Lightened Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo

Name: Lightened Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 ounces fettuccine, or pasta of choice; 3/4 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 inch pieces; 1 teaspoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, divided; 1 1/2 cups broccoli florets; 1 1/2 cups skim milk; 1 (8 ounce) package reduced-fat cream cheese, cut into 1 inch cubes; 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Author: Tessa

Published: September 13, 2025

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Making Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo (lightened up) transforms simple ingredients into something special, proving that comfort food doesn’t have to mean compromising on health or flavor. I’ve always been a huge fan of creamy pasta dishes, but sometimes my waistline (and my energy levels!) begs for a lighter touch. That’s exactly why I dedicated myself to perfecting this version – one that gives you all the rich, satisfying taste you crave from a classic Alfredo, but without the heavy feeling afterward.

I remember my grandma always saying, “Everything in moderation, dear, even moderation!” and she was right. But sometimes, a little culinary ingenuity can help us enjoy our favorites more often. This recipe is a testament to that philosophy. It’s creamy, packed with tender chicken and bright green broccoli, and genuinely guilt-free. Over the years, I’ve had countless requests for healthier takes on beloved dishes, and I’ve poured all my experience into creating delicious, healthier meals like this one for my family and now, for you!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo (lightened up)

This Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo (lightened up) isn’t just another recipe; it’s a weeknight hero! You’ll adore it because it’s:

Quick & Easy: Ready in about 40 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
Incredibly Flavorful: All the rich, creamy taste of classic Alfredo, guaranteed.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: A healthier take on a beloved dish, so you can enjoy it often.
Satisfying: Hearty chicken and fresh broccoli make it a complete meal.

Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo (lightened up) - detail 2

The Joy of a Lightened Up Classic

There’s something truly wonderful about savoring a dish that feels decadent but is actually good for you. This lightened-up Alfredo delivers that exact satisfaction. You get the luscious creaminess and savory depth you expect, but with significantly fewer calories and less fat. It’s proof that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for health!

Essential Ingredients for Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo (lightened up)

Creating this delicious Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo (lightened up) starts with a handful of accessible ingredients. You’ll need 12 ounces of your favorite pasta, like fettuccine, to anchor the dish. For the protein, grab 3/4 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into convenient 1-inch pieces. You’ll also need 1 teaspoon of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt (divided), and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper (divided) for seasoning.

The star of the veggie show is 1 1/2 cups of fresh broccoli florets. For the creamy, lighter sauce, gather 1 1/2 cups of skim milk, one 8-ounce package of reduced-fat cream cheese (cut into 1-inch cubes), 3/4 cup of finely grated Parmesan cheese, and 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor without the heaviness.

Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo (lightened up) - detail 1

Smart Swaps for a Lightened Up Alfredo

The secret to keeping this Alfredo light without sacrificing taste lies in a few clever substitutions. We opt for skim milk instead of heavy cream, which provides a creamy base while drastically cutting down on fat. Reduced-fat cream cheese steps in for full-fat, melting into a luscious, smooth sauce that still feels decadent. If you’re looking to boost the nutritional profile even further, consider whole wheat pasta or even gluten-free alternatives. While vanilla isn’t in this particular recipe, remember for other dishes that alcohol-free vanilla extract is a fantastic choice if you’re avoiding alcohol.

How to Prepare Your Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo (lightened up)

Making this Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo (lightened up) is incredibly straightforward, even for a beginner! The key is to follow the steps in order, and you’ll find that everything comes together beautifully for a satisfying meal. I’ve broken it down into manageable parts so you can cook with confidence, ensuring each component is perfectly prepared before you bring it all together into that creamy, dreamy dish.

You’ll be amazed at how quickly this comes together once you get a rhythm going. Don’t worry about complex techniques; this recipe focuses on simple, effective cooking methods. Pay close attention to timing, especially for the chicken and broccoli, to achieve the best texture and flavor.

Prepping for Your Lightened Up Meal

First things first, get your pasta cooking! Boil your fettuccine according to the package directions until al dente, then drain it well and set it aside. While the pasta is bubbling away, you can season your chicken. Toss the 1-inch chicken pieces with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper. This multi-tasking approach shaves precious minutes off your total cook time!

