The Ultimate Lightened Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe: Creamy, Healthy & Delicious
Craving a rich, comforting pasta dish without the guilt? This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe is your answer! It’s a truly crave-worthy dinner that masterfully combines succulent chicken, perfectly crisp bacon, tender pasta, and vibrant, fresh broccoli. The secret? A luxuriously creamy Alfredo sauce that’s lightened up, ditching the heavy cream for a healthier twist without compromising on flavor or texture. Prepare for a satisfying meal that will become a new family favorite!
author’s note
This Is How I Get My Kids to Eat Broccoli!
As a busy parent, I’m always on the hunt for dinner ideas that are both comforting and quick, especially on weeknights. And if I can sneak in some healthy veggies that my kids will actually eat without complaint? That’s a win in my book! Creamy pasta dishes are always a hit in my household, but when you add tender broccoli, savory chicken, and a perfectly balanced Alfredo sauce, it elevates to a whole new level. This Broccoli and Chicken Alfredo isn’t just a dinner; it’s a peace offering that everyone in my house agrees on. There are no complaints, no picking around the veggies, and usually, not a single leftover to be found.
I first conjured up this lightened version on a particularly hectic weeknight, utilizing some leftover grilled chicken and a head of broccoli that needed to be used. I simply tossed everything with perfectly cooked pasta and my go-to Alfredo sauce, and to my delight, it was an instant success. Since then, it’s earned its spot as a regular rotation meal. It offers everything you could want in a comfort food: rich creaminess, savory depth, and ultimate satisfaction, all enhanced by just the right amount of aromatic garlic and nutty Parmesan cheese.
What makes this recipe truly special is its ability to deliver all the classic Alfredo flavors while being significantly lighter. This means you can indulge without the heavy feeling that often accompanies traditional Alfredo. It’s a testament to how simple ingredient swaps can transform a dish, making it both delicious and a little bit healthier for the entire family.
Why You’ll Love This Lightened Chicken Broccoli Alfredo
This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a culinary triumph designed for both your taste buds and your busy schedule. Here’s why this Chicken Broccoli Alfredo will quickly become a cherished recipe in your home:
- Healthier Indulgence: We’ve reinvented the classic Alfredo sauce, swapping heavy cream for a clever combination of broth, milk, and Neufchâtel cheese. The result is a sauce that’s equally rich and velvety but significantly lighter on calories and fat.
- Family-Friendly Favorite: Even the pickiest eaters will find it hard to resist this dish. The creamy sauce expertly coats the broccoli, making it more appealing for kids and adults alike. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that minimizes dinner table negotiations.
- Quick & Easy Weeknight Meal: From prep to plate, this recipe is designed for efficiency. With strategic ingredient choices and smart cooking techniques (like cooking pasta and broccoli together!), you can have a wholesome, homemade dinner on the table in about 30 minutes.
- Bursting with Flavor: Juicy, tender chicken, crisp pieces of bacon, bright green broccoli, and a garlicky Parmesan sauce create a symphony of textures and flavors in every bite. It’s savory, aromatic, and deeply satisfying.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer grilled chicken, rotisserie for speed, or pan-seared for extra depth, this recipe is flexible. You can also easily adjust seasonings or add a touch of spice to suit your preference.
- Minimal Cleanup: Our integrated cooking method for pasta and broccoli, and the option to build the sauce in the same pan used for searing chicken, helps reduce the number of dirty dishes, making cleanup a breeze.
