthy Alfredo Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or skim milk)
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 8 oz whole wheat fettuccine (or any pasta of your choice)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the whole wheat fettuccine according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken and Broccoli:
   Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside.In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until tender but still bright green. You can also steam the broccoli if preferred. Set aside with the chicken.
3. Make the Healthy Alfredo Sauce:
   In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.Whisk in the almond milk (or skim milk) and chicken broth. In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with 1-2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry, then stir it into the skillet to help thicken the sauce.Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook for 2-3 minutes until it starts to thicken. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Greek yogurt, and ground nutmeg (if using). Continue to stir until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Broccoli:
   Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and broccoli to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything together to coat evenly in the sauce.
5. Serve:
   Serve your Healthy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with extra vegetables or tofu.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the sauce ingredients are gluten-free.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for extra heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?
   Yes, you can use regular milk or any other milk alternative.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat before serving.
3. How do I make this recipe vegan?
   Use a plant-based milk, substitute the Greek yogurt with more almond milk, and omit the chicken or replace it with tofu.
4. Can I use a different pasta?
   Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta you prefer.
5. What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
   You can use sour cream or extra almond milk if Greek yogurt is not available.
6. How do I make the sauce thicker?
   If the sauce isn’t thick enough, mix a bit more cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce.
7. Can I freeze this dish?
   While it can be frozen, the texture of the pasta and sauce may change. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
8. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
   The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) and the meat should be no longer pink inside.
9. Can I add more vegetables?
   Yes, you can include vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
10. What’s a good side dish to serve with this?
    A simple green salad or steamed vegetables complement the dish well.

Conclusion

This Healthy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli offers a lighter take on the traditional Alfredo while still delivering creamy, satisfying flavors. With its colorful vegetables and nutrient-rich ingredients, it’s a great option for a wholesome family meal. Enjoy this delicious, guilt-free comfort food that’s perfect for any day of the week!

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