High Protein Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe (Print Version)
Enjoy a lighter, high protein chicken broccoli alfredo. This skinny version packs flavor without the guilt, perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Italian
# Ingredients:
→ The Lean Protein & Verdant Core
01 -
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 -
4 cups broccoli florets
→ The Hearty Foundation
03 -
8 oz whole wheat penne or rotini
→ The "Skinny" Silken Sauce
04 -
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
05 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
06 -
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
07 -
1 1/2 cups 1% milk
08 -
4 oz light cream cheese, softened
09 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
10 -
1 tbsp cornstarch
11 -
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
12 -
1/2 tsp kosher salt
13 -
1/4 tsp black pepper
→ Aromatic Boosters & Finishing Touches
14 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
15 -
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz whole wheat penne or rotini and cook according to package directions. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add 4 cups broccoli florets to the pot. Drain well and set aside, reserving a splash of pasta water if desired.
02 -
While the pasta cooks, cut 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. Heat 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
03 -
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add 4 cloves minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Whisk together 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth and 1 tbsp cornstarch until smooth. Pour into the skillet, then add 1 1/2 cups 1% milk. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
04 -
Add 4 oz light cream cheese, softened, to the simmering sauce, whisking until fully melted and smooth. Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Continue to whisk until the sauce for your High Protein Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo thickens slightly.
05 -
Return the cooked chicken, drained pasta, and broccoli florets to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated. If desired, stir in 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes for a touch of heat in your High Protein Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo.
06 -
Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish generously with 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped. Serve your High Protein Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo immediately for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy this satisfying and healthy meal!
# Notes:
01 -
For an even smoother sauce, ensure your light cream cheese is fully softened before adding it to the skillet. You can also substitute 1% milk with skim or 2% milk.
02 -
Leftovers of this High Protein Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed.
03 -
Feel free to customize your veggies! Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers would also be delicious additions to this dish, added with the broccoli.
04 -
To boost the protein further, consider serving this dish with a side salad topped with extra grilled chicken or chickpeas.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
Cutting board
04 -
Chef's knife
05 -
Whisk
06 -
Measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 543 kcal
Total Fat: 16 g
Total Carbohydrate: 56 g
Protein: 44 g