Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo: High Protein Dinner (Print Version)
Enjoy a healthier take on classic Alfredo! This skinny chicken broccoli Alfredo is packed with protein, flavor, and makes a quick, satisfying high-protein dinner.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Italian
# Ingredients:
→ The Lean Protein Powerhouse
01 -
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 -
1 tbsp olive oil
03 -
1/2 tsp garlic powder
04 -
1/2 tsp onion powder
05 -
1/4 tsp black pepper
06 -
Salt to taste
→ Creamy & Dreamy Alfredo Base
07 -
1 tbsp olive oil
08 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
09 -
1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
10 -
1 cup 2% milk
11 -
4 oz light cream cheese, softened
12 -
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
13 -
1 tbsp cornstarch
14 -
2 tbsp cold water (for cornstarch slurry)
15 -
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
16 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Vibrant Veggies & Freshness
17 -
4 cups fresh broccoli florets
18 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Cut 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Toss with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and salt. Cook in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside. This is the lean protein powerhouse for your Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo | High Protein Dinner.
02 -
In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil and sauté 4 cloves minced garlic over medium heat for 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this forms the aromatic base for your creamy sauce.
03 -
Whisk in 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth and 1 cup 2% milk. Add 4 oz softened light cream cheese and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth. Season with 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste.
04 -
In a small bowl, combine 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water to create a slurry. Slowly whisk the slurry into the simmering Alfredo sauce. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency, about 2-3 minutes.
05 -
Stir in 4 cups fresh broccoli florets into the thickened sauce. Cover the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp. This adds vibrant veggies and freshness to your Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo | High Protein Dinner.
06 -
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce and broccoli. Stir gently to combine everything, ensuring the chicken is well coated. Heat through for 1-2 minutes. Garnish with 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley before serving your delicious Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo | High Protein Dinner.
# Notes:
01 -
For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. Feel free to swap broccoli for asparagus or spinach for variety.
02 -
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed.
03 -
This Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is fantastic on its own, but also pairs wonderfully with whole wheat pasta, brown rice, or quinoa for a more complete meal.
04 -
Ensure your cornstarch is mixed thoroughly with cold water before adding to the hot sauce to prevent lumps. Whisk constantly as it thickens.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet or Dutch oven
02 -
Whisk
03 -
Cutting board
04 -
Chef's knife
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 498 kcal
Total Fat: 20 g
Total Carbohydrate: 15 g
Protein: 74 g