Indulge guilt-free: learn to make rich and creamy chicken alfredo without heavy cream

Indulge in the velvety richness of chicken alfredo without the guilt of heavy cream. This delectable dish is a symphony of flavors, featuring tender chicken smothered in a creamy, flavorful sauce. With this guide, you’ll discover the secrets to creating this culinary masterpiece in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
• Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

• Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until softened.

3. Create the Sauce:

• Whisk together the Parmesan cheese, chicken broth, and white wine (if using) in a small bowl.
• Gradually add the cornstarch to the mixture, whisking until smooth.

4. Thicken the Sauce:

• Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
• Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens about 5-7 minutes.

5. Add the Chicken:

• Once the sauce has thickened, return the cooked chicken to the skillet.

6. Simmer and Serve:

• Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the chicken is warmed through and the sauce is creamy.
• Serve immediately over your favorite pasta.

Variations

• Creamy Alfredo: For a richer sauce, substitute heavy cream for the chicken broth.
• Spinach Alfredo: Add 1 cup of chopped spinach to the sauce mixture.
• Mushroom Alfredo: Sauté 1 cup of sliced mushrooms with the onion and garlic.
• Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo: Add 1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce.

Tips

• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta.
• If you don’t have white wine, you can substitute it with more chicken broth.
• To make the sauce ahead of time, prepare it up to the point of adding the chicken. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and add the chicken.
• Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

The Science Behind the Creaminess

The secret to achieving a creamy sauce without heavy cream lies in the cornstarch. Cornstarch is a thickener that absorbs water and creates a viscous consistency. When combined with the Parmesan cheese and chicken broth, it forms a rich and flavorful sauce that coats the chicken perfectly.

Healthier Alfredo

This chicken alfredo recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional versions made with heavy cream. By using chicken broth and cornstarch, you can reduce the fat and calories without sacrificing any of the flavor.

Conclusion: Savor the Creamy Delight

With this foolproof recipe, you can now enjoy the delectable flavors of chicken alfredo without the guilt. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting meal, this dish is sure to satisfy. Experiment with different variations and discover your favorite way to enjoy this culinary masterpiece.

FAQs

1. Can I use milk instead of chicken broth?

Yes, you can use milk instead of chicken broth, but the sauce will be thinner and less flavorful.

2. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you find that the sauce is too thin, you can add more cornstarch, 1 teaspoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.

3. What type of pasta goes best with this sauce?

Any type of pasta will work well with this sauce, but fettuccine, penne, and spaghetti are popular choices.