Crafting the Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Sauce

Now, let’s build those delicious flavors! Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Next, add your broccoli florets to the same skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring, until they’re tender-crisp. Pour in the skim milk and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the reduced-fat cream cheese cubes, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and the remaining salt and pepper. Stir continuously until the cream cheese has completely melted and the sauce is wonderfully smooth and slightly thickened. This is where the magic happens!

Bringing Together Your Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo (lightened up)

With your creamy sauce ready, it’s time to unite all the delicious components. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Add your drained pasta and toss everything together gently until the pasta is fully coated in that luscious Alfredo. Serve your Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo (lightened up) immediately to enjoy it at its absolute best – warm, creamy, and utterly delicious!

Tips for Success with Your Lightened Up Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo

To truly nail this Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo (lightened up), I have a few pro tips up my sleeve. First, for an extra layer of warmth and sophistication in your Alfredo sauce, consider adding a tiny pinch of freshly grated nutmeg – it really elevates the flavor without adding calories. If you find your sauce isn’t quite as thick as you’d like, you can always reduce it a little longer over low heat, or for a quicker fix, whisk a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the simmering sauce until it thickens. When cooking the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan; this ensures it browns nicely and cooks evenly, rather than steaming.

Enhancing Your Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Experience

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your lightened up Alfredo! A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives at the end adds a lovely fresh note. You could also experiment with a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. If you’re looking to add more veggies, consider tossing in some sliced mushrooms or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.

Storing and Reheating Your Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo

If you happen to have any leftovers of this delicious Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo (lightened up), you can easily store them to enjoy later! Simply transfer the cooled pasta into an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, I recommend adding a splash of skim milk or even a little chicken broth to the pan. Heat it gently over low to medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through. This helps to rehydrate the sauce and bring back that creamy texture, preventing it from drying out. Avoid microwaving on high, as it can sometimes make the sauce separate.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo (lightened up)

I get a lot of questions about making this Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo (lightened up), especially regarding prep and variations. Here are some of the most common ones, along with my best advice to help you master this delicious and healthy meal.

Can I make this Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo ahead of time?

While this lightened-up Alfredo is best enjoyed fresh, you can definitely do some prep work in advance! You can cook and shred the chicken, and even chop your broccoli florets, storing them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to a day. I wouldn’t recommend fully cooking the dish ahead of time, as pasta tends to absorb the sauce and can become a bit mushy upon reheating. However, having your components ready makes assembly super fast when you’re ready to eat.

What are some good side dishes for this lightened up Alfredo?

Since this Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo (lightened up) is quite a complete meal on its own, I like to keep the side dishes simple and fresh. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is always a winner – it adds a nice contrast in texture and brightness. If you’re feeling a little extra, a slice of whole-grain garlic bread can be a lovely accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Can I use frozen broccoli in this Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo?

Yes, you absolutely can use frozen broccoli in this recipe! It’s a great time-saver. Just be sure to thaw it first and pat it dry to remove any excess moisture. You might find that frozen broccoli cooks a little faster than fresh, so keep an eye on it. Add it to the skillet after the chicken, cooking until it’s tender-crisp, usually just a few minutes. Don’t overcook it, or it can become too soft.

Estimated Nutritional Information for Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo (lightened up)

I know many of you are curious about the nutritional breakdown of recipes, especially when it comes to a lightened-up version like this Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo (lightened up)! I’ve calculated the estimated nutritional information per serving for you, based on the ingredients and quantities specified. Please remember that these figures are estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients you use, how accurately you measure, and any substitutions you might make. It’s always a good idea to consult a professional nutritionist for personalized dietary advice.

Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
Calories: 550
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 38g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Share Your Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Creation

I absolutely can’t wait to hear how your Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo (lightened up) turns out! Please leave a comment below and let me know your thoughts, or if you made any fun tweaks. Don’t forget to rate the recipe! And if you snap a photo, share it on social media and tag me – I love seeing your culinary masterpieces come to life!