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Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo Recipe

A creamy, flavorful chicken Alfredo made with low-calorie ingredients for a guilt-free indulgence. Perfectly paired with whole grain pasta and fresh vegetables for a balanced meal.

Ingredients

• 10 ounces pasta any shape
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 medium chicken breasts
• 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
• 1/2 onion
• 6 cloves garlic
• 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

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
   Begin by boiling your pasta of choice in a large pot of well-salted water. Follow the package instructions, but here's a little tip: toss the broccoli florets into the pot during the last minute of the pasta's cooking time. This will save you a dish and ensure the broccoli is perfectly tender. Once done, drain everything and set aside, letting it patiently wait for its creamy companion.

2. Step 2: Sear the Chicken Breasts
   As the pasta bubbles away, grab a large pan and set it over medium heat. Drizzle in the olive oil, adding a shimmer to the pan. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then place them into the pan. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they’re thoroughly cooked and golden. Remove them from the pan, allowing them to cool for a few minutes before slicing or dicing into bite-sized pieces.

3. Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
   Using the same pan, and without rinsing it (let those flavorful bits contribute to the sauce!), add another tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced onion and give it a few minutes to soften up, around 3-5 should do the trick. Then, introduce the minced garlic, sautéing just until its fragrance becomes irresistible and it turns a light golden hue.

4. Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce Base
   Stir in the flour, letting it toast for about 30 seconds, which helps to eliminate that raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the chicken stock and milk, whisking all the while to ensure a smooth blend. As this luscious mixture begins to simmer, whisk in the cream cheese and Parmesan until totally smooth. Season generously with salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste preference.

5. Step 5: Combine and Serve
   Now, bring it all together by adding the cooked pasta and broccoli to the creamy sauce. Toss in the sliced or diced chicken, mixing everything until well combined. For an extra touch, you can serve it with a sprinkle of Parmesan or a dash of parsley on top. Dig in and savor every bite of your homemade low-calorie chicken Alfredo!

Notes

Creating a low-calorie Chicken Alfredo can be a culinary adventure, but a few common pitfalls might make the journey bumpy. One mistake is not seasoning the chicken well enough. Remember, the spices are your chicken's best friends—they'll elevate its flavor to new heights!

Another hiccup is overcooking the pasta or broccoli. A mushy texture isn’t what you’re after. So, keep an eye on the clock and your pasta al dente.

And don’t let that sauce catch you off guard by clumping up. Gradual whisking is key here. Add the liquid slowly and stir like you mean it. Your patience will be rewarded with a silky, smooth sauce.

Lastly, taste often. Adjusting salt and pepper ensures every bite sings. With these tips, your dish will be a masterpiece.