Unveiling the Secret to Our Lightened Alfredo Sauce
The heart of any great Alfredo is its sauce, and ours is no exception – except it comes with a lighter, healthier twist! We’ve carefully selected ingredients that mimic the luxurious texture and profound flavor of traditional Alfredo while significantly reducing the fat and calorie content. Here’s a breakdown of the key components that make our lightened Alfredo sauce truly shine:
| Ingredient | Tip or Swap |
|---|---|
| Olive oil & butter | Using both provides a balanced foundation of flavor and richness, ensuring the roux forms beautifully for a smooth sauce. The olive oil helps keep it a touch lighter than butter alone. |
| Fresh minced garlic | This is non-negotiable for the best, most aromatic flavor. Steer clear of jarred or pre-minced garlic, which often lacks the punch and freshness needed for a truly exceptional sauce. |
| Flour | Essential for creating a roux, which acts as the thickening agent for our sauce when cooked with the fat. It helps achieve that perfect creamy consistency without relying on heavy cream. |
| Chicken broth | This is our primary liquid base, directly replacing much of the heavy cream found in traditional recipes. It adds significant savory depth and flavor while lightening the sauce considerably. |
| 1% milk | Continues our mission to keep the sauce light yet creamy. If you desire a richer result, you can certainly opt for 2% milk or even whole milk, though 1% milk delivers excellent results. |
| Seasonings (Italian seasoning, chicken bouillon, salt, pepper, nutmeg) | These are crucial for building complex flavors. Always adjust all seasonings to your taste. A pinch of nutmeg, though optional, adds a classic, subtle warmth to the Alfredo. Chicken bouillon powder is a secret weapon for an extra layer of savory goodness. |
| Neufchâtel cheese | This is a game-changer! It’s a lighter version of cream cheese, offering the same creamy texture and tangy depth but with less fat. It melts seamlessly into the sauce, contributing to its velvety mouthfeel. |
| Fresh Parmesan cheese | For the absolute best flavor, always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese from a block. Pre-grated varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s texture and overall taste. The sharp, salty notes of fresh Parmesan are indispensable. |
The beauty of this sauce lies in its simplicity and the intelligent layering of flavors. By carefully whisking in the flour to create a roux, then gradually adding broth and milk, we build a smooth, luscious base. The Neufchâtel and fresh Parmesan then melt into this base, creating a truly irresistible sauce that you won’t believe is “lightened.”
Choosing Your Chicken: Options for Every Schedule
The chicken is a star in this Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe, providing hearty protein and savory flavor. Depending on your time constraints and meal prep habits, you have three fantastic options for preparing it. Each method ensures juicy, flavorful chicken that perfectly complements the creamy Alfredo sauce:
- Grilled Chicken: The Flavorful Prep-Ahead Option
If you’re an avid griller or enjoy meal prepping, this is an excellent choice. Make extra grilled chicken earlier in the week – perhaps seasoned with a delicious marinade – and save a portion specifically for this dish. Grilling imparts a wonderful smoky char that adds another layer of complexity to the Alfredo. Simply chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces when you’re ready to assemble your pasta.
- Rotisserie Chicken: The Ultimate Time-Saver
For those nights when time is truly of the essence, a store-bought rotisserie chicken is your best friend. It’s pre-cooked, seasoned, and incredibly tender. Simply shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces, and you’re ready to go. This option dramatically cuts down on prep time, making it ideal for the busiest weeknights. You only need about 1½ cups for this recipe, so you might even have leftovers for another meal!
- Pan-Seared Chicken: Fresh Flavor & Sauce Builder
If you have a little extra time and want to build maximum flavor directly into your dish, pan-searing is the way to go. This method not only cooks the chicken beautifully but also creates flavorful “fond” at the bottom of the pan, which then becomes the base for your rich Alfredo sauce.
- Preparation: Start with 1-2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound total). Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear, then cut them into uniform 1-inch pieces.
- Seasoning: Season the chicken generously with salt, black pepper, and your favorite chicken seasoning blend. A garlic herb blend like McCormick Grill Mates Roasted Garlic & Herb works wonderfully.
- Cooking: Heat a large skillet with a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 6–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F).
- Resting: Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and loosely tent it with foil. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and tender.
- Pan for Sauce: Crucially, do NOT wipe out the skillet! The browned bits and leftover juices in the pan are packed with flavor, which will become the delicious foundation for your Alfredo sauce.
Mastering Your Chicken Broccoli Alfredo: Essential Tips for Success
Achieving a restaurant-quality Chicken Broccoli Alfredo at home is easier than you think, especially with these insider tips:
To save dishes, time, and ultimately calories in this recipe, the broccoli is cooked along with the pasta. This brilliant technique ensures both components are perfectly tender without needing an extra pot. Simply add your chopped broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water about 2 minutes before the pasta is expected to be done. They will blanch to a vibrant green and achieve a crisp-tender texture just as your pasta reaches al dente. Drain both together, and you’ve effortlessly streamlined your cooking process!
