One Pan Skinny Chicken Alfredo

When I think about comfort food, the first thing that comes to mind is a creamy, indulgent dish that warms my heart and satisfies every craving. That’s exactly what One Pan Skinny Chicken Alfredo delivers! Picture this: a hectic weeknight, the kids are hungry, and you need something quick yet delicious. This dish not only comes together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze, but it also captures the rich flavors of traditional Alfredo without compromising on health. As I sauté the tender bits of chicken and garlic, the aroma fills the kitchen, evoking memories of family dinners and laughter. Whether I’m cooking for my family or entertaining guests, One Pan Skinny Chicken Alfredo is a recipe I can always rely on. It’s creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying, making it the perfect weeknight dinner for anyone who craves a little indulgence without the guilt.

One Pan Skinny Chicken Alfredo Shopping List

Every great dish starts with quality ingredients, and One Pan Skinny Chicken Alfredo is no exception. Each ingredient plays a pivotal role in creating the creamy, savory flavors that define this recipe. From the tender chicken to the rich parmesan cheese, these elements come together to form a delightful meal. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need.

• 6 ounces uncooked farfalle pasta (or any bite-sized shaped pasta – white or wheat): A great choice for holding sauces and delivering that satisfying bite.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: This adds a rich flavor and helps to brown the chicken perfectly.
• 1/2 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, this lean protein is juicy and tender when cooked.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for adding that aromatic, savory depth to the dish.
• 1 3/4 cups slow-sodium chicken broth: This provides the base flavor and helps to cook the pasta.
• 1 3/4 cups fat-free milk: The key to a creamy sauce without the extra calories.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Used to thicken the sauce, giving it that velvety texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: A subtle touch for added flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: This brings a hint of herbaceousness to the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley flakes: Adds a fresh flavor that brightens the dish.
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: The final touch that delivers the signature Alfredo creaminess.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the overall taste.

Recipe Steps for One Pan Skinny Chicken Alfredo

Cooking One Pan Skinny Chicken Alfredo is a delightful experience from start to finish. You’ll love how the kitchen fills with mouth-watering aromas as you bring this dish together. Here’s how to make it:

1. Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1 inch. Season them generously with salt and pepper for flavor.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces. Sauté until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 1 to 2 minutes. You don’t need to cook it all the way through at this stage.
3. Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken. Sauté for about one minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and fat-free milk, followed by the flour, onion powder, dried basil, and dried parsley. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet, ensuring it is well submerged in the liquid. This will help it cook evenly and absorb all the lovely flavors.
6. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to a simmer. This step is crucial as it allows the pasta to cook perfectly while soaking up the delicious sauce.
7. Let the dish simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally, checking the pasta for tenderness. You want it to be cooked through but still firm to the bite.
8. Once the pasta is tender, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce, creating that creamy texture we all love.
9. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. If you feel it needs more flavor, don’t hesitate to adjust according to your preference.
10. Finally, serve the One Pan Skinny Chicken Alfredo hot, alongside some steamed veggies, a fresh green salad, or even crusty breadsticks for a complete meal!

How to Switch It Up

If you’re looking to add some variety to your One Pan Skinny Chicken Alfredo, there are plenty of ways to mix things up! Here are some ideas:

• Add a protein twist: Instead of chicken, try shrimp or tofu for a different flavor profile.
• Include seasonal vegetables: Add broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute the pasta with a gluten-free option and use cornstarch instead of flour.
• Try a different cheese: Swap out the parmesan cheese for pecorino or nutritional yeast for a different twist.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a larger batch and store in individual containers for easy lunches throughout the week.

Best Served With

When it comes to serving One Pan Skinny Chicken Alfredo, the options are endless! Here are some fantastic ideas to elevate your meal:

• Steamed vegetables: Pair your dish with steamed broccoli or asparagus for a vibrant and nutritious addition.
• Green salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette complements the creamy flavors beautifully.
• Garlic breadsticks: Serve with warm, buttery garlic breadsticks for a delightful dipping experience.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad adds a refreshing finish to the meal.
• White rice: For a simple and comforting side, fluffy white rice is an excellent choice.
• Perfect for gatherings: Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together, this dish fits any occasion.

FAQ

Conclusion

One Pan Skinny Chicken Alfredo is a perfect example of how delicious comfort food can be both satisfying and manageable! With its creamy texture and delightful flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s quick to prepare and perfect for sharing with loved ones. You’ll love how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen!

One Pan Skinny Chicken Alfredo

The ultimate comfort food, One Pan Skinny Chicken Alfredo is creamy, cheesy, and incredibly easy to make. This quick weeknight dinner is perfect for busy families and promises to satisfy everyone at the table. Make it tonight for a delicious, guilt-free meal!

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 400

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 6 ounces Farfalle pasta or any bite-sized shaped pasta (white or wheat)
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1/2 pound Boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 3/4 cups Slow-sodium chicken broth
• 1 3/4 cups Fat-free milk
• 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon Onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon Dried parsley flakes
• 1 cup Freshly grated parmesan cheese
• to taste Salt
• to taste Freshly ground black pepper

Equipment

• Grater
• Large Pot
• Wooden Spoon
• Saucepan
• Frying Pan
• Skillet

Method

 

1. Cut chicken breasts into bite-size pieces, about 1 inch, and season with salt and pepper. Add olive oil to a skillet over medium high heat.
2. Add chicken to the hot skillet and brown on all sides for 1-2 minutes (you don’t need to cook it all the way through).
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for one minute.
4. Add chicken broth, milk, flour, onion powder, basil, parsley, and uncooked pasta to pan and stir well to combine.
5. Bring to a gentle boil, then cover and reduce heat to a simmer.
6. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until pasta is tender, stirring once or twice during this time.
7. Remove from heat and stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese.
8. Season with salt and pepper, if needed.
9. Serve with veggies, green salad, breadsticks, or fruit.

Notes

• Dairy Free: Replace milk with a dairy free alternative, like soy, or almond milk.
• Gluten Free: Use 1 tablespoon cornstarch in place of the flour. Substitute gluten-free pasta.
• Vegetarian: Omit chicken (add veggies if desired) and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Extra Veggies: Add broccoli florets or your favorite type of veggies! Throw them in during the last few minutes of cooking.

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Meet Zara Knight

I founded Zest Home Recipes because I believe home cooking should never be boring. My mission is to wake up your palate with recipes that are vibrant, easy, and full of life. I personally cook, photograph, and approve every dish on this site to ensure it brings a spark of joy and a burst of flavor to your kitchen table.