Looking for a delicious yet guilt-free meal that won’t derail your healthy eating goals? Say hello to "Skinny Girl Chicken Broccoli Alfredo"! This delightful twist on a classic comfort dish is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. With tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy whole wheat fettuccine, this recipe is not just a feast for your taste buds but also a quick and easy way to whip up a wholesome meal in just 25 minutes. Ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that’s both satisfying and light? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 8 oz whole wheat fettuccine
- 1 cup low-fat milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by dicing chicken breast into bite-sized pieces, mincing garlic, and cutting broccoli into small florets.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add whole wheat fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While pasta is cooking, heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- Remove cooked chicken from skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour low-fat milk into the skillet and reduce heat to medium-low. Gradually whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Add broccoli florets to the sauce and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Drain cooked pasta and return to pot. Add cooked chicken and Parmesan sauce, gently tossing to combine all ingredients.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prep your ingredients in advance. Dice the chicken and mince the garlic the night before so you can quickly throw everything together when you're ready to cook.
- Cook Pasta Perfectly: Make sure to cook the whole wheat fettuccine al dente to ensure it holds up well when mixed with the sauce. This will give your dish a delightful texture.
- Seasoning is Key: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Seasoning your chicken properly while cooking will enhance the overall flavor of your Alfredo.
- Creaminess Without the Guilt: For an even creamier sauce without adding too many calories, consider using a blend of low-fat milk and a little bit of Greek yogurt instead of all milk.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color. This can also elevate the flavor profile of your dish.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan cheese and a dash of freshly cracked black pepper can make your dish look restaurant-quality. Don’t forget to serve it hot for the best experience!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 95mg
