There is something truly comforting and satisfying about a classic Alfredo pasta, but with this Healthy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli Recipe, you get all that creamy goodness without the heavy guilt. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant green broccoli, and a luscious yet light sauce, this dish is as wholesome as it is delicious. It effortlessly transforms simple ingredients into a meal that feels indulgent but fuels your body with nutrition. Whether you’re cooking for your family or treating yourself after a busy day, this recipe is a winner that you’ll want to return to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Healthy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli Recipe are refreshingly straightforward, yet each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the protein-rich chicken to the fresh broccoli florets, and the creamy Parmesan sauce, everything comes together in harmony.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Sliced into strips for quick, even cooking and tenderness.
- 8 ounces fettuccine or whole wheat pasta: Whole wheat adds extra fiber and a nutty flavor that complements the sauce.
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets: Adds a beautiful pop of green and a fresh crunch.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing chicken to a golden perfection without excess fat.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth and a savory kick.
- 1 tablespoon flour: The secret base for thickening the sauce into a silky consistency.
- 1 ½ cups low-fat milk: Keeps the Alfredo creamy while keeping it light.
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth: Adds flavor complexity and helps balance the creaminess.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers that classic cheesy richness essential to Alfredo.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors without overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth.
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional): Adds a subtle, nutty undertone to round out the sauce.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): A fresh, colorful finishing touch.
How to Make Healthy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, but here’s a great trick – toss your broccoli florets into the boiling pasta water during the last few minutes of cooking. This way, your broccoli will maintain its vibrant color and stay perfectly tender. Once done, drain both pasta and broccoli together and set them aside for the next stage.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
While the pasta and broccoli cook, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your sliced chicken strips and cook them until they turn beautifully golden and are cooked through, about five to six minutes. This searing locks in the juices and flavor. After the chicken is ready, remove it from the pan and keep it warm.
Step 3: Prepare the Light Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for just half a minute to unlock its fragrance without burning. Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and whisk continuously for a minute to cook out the raw flour taste and build your roux. Now it’s time to slowly whisk in the low-fat milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly. Let this mixture simmer gently for three to four minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and has a velvety texture.
Step 4: Finish the Sauce and Combine
Stir Parmesan cheese into the sauce until melted and smooth, then season with salt, pepper, and, if you like, a pinch of nutmeg for that subtle warmth. Return the chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet, tossing them gently to coat everything evenly in the creamy sauce. Let it all warm together for another couple of minutes to marry the flavors beautifully.
How to Serve Healthy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a refreshing color contrast but also a slight herbaceous note that brightens every bite. You might also add an extra handful of grated Parmesan on top for guests who adore that cheesy finish.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty on its own, but pairing it with a light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette adds a peppery, citrusy balance. Garlic bread or a crusty whole-grain loaf can be perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce if you want a more indulgent side.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this Healthy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli Recipe in modern shallow bowls to showcase the colorful broccoli and chicken strips elegantly. For a family-style meal, a large serving platter garnished generously with parsley invites everyone to dig in and share the comfort.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers should be cooled to room temperature before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days and keep their creamy texture and balanced flavors beautifully.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if portioned into freezer-safe containers. To maintain the best texture, avoid freezing it for more than one month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the portions overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce thickens too much. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring each time to heat evenly without drying out the chicken or broccoli.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional, you can swap in other pasta shapes like penne, linguine, or even whole wheat or gluten-free options. Just adjust cooking times according to the package instructions.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the Parmesan cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast, and use a plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk to keep the sauce creamy yet dairy-free.
Can I add other vegetables besides broccoli?
Definitely! Spinach, peas, or asparagus make excellent additions to this dish. Simply add them during the last few minutes of pasta cooking or sauté separately before mixing in.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker Alfredo sauce, add a little more flour when making the roux or allow the sauce to simmer for a few extra minutes while stirring continuously.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this Healthy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli Recipe is perfect for meal prep. It stores well and reheats beautifully, making it a convenient, delicious option for busy weekdays.
Final Thoughts
This Healthy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli Recipe is a delightful celebration of comfort and nutrition in one dish. With its rich flavors, vibrant colors, and wholesome ingredients, it’s a meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day. I truly hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe as much as I do—here’s to many happy dinners ahead!
Print
Healthy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American-Italian
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
This Healthy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli recipe offers a lighter, nutritious twist on a classic creamy pasta dish. Tender grilled chicken breasts, fresh broccoli florets, and fettuccine pasta are tossed in a homemade low-fat Alfredo sauce made with garlic, low-fat milk, low-sodium chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and flavorful.
Ingredients
Protein and Pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 8 ounces fettuccine or whole wheat pasta
Vegetables
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
For the Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 ½ cups low-fat milk
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Garnish
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions. Add the broccoli florets in the last 2–3 minutes of cooking. Drain pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts and cook for 5–6 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to form a roux.
- Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the low-fat milk and low-sodium chicken broth. Continue stirring and simmer the mixture for 3–4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Finish Sauce: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Combine and Heat Through: Return the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat well in the Alfredo sauce. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences.
- Substitute broccoli with spinach or peas if preferred or unavailable.
- For extra creaminess without added fat, stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt before serving.