Quick Tip: Season Your Pasta Water!
This is arguably one of the most important tips for any pasta dish. Don’t forget to season the water with plenty of salt before adding in the pasta and broccoli. Think of it as seasoning the foundation of your dish. If the pasta itself tastes bland, the entire dish will taste under-seasoned, no matter how flavorful your sauce is. As a general rule of thumb, I add 1 teaspoon of salt per 4 cups of water. It makes a significant difference!
Expert Tips For Elevating Your Alfredo:
- Season As You Go: The Layered Flavor Approach
Great dishes are built on layers of flavor. Don’t wait until the end to season. Start by generously salting your pasta water. Season your chicken thoroughly before cooking it. And most importantly, taste your Alfredo sauce as it cooks and adjust as needed. If it tastes a bit flat, a little more salt, a pinch of chicken bouillon powder, or even a dash of garlic powder can bring it to life.
- Optional Additions: Customize to Your Palate
Once your basic Alfredo is perfected, feel free to experiment with these additions:
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end can brighten the entire dish, cutting through the richness and adding a lovely zing.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a pleasant kick.
- Garlic Herb Blend: Beyond the initial minced garlic, another pinch of a good garlic herb blend can deepen the savory notes.
- Loosen the Sauce: Achieving the Perfect Consistency
Alfredo sauce can sometimes thicken more than desired, especially if it sits for a moment. If your sauce becomes too thick to properly coat the noodles, don’t fret! Simply stir in a splash of warm milk or, even better, a bit of the reserved pasta water. The starch in the pasta water helps emulsify the sauce and bring it back to that perfect, glossy consistency without diluting the flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: You want crisp-tender florets, not mushy ones. Adding them just 2 minutes before the pasta is done ensures they retain their vibrant color, nutrients, and a slight bite, offering a delightful textural contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensure your Neufchâtel cheese is at room temperature before adding it to the sauce. This helps it melt smoothly and fully incorporate without clumping, creating a velvety consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Broccoli Alfredo
Here are answers to some common questions about making and enjoying this delicious dish:
Can I prepare Chicken Broccoli Alfredo ahead of time?
While this dish is best enjoyed immediately after preparation for optimal creaminess and texture, you can certainly do some prep work in advance. You can cook the chicken and bacon a day or two ahead of time. You can also chop your broccoli. Store these components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply cook the pasta and sauce, then combine everything for a quick assembly.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store any cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave. Alfredo sauce can thicken significantly when cold, so to restore its creaminess, add a splash of milk or chicken broth while reheating and stir until smooth and warmed through.
What kind of pasta works best for Alfredo?
Fettuccine is the classic choice for Alfredo because its flat, wide strands are perfect for catching and holding the creamy sauce. However, linguine (as used in this recipe), tagliatelle, or even penne and rotini can work wonderfully. Choose a pasta shape that you enjoy and that has enough surface area to cling to the luscious sauce.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets. There’s no need to thaw them first. Simply add the frozen broccoli directly to the boiling pasta water during the last 2-3 minutes of the pasta’s cooking time, just as you would with fresh broccoli. Ensure it’s tender before draining.
Is this recipe genuinely lightened compared to traditional Alfredo?
Absolutely! Traditional Alfredo sauce typically uses heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese, making it quite rich and calorie-dense. Our lightened version significantly reduces the fat and calories by swapping heavy cream for a combination of chicken broth and 1% milk, and by incorporating Neufchâtel cheese (1/3 less fat cream cheese). These smart substitutions allow you to enjoy all the creamy deliciousness without the heavy feeling.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Chicken Broccoli Alfredo
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Lightened Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe
Chelsea Lords
30 minutes
30 minutes
4 servings
Video
Equipment
- Large pot
- Large pan
Ingredients
- 1-1/2 cups cooked chicken (see note 1 for preparation options)
- 2-1/2 cups uncooked broccoli (chopped into bite-sized florets)
- 8 ounces uncooked linguine (approximately half a standard box, or desired pasta type)
- 1-1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 tablespoon freshly minced garlic
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable stock)
- 1-1/2 cups 1% milk (do not use skim; 2% or whole milk for richer sauce)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder (optional, for extra depth)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/16 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, a tiny pinch for classic Alfredo flavor)
- 2 ounces Neufchâtel cheese (1/3 reduced-fat cream cheese, softened at room temperature)
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (divided: 1/2 cup for sauce, 1/4 cup for garnish)
- 6 to 8 slices turkey bacon (or regular bacon, cooked and crumbled)
- 1 lemon (optional, for a squeeze of juice at the end)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
- Red pepper flakes (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken according to your preferred method (see note 1 in the recipe notes below for options: grilled, rotisserie, or pan-seared). Once cooked, chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. While waiting, chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Once the water is boiling, generously salt the water (about 1 teaspoon of salt per 4 cups of water). Add the linguine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Approximately 2 minutes before the pasta is done, add the chopped broccoli to the pot. Cook until both the pasta and broccoli are tender-crisp. Drain both together thoroughly.
- While the pasta is boiling, add the bacon to a large, dry pan or griddle. Cook over medium heat, turning the strips every 2-3 minutes, until the bacon is browned and crispy (approximately 8-10 minutes). Remove the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat. Once cooled, chop the crispy bacon coarsely and set aside.
- Prepare the Alfredo Sauce: If you pan-seared your chicken, use the same pan (do not wipe it clean, the flavorful bits are essential!). If not, use a clean large pan. Heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant (be careful not to burn it). Then, add the flour and whisk briskly for 1 minute until a thick paste (roux) forms and cooks slightly. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking vigorously and continuously until the mixture is completely smooth.
- Continue to whisk constantly as you very slowly add in the 1% milk. Keep whisking until the mixture begins to slightly thicken. Stir in the Italian seasoning, chicken bouillon powder (if using), salt, and pepper. If desired, add a tiny pinch of nutmeg. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the softened Neufchâtel cheese and 1/2 cup of the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the Neufchâtel cheese is completely smooth and the Parmesan is melted into the sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings to your preference. If the sauce feels too rich or heavy, add a small squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten it.
- Add the cooked chicken pieces, drained pasta, cooked broccoli, and chopped crispy bacon to the Alfredo sauce in the pan. Toss gently with tongs until all ingredients are well combined and coated in the creamy sauce. Serve immediately. If desired, garnish with fresh chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra flavor and visual appeal. Enjoy your delicious, lightened Chicken Broccoli Alfredo!
Recipe Notes
- Grilled Chicken: This is a fantastic option if you frequently grill or meal prep. I often grill extra chicken breasts or thighs (marinated or simply seasoned) and save some for dishes like this. It adds a delicious smoky depth. Simply chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Rotisserie Chicken: For the ultimate shortcut, grab a store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s pre-cooked, tender, and seasoned. Shred or chop 1-1/2 cups of the chicken. The remaining chicken can be used for other recipes, like these chicken tinga tacos.
- Pan-Seared Chicken: This method takes a little more active time but adds exceptional flavor directly to your pan, which then becomes the base for your sauce.
- Pat 1–2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound total) dry with paper towels. Cut them into small, uniform 1-inch pieces.
- Sprinkle the chicken pieces generously with salt, pepper, and a chicken seasoning blend (like Mrs. Dash’s® or this McCormick Grill Mates Roasted Garlic & Herb blend).
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and brown them until cooked through, about 6–10 minutes. Chicken juices should run clear, or an instant-read thermometer should register 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and loosely tent with foil to keep it warm and juicy.
- There’s no need to wipe out the pan; the delicious browned bits (fond) left by the chicken will add incredible flavor to your Alfredo sauce! Proceed with making the sauce in the same pan.
Storage Instructions: To enjoy your Chicken Broccoli Alfredo again, store any cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. When reheating, the sauce may thicken; simply add a splash of milk or chicken broth to the pan while warming to restore its creamy consistency.
Nutrition
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Calories: 570 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 58.8g
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Protein: 32.1g
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Fat: 22.9g
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Cholesterol: 83.1mg
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Sodium: 769.8mg
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Fiber: 3.5g
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Sugar: 8.2g
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation. Individual results may vary based on exact ingredients and preparation methods.
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