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Protein-Packed Light Chicken Alfredo Recipe


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3.9 from 71 reviews

  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This Protein-Packed Chicken Alfredo (Light) recipe offers a creamy, comforting meal with a healthier twist. Using lean chicken breast and a light, high-protein Greek yogurt-based sauce, it delivers classic Alfredo flavor without the heaviness. Whole wheat or chickpea pasta boosts the protein content while keeping the dish satisfying and nutritious, ideal for a wholesome dinner option.


Ingredients

Chicken and Pasta

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced
  • 8 oz whole wheat pasta, protein pasta, or chickpea pasta

Sauce and Seasoning

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (nonfat or low-fat)
  • ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp salt (or to taste)

Optional Add-Ins

  • Steamed broccoli or spinach
  • Red pepper flakes
  • Fresh parsley


Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Boil the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain it well and set aside for later use.
  2. Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken breast, lightly season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 5–6 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Prepare Sauce: Lower the heat to prevent curdling and stir in the plain Greek yogurt and low-sodium chicken broth. Mix gently until smooth and creamy.
  5. Add Parmesan: Stir in the grated parmesan cheese gently until it melts completely, forming a creamy sauce. Avoid boiling the sauce to maintain a smooth texture.
  6. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, add the drained pasta, and toss everything together to evenly coat the pasta and chicken with the sauce.
  7. Heat Through: Warm the combined ingredients on low heat for an additional 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors and heat the pasta and chicken thoroughly.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle with fresh parsley or red pepper flakes, and serve the dish warm for a delicious, high-protein Italian-inspired meal.

Notes

  • Keep the heat low when adding Greek yogurt to prevent the sauce from curdling and maintain a creamy texture.
  • Using protein pasta like chickpea or whole wheat pasta boosts the dish’s overall protein content.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired