Creamy chicken alfredo without the heavy guilt: indulge in this lightened recipe!

Chicken alfredo is a classic pasta dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and al dente pasta. While the traditional recipe relies on heavy cream for its richness, this modified version offers a lighter and healthier alternative without sacrificing any of the flavor.

A Lighter, Tastier Alfredo

Our chicken alfredo recipe no heavy cream uses a combination of milk, butter, and Parmesan cheese to create a velvety sauce that is every bit as delicious as the original. The result is a dish that is both satisfying and guilt-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 pound fettuccine pasta

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Season and Flour the Chicken: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge the chicken breasts in the flour mixture.
2. Brown the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides.
3. Sauté the Veggies: Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened.
4. Make the Sauce: Whisk in the milk and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the Butter: Stir in the butter until melted.
6. Return the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts back to the skillet and coat them in the sauce.
7. Cook the Pasta: While the chicken is simmering, cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package directions.
8. Serve: Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss to combine.

Tips for a Perfect Dish:

• Use a good quality Parmesan cheese: The flavor of the sauce will be greatly enhanced by using a high-quality Parmesan cheese.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: The chicken should be cooked through but not dry.
• Adjust the consistency of the sauce: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk. If it’s too thin, simmer for a few more minutes.
• Serve with your favorite toppings: Some popular toppings for chicken alfredo include parsley, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes.

Variations on the Recipe:

• Use different pasta: You can use any type of pasta you like, such as penne, spaghetti, or macaroni.
• Add vegetables: Sauté some chopped broccoli, carrots, or zucchini along with the onion and garlic.
• Use a different cheese: You can substitute the Parmesan cheese with another hard cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella.

FAQs:

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just thaw it completely before cooking.

Q: What if I don’t have any Parmesan cheese?
A: You can substitute the Parmesan cheese with another hard cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella.

Q: What are some healthy side dishes to serve with chicken alfredo?
A: Some healthy side dishes to serve with chicken alfredo include roasted vegetables, a side salad, or garlic bread.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and flour.

The Lighter Way to Alfredo Delight

Our chicken alfredo recipe no heavy cream is a testament to the fact that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for health. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and al dente pasta, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So next time you’re craving a comforting pasta meal, reach for this lighter and healthier version of chicken alfredo.