Skinny Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe: A Lightened-Up Classic

Fettuccine Alfredo is the ultimate comfort food, but its rich, creamy goodness often comes with a hefty calorie count. That’s where this Skinny Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe comes in—a lighter, healthier twist on the classic dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Imagine tender fettuccine coated in a velvety sauce made with whole milk and parmesan cheese, topped with juicy garlic chicken. It’s satisfying, wholesome, and easy enough to make on a busy weeknight. Best of all, you can enjoy this indulgent meal guilt-free!

Why You’ll Love This Skinny Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe

• Healthier Ingredients: Replaces heavy cream with whole milk for a lighter sauce.
• Packed with Flavor: Garlic, parmesan, and paprika add depth without extra calories.
• Easy and Quick: Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy meal for guests.
• Customizable: Add veggies like spinach or broccoli to make it your own.

Ingredients for Skinny Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe

Here’s a detailed list of everything you’ll need to recreate this dish:

For the Fettuccine Pasta

Ingredient	Quantity
Fettuccine pasta	1 lb

For the Garlic Chicken

Ingredient	Quantity
Chicken breasts	2 large (about 1 ½ lbs)
Cooking oil	As needed
Salt	To taste
Chicken broth	½ cup
Butter	1–2 tablespoons
Garlic, minced	4–5 cloves
Paprika (regular or smoked)	1 ½ teaspoons
Ground black pepper	To taste
Fresh parsley, chopped	1 tablespoon

For the Skinny Alfredo Sauce

Ingredient	Quantity
Salted butter	2 tablespoons
Garlic, minced	3–4 cloves
All-purpose flour	2 tablespoons (or 3 for thicker sauce)
Chicken broth	1 cup
Whole milk	2 cups
Salt	1 teaspoon
Ground black pepper	½ teaspoon
Ground nutmeg	¼ teaspoon
Parmesan cheese, grated	1 ½ cups
Fresh parsley, chopped	2–3 tablespoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Fettuccine Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
• Drain the pasta, leaving a little pasta water in the pot to keep it warm.

2. Prepare the Garlic Chicken

Butterfly the Chicken

• Lay each chicken breast flat on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut the chicken horizontally into two equal pieces.

Cook the Chicken

• Preheat a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add cooking oil and heat until shimmering.
• Season the chicken generously with salt and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.

Add Broth and Garlic Butter

• Reduce the heat to medium, add ½ cup chicken broth, and cover the pan with a lid to cook the chicken faster.
• Once the chicken is almost done, add butter, minced garlic, paprika, and black pepper. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Sprinkle with fresh parsley, remove from heat, and keep warm.

3. Make the Skinny Alfredo Sauce

Create the Roux

• Melt butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
• Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.

Add Liquids and Seasonings

• Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
• Slowly add the whole milk, continuing to whisk. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.

Thicken the Sauce

• Cook the sauce over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until it thickens slightly. Add grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Stir until the cheese melts completely.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce

• Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet with the sauce. Use tongs to toss the pasta until it’s evenly coated.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Slice the Chicken

• Thinly slice the prepared garlic chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Plate the Dish

• Either mix the chicken into the pasta or plate the chicken on top of each serving.
• Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and parsley for a finishing touch.

Tips for Making the Best Skinny Alfredo

• Don’t Skip the Nutmeg: It adds a subtle warmth that enhances the sauce.
• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This ensures the fettuccine holds up well in the sauce.
• Thin the Sauce if Needed: Add a splash of milk or pasta water to adjust the consistency.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	480
Protein	38g
Carbohydrates	42g
Fat	18g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	720mg

FAQs About Skinny Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time, but cook the pasta fresh. Reheat the sauce on the stove, adding a splash of milk to maintain its creaminess.

2. Can I substitute whole milk?

You can use 2% milk for an even lighter version, but avoid skim milk as it won’t yield the same creamy texture.

3. What can I add to this recipe for extra flavor?

Try adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to complement the flavors.

4. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.

5. Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and replace the flour in the sauce with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

6. What other proteins can I use?

Grilled shrimp or seared salmon make excellent alternatives to chicken in this recipe.

Why This Skinny Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Will Be Your New Favorite

This recipe combines the creamy decadence of classic Alfredo with lighter ingredients, making it a meal you can enjoy anytime without feeling weighed down. It’s simple to prepare, endlessly customizable, and perfect for sharing with family or friends.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and create this wholesome, delicious dish tonight!

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