One Pot Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo

It’s funny how some of life’s most treasured memories are wrapped around the simple pleasures of food. I still vividly recall the first time I tried Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta. It wasn’t in a fancy restaurant or a gourmet kitchen; it was at home on a rainy evening. My mom had spent the day trying out new recipes, and the rich aroma of garlic, Parmesan, and sizzling chicken wafted through the house like a warm hug.

That evening, as thunder rumbled outside, we gathered around the dining table, and one bite of the creamy, velvety pasta sent me straight into culinary bliss. The blend of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and luscious Alfredo sauce felt like comfort, love, and warmth wrapped into one bite. To this day, whenever I crave something hearty, nostalgic, and soul-soothing, Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta tops the list.

If you’re seeking a dish that offers more than just taste—a meal that tells a story, evokes emotions, and wraps you in cozy satisfaction—you’ve found it right here.

Why This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta Stands Out

What makes this recipe a timeless classic isn’t just its creamy texture or delightful flavors. It’s the perfect marriage of wholesome ingredients and simple techniques that result in a dish that’s both restaurant-quality and wonderfully achievable at home. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your meal rotation:

Balanced Nutritional Goodness

While Alfredo sauce often gets labeled as indulgent, the inclusion of lean chicken breast and broccoli brings a nutritional balance to this dish. Protein-rich chicken provides the essential amino acids your body needs, and broccoli delivers fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants.

Customizable and Versatile

This recipe is versatile, allowing for creative tweaks. Prefer a vegetarian version? Omit the chicken and toss in sautéed mushrooms or spinach. Watching your calorie intake? Swap whole milk for a lighter alternative and reduce the cheese slightly. The framework is flexible, but the outcome is always delicious.

Sure! Here’s the beautifully structured and creative breakdown of your recipe

Star-Studded Ingredients

For the Pasta & Broccoli:

• 8-10 ounces pasta (any shape you love)
• 2 cups broccoli florets

For the Savory Chicken:

• 2 medium chicken breasts (pounded flat or sliced in half)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

For the Luxurious Alfredo Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1/2 onion, minced
• 5-6 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken stock or water
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 oz cream cheese
• 1/2 cup freshly-grated Parmesan cheese

Step-By-Step Magic: How to Whip It Up

1. Perfectly Cook the Pasta & Broccoli:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
3. In the last 2 minutes of the pasta’s cooking time, toss in the broccoli florets.
4. Drain both pasta and broccoli and set aside.

2. Sizzle the Savory Chicken:

1. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked.
4. Remove chicken, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly.

3. Craft the Creamy Alfredo Sauce:

1. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter).
2. Sauté the minced onion over medium heat until translucent (about 2-3 minutes).
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
4. Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously to form a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually whisk in chicken stock (or water) until smooth.
6. Add whole milk and bring to a gentle simmer.
7. Stir in cream cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce thickens.

4. Bring It All Together:

1. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the Alfredo sauce.
2. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Top with sliced chicken.
4. Garnish with extra Parmesan and cracked pepper, if desired.
5. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy goodness!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving Approximation)

What Makes Alfredo Sauce So Special

At the heart of this recipe lies the luxurious Alfredo sauce—a smooth, velvety blanket of flavor. Traditional Alfredo sauce hails from Italy, originally crafted with butter and Parmesan cheese. Over time, especially in American kitchens, cream and milk were added to give it an even creamier consistency.

In this particular recipe, the combination of chicken stock, whole milk, cream cheese, and Parmesan ensures a sauce that’s rich but not overly heavy. The key lies in gently simmering the ingredients and whisking them to perfection. It coats each piece of pasta and broccoli beautifully, without clumping or separating.

