High Protein Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe (Print Version)
Enjoy a creamy, high-protein chicken broccoli alfredo without the guilt. This skinny version is packed with flavor, lean chicken, and fresh broccoli for a satisfying meal.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: Italian-American
# Ingredients:
→ The Hearty Core
01 -
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 -
12 oz high-protein pasta (e.g., chickpea or whole wheat fettuccine)
03 -
4 cups fresh broccoli florets
→ The Lightened Alfredo Elixir
04 -
2 tbsp unsalted butter
05 -
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
06 -
2 cups 1% milk
07 -
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
08 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
09 -
1/4 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt
→ Aromatic Depth & Zesty Finish
10 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
11 -
1 tsp Italian seasoning
12 -
1/2 tsp onion powder
13 -
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
14 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
15 -
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz high-protein pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water, then set aside. While pasta cooks, cut 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes.
02 -
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tbsp unsalted butter. Season chicken cubes with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
03 -
While the chicken cooks, steam 4 cups fresh broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 3-5 minutes. You can use a steamer basket over the pasta water or microwave. Set aside. This ensures your High Protein Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo has perfectly cooked vegetables.
04 -
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 4 cloves minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and cook for another minute, creating a roux for your High Protein Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo.
05 -
Gradually whisk in 2 cups 1% milk and 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with 1 tsp Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp onion powder, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional).
06 -
Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 1/4 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. This creates the 'skinny' yet rich Alfredo sauce.
07 -
Return the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, and drained pasta to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss gently to combine everything thoroughly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. Serve your High Protein Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo immediately.
08 -
Garnish each serving with 2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy this satisfying and healthy High Protein Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo!
# Notes:
01 -
For extra veggies, consider adding a handful of fresh spinach or sliced mushrooms when you add the garlic.
02 -
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
03 -
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the very end can brighten all the flavors in this dish.
04 -
To save time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, shredding it and adding it to the sauce at the same time as the pasta and broccoli.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
Whisk
04 -
Cutting board
05 -
Chef's knife
06 -
Measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 788 kcal
Total Fat: 20 g
Total Carbohydrate: 72 g
Protein: 86 g