Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo brings all the delicious flavors of traditional Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo while keeping it light on fat and calories. This dish features lean grilled chicken atop a creamy, low-fat alfredo sauce tossed with fettuccine noodles, making it perfect for a family dinner or a cozy date night. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, and it’s sure to impress without any guilt!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: Enjoy the rich taste of alfredo without the heavy calories.
• Quick Preparation: Get this meal on the table in about 30 minutes.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with lean chicken and low-fat dairy options.
• Satisfying Meal: High in protein to keep you full and satisfied.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo, gather the necessary tools to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or Grill Pan
• Large Pot
• Skillet
• Whisk
• Ziploc Bag

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or Grill Pan: Ideal for cooking chicken evenly while adding a lovely charred flavor.
• Large Pot: Necessary for boiling fettuccine to perfection.
• Skillet: Perfect for making the creamy alfredo sauce without burning.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth sauce by