Healthier Alternatives & Modifications

If you’re looking to make your Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta a little healthier or diet-friendly, here are a few tried-and-true substitutions:

1. Milk & Cheese: Swap whole milk for unsweetened almond milk or low-fat milk. Use light cream cheese and reduce the amount of Parmesan.
2. Pasta: Opt for whole wheat, chickpea, or lentil pasta to boost fiber and protein content.
3. Chicken Alternatives: Replace chicken with grilled tofu or shrimp for a pescatarian or vegetarian twist.
4. Broccoli: Feel free to mix in other veggies like bell peppers, peas, or asparagus for added nutrients and color.

Storing and Reheating Tips

One of the joys of this dish is how well it stores. To keep it fresh and flavorful:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of milk or chicken stock to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
• Freezing: While pasta and cream sauces typically don’t freeze well due to separation, you can freeze just the cooked chicken and broccoli, and make a fresh batch of sauce when ready to serve.

Pairing Suggestions for the Perfect Meal

Elevate your dining experience by pairing Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta with:

• Crisp Green Salad: A fresh arugula or Caesar salad offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy richness.
• Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is an irresistible companion.
• White Wine: A glass of chilled Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the savory, cheesy flavors beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken saves time and still yields fantastic results. Simply slice or shred the chicken and add it when combining the pasta and sauce.

2. How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit more milk or chicken stock until the desired consistency is reached. To thicken it, let it simmer longer, or add an extra tablespoon of flour while making the roux.

3. Is there a dairy-free version of Alfredo sauce?

Yes! You can substitute the milk and cream cheese with unsweetened plant-based alternatives like almond milk, coconut milk, and dairy-free cream cheese. Nutritional yeast can also be used in place of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.

4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely. Simply use gluten-free pasta and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.

5. How do I prevent the sauce from clumping or separating?

Whisking continuously when adding the flour, and gradually incorporating liquids, helps prevent lumps. Using room temperature milk and cream cheese also ensures smooth integration.

6. Can I prepare Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Prepare all components—cook the chicken, pasta, broccoli, and sauce—and store them separately. When ready to serve, combine and reheat, adding a splash of milk to refresh the sauce’s texture.

A Final Word: A Dish That Feels Like Home

In a world filled with endless culinary trends and fusion dishes, sometimes, the classics truly shine the brightest. Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta isn’t just a meal; it’s a symbol of home, comfort, and the simple joy of sitting down to a lovingly prepared dish.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, entertaining guests, or simply treating yourself after a long day, this recipe delivers every time. Its creamy sauce, hearty protein, and vibrant greens are a reminder that sometimes, the most satisfying meals are the ones that bring you back to life’s little, meaningful moments.

So next time you’re looking for something wholesome and nostalgic, whip up this pasta. Trust me, one bite and you’ll understand why it has stood the test of time.

One Pot Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo

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• Author: Benjamin
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A rich and satisfying one-pan dinner! This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta combines tender chicken breasts, vibrant broccoli florets, and pasta all tossed in a velvety homemade Alfredo sauce. Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s the ultimate comfort food perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Pasta & Broccoli:

• 8–10 ounces pasta (any shape)
• 2 cups broccoli florets

For the Chicken:

• 2 medium chicken breasts, pounded flat or cut in half
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1/2 onion, minced
• 5–6 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken stock or water
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 oz cream cheese
• 1/2 cup freshly-grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

• Cook Pasta & Broccoli:
  Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets. Drain and set aside.

• Prepare Chicken:
  Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet, rest for a few minutes, then slice.

• Make Alfredo Sauce:
  In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter. Add minced onion and sauté until translucent, about 2 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add flour, stirring constantly to form a roux. Gradually whisk in chicken stock until smooth. Stir in milk and bring to a simmer. Add cream cheese and Parmesan, stirring until sauce thickens.

• Combine Everything:
  Add the drained pasta and broccoli into the sauce, tossing to coat well. Top with sliced chicken. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and cracked pepper if desired.

Notes

• Feel free to use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
• Swap chicken with shrimp or tofu for variation.
• Lighten it up with low-fat milk or dairy-free alternatives.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Add a splash of milk when reheating to refresh the sauce’s texture.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stove Top
• Cuisine: American