Name: Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 8 oz whole wheat or gluten-free pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup low-fat milk; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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If you’re craving a creamy, comforting pasta dish but want to keep things light, this Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo is the perfect choice. Packed with flavor and made with lighter ingredients, this dish satisfies your Alfredo cravings without the guilt.

Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo because it combines all the richness of the classic Alfredo but with a fraction of the calories. The creamy sauce is made using Greek yogurt and low-fat milk, which gives it that velvety texture without relying on heavy cream. Plus, whole wheat or gluten-free pasta makes it an even healthier option. It’s a quick and easy weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and nourishing, making it perfect for anyone trying to eat lighter without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

To make Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo, you’ll need:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 oz whole wheat or gluten-free pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup low-fat milk
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (for creaminess)
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, and then slice it thinly.
Cook the Pasta
While the chicken is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the low-fat milk and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in the Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it in the creamy Alfredo sauce. Arrange the sliced chicken on top of the pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 2 servings and takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious meal for a busy weeknight.

Variations

Chicken: Swap the chicken breasts with grilled shrimp or turkey for a leaner protein alternative.
Pasta: You can use zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or gluten-free pasta for a lower-carb version of this dish.
Milk: For a dairy-free option, almond milk or another plant-based milk works just as well.
Greek Yogurt: If you prefer a different texture, low-fat sour cream or light cream cheese can be used in place of the Greek yogurt.
Parmesan Cheese: For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can be used to achieve a cheesy flavor.

Storage/Reheating

This Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also microwave it, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can use any pasta of your choice, whether it’s gluten-free, whole wheat, or even zucchini noodles if you’re looking for a lower-carb option.

2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, by swapping the low-fat milk with almond milk and using a dairy-free alternative like nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese, this dish can easily be made dairy-free.

3. How do I make the sauce creamier?

If you prefer a creamier sauce, you can add an extra tablespoon of Greek yogurt or a splash more of low-fat milk. Alternatively, for a richer flavor, a small amount of light cream cheese can be incorporated.

4. Can I freeze leftovers?

While the dish can be frozen, the texture of the sauce may change when reheated, especially due to the Greek yogurt. If you plan to freeze it, make sure to cool the dish completely before storing it in an airtight container.

5. What can I serve with this dish?

This Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, steamed vegetables, or a slice of whole-grain garlic bread.

Conclusion

Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo is the perfect balance of creamy, comforting, and healthy. With a few simple swaps, it’s just as satisfying as the classic Alfredo but with fewer calories. I love how easily it comes together and how much flavor it packs into every bite. Whether you’re looking to eat lighter or just want a healthier twist on a favorite, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.