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The Best Chicken Alfredo Recipe: Healthy & Delicious Pasta

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the creamy, indulgent charm of Chicken Alfredo. This classic pasta dish, rich with flavours and textures, typically boasts a decadent sauce made from butter, cream, and cheese. However, if you’re looking for a healthier twist that doesn’t skimp on taste, you’ve come to the right place. This article presents a healthy yet delicious Chicken Alfredo recipe that your family will adore.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cauliflower florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or whole milk for a creamier texture)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

For the Pasta:

• 300g whole wheat fettuccine or your pasta of choice
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Extra Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning on both sides.

2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until thoroughly cooked and no longer pink in the middle. Remove from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the whole wheat fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of the pasta water for later.

Step 3: Make the Cauliflower Alfredo Sauce

1. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet used for the chicken, add a tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

2. Blend the Sauce: Add the cauliflower florets and broth to the skillet, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender. Transfer this mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender to blend until smooth.

3. Combine the Sauce Ingredients: Return the blended mixture to the skillet. Stir in the almond milk and Parmesan cheese, mixing well until creamy. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Mix the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked fettuccine to the Alfredo sauce, tossing until the pasta is evenly coated. If needed, adjust seasoning to taste.

2. Serve: Plate the Chicken Alfredo by adding pasta to each dish and topping it with sliced chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips for a Healthier Chicken Alfredo

• Use Whole Foods: Opt for whole wheat pasta to increase fibre content, making it more filling and nutritious.
• Add Vegetables: Consider tossing in a handful of spinach, peas, or broccoli for added nutrients.
• Control Creaminess: By using cauliflower, you’re reducing calories without sacrificing the creamy texture. It also serves as a great source of vitamins and minerals.

Conclusion

This healthy Chicken Alfredo recipe brings all the beloved flavours of the classic dish while allowing you to indulge guilt-free. With the creamy cauliflower sauce, whole wheat pasta, and succulent chicken, this dish offers a perfect balance of health and taste. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to delight taste buds while keeping nutrition in check. Enjoy your delicious and wholesome Chicken Alfredo!

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