Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe

If you’re craving comfort food that feels indulgent but won’t weigh you down, this Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe is about to become your new best friend. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, yet crafted with lighter ingredients to keep things guilt-free. Imagine tender grilled chicken nestled atop perfectly cooked fettuccine smothered in a velvety Alfredo sauce that uses milk and chicken broth instead of heavy cream. This is a dish that satisfies those rich flavor cravings while honoring your healthy eating goals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Preparing this Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo couldn’t be easier with a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one is carefully selected to create a balanced, flavorful dish that’s both satisfying and light on fat. From tender chicken breasts to creamy Parmesan cheese, every component plays a key role in making this recipe a standout.

• Chicken breasts (2 to 3 boneless, skinless): The star protein, providing lean, juicy meat that pairs beautifully with creamy sauce.
• Olive oil (for brushing): Adds a subtle richness and helps the chicken develop a lovely golden exterior.
• Garlic salt (1 tsp): Enhances the chicken’s natural flavors with a mild garlicky kick.
• Black pepper (½ tsp + ¼ tsp): Adds a touch of gentle heat and depth to both chicken and sauce.
• Butter (1 tbsp): Provides a rich base for the Alfredo sauce without overwhelming the dish.
• Garlic cloves (1–2, minced): Infuse the sauce with aromatic warmth that’s simply irresistible.
• All-purpose flour (2 tbsp): Helps thicken the sauce so it’s creamy and smooth without heaviness.
• Chicken broth (1 cup): Adds savory flavor and keeps the sauce light and flavorful.
• Milk (1 cup of 1% or 2%): Keeps things creamy but low-fat, replacing heavy cream for a healthier twist.
• Parmesan cheese (¾ cup, grated or shaved): Delivers that classic cheesy, nutty flavor essential in Alfredo sauce.
• Salt (¼ to ½ tsp, to taste): Balances and boosts all the flavors in the sauce perfectly.
• Fettuccine noodles (8 to 9 oz): The perfect pasta base to soak up the luscious sauce.

How to Make Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by brushing your chicken breasts with olive oil, then seasoning them generously with garlic salt and black pepper. This simple prep packs flavor into every bite while helping the chicken brown beautifully during cooking.

Step 2: Grill or Pan-Sear the Chicken

Cook the chicken over medium heat, either on a grill or in a pan, for about 6 to 7 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This method locks in juiciness and creates a slightly smoky, savory crust.

Step 3: Rest and Slice

Once cooked, let the chicken rest a few minutes. This step helps retain moisture and makes slicing easier. Then cut the breasts into strips, ready to crown your pasta dish.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. This step seasons the noodles from within and ensures ideal flavor. Add your fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente—tender but with a slight bite.

Step 5: Drain and Set Aside

Drain your pasta well, giving it a quick shake to remove excess water. Set aside so you can toss it with luscious sauce moments later.

Step 6: Make the Light Alfredo Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and add minced garlic, cooking just 30 seconds until fragrant. Whisk in flour and stir for a minute to create a roux, which will thicken your sauce nicely.

Step 7: Add Broth and Milk

Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, then the milk, stirring constantly. Watch as the sauce thickens into a creamy texture in about 3 to 5 minutes—this is the magic moment where hydration meets richness.

Step 8: Stir in Parmesan and Seasonings

Add your grated Parmesan along with salt and black pepper. Stir continuously until the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce, creating that signature velvety finish.

Step 9: Assemble the Dish

Toss the cooked fettuccine noodles thoroughly with your light Alfredo sauce, ensuring every strand is luxuriously coated. Top generously with the sliced grilled chicken, preparing for the big taste moment.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Plate your Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo immediately for the best flavor and texture. Bonus points for an extra sprinkle of Parmesan or cracked black pepper right before digging in.

How to Serve Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnishes can elevate this dish to restaurant level. Consider a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil to add vibrant color and a fresh herbal note that cuts through the creaminess beautifully.

Side Dishes

Keep sides light and complementary: a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted veggies like asparagus or broccoli are perfect choices. They add texture, color, and a healthy balance to the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the pasta in wide shallow bowls and arrange the chicken strips fan-style across the top. Drizzle extra sauce over and sprinkle with Parmesan shards for a finishing touch that’s as eye-catching as it is tasty.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. This dish keeps well for up to three days while maintaining its creamy texture and flavors.

Freezing

This Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe doesn’t freeze as well due to the sauce’s dairy base, which can separate. For best results, freeze cooked chicken separately, and prepare fresh sauce and pasta when ready to serve.

Reheating

When reheating, gently warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to restore sauce creaminess. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can cause the sauce to become grainy or dry.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more fat and richness but remain delicious. Adjust cooking time slightly as thighs take a little longer to cook through.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, replacing milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk and using a dairy-free cheese substitute can work. Keep in mind the flavor and texture of the sauce may differ slightly.

How can I make the Alfredo sauce thicker?

Cook the roux (butter and flour mixture) a little longer before adding liquids, or let the sauce simmer gently to reduce and thicken naturally.

Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?

Definitely! Swapping regular fettuccine for whole wheat or gluten-free versions is an easy way to customize the dish for dietary preferences without losing flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, if you’re okay with reheating, it works well for meal prep. Just keep sauce and pasta separate if possible for reheating to maintain texture.

Final Thoughts

This Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe is a true game-changer for anyone who loves classic comfort food but wants to keep things light and healthy. It proves that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for better nutrition. Give it a try, and I promise this creamy, cheesy, and wholesome dish will become a staple in your kitchen just like it did in mine!

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