Description
This Skinny Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo is a lighter take on a creamy favorite, blending tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a velvety sauce made without heavy cream. With rich garlic-Parmesan flavor and a wholesome twist, this one-pan meal satisfies without the guilt.
Ingredients
For the pasta and broccoli:
8 to 10 ounces pasta of choice
2 cups broccoli florets
For the chicken:
2 medium chicken breasts, halved or pounded thin
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
For the light Alfredo sauce:
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
½ onion, minced
5 to 6 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup chicken stock or water
1 cup whole milk
2 ounces cream cheese
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
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Cook the pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Add the broccoli florets during the last minute of cooking. Drain and set aside.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear for 5–6 minutes per side or until fully cooked. Transfer to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes, then slice or dice.
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In the same skillet, heat olive oil or butter and sauté the minced onion for 3–5 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking continuously.
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Gradually whisk in chicken stock and milk until smooth. Simmer for a few minutes, then stir in cream cheese and Parmesan. Continue stirring until the sauce is creamy and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add the chicken back in or serve it on top. Garnish with more Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Use whole wheat or protein pasta for a healthier base.
Swap in cauliflower or spinach for the broccoli to mix things up.
Cream cheese makes the sauce creamy without using heavy cream.
Great for meal prep—store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American