High Protein Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo (Print Version)
Enjoy a high protein, skinny chicken broccoli alfredo. This healthier version of a classic comfort food is packed with flavor and nutrients, perfect for a weeknight meal.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: Italian
# Ingredients:
→ The Lean Protein & Verdant Core
01 -
1 and 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 -
1 lb fresh broccoli florets
→ The "Skinny" Creamy Foundation
03 -
1 and 1/2 cups 1% milk
04 -
1/2 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt
05 -
3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
06 -
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
07 -
1 tbsp cornstarch
08 -
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
→ Aromatic Depth & Seasoning
09 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
10 -
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
11 -
1/2 tsp sea salt
12 -
1/4 tsp black pepper
# Instructions:
01 -
Cut 1 and 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. Wash and trim 1 lb fresh broccoli florets, ensuring they are bite-sized. Mince 3 cloves garlic. This initial prep sets the stage for your High Protein Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo.
02 -
Heat 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with 1/4 tsp sea salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
03 -
In the same skillet, add the minced 3 cloves garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the 1 lb fresh broccoli florets and 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth. Cover and steam for 3-5 minutes, until tender-crisp. Remove broccoli and set aside with the chicken.
04 -
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tbsp cornstarch with 1/4 cup of the 1 and 1/2 cups 1% milk until smooth. This slurry will thicken your High Protein Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo sauce without heavy cream.
05 -
Pour the remaining 1 and 1/4 cups 1% milk into the skillet. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir in the cornstarch slurry, 1/2 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, and the remaining 1/4 tsp sea salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens slightly.
06 -
Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Return the cooked chicken and steamed broccoli to the skillet, tossing gently to coat everything evenly in the creamy sauce.
07 -
Serve your High Protein Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo immediately. Garnish with extra Parmesan if desired. This dish is a complete, satisfying meal perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
# Notes:
01 -
For an even leaner option, you can substitute chicken breast with turkey breast. Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms during the broccoli steaming step.
02 -
Leftovers of this High Protein Skinny Chicken Broccoli Alfredo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
03 -
While delicious on its own, this dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or a small portion of whole wheat pasta if you desire extra carbs.
04 -
If your sauce is too thick, add a splash more 1% milk or low-sodium chicken broth until desired consistency is reached. If too thin, simmer gently for a few more minutes.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet
02 -
Whisk
03 -
Cutting board
04 -
Chef's knife
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
06 -
Grater
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 484 kcal
Total Fat: 15 g
Total Carbohydrate: 14 g
Protein: 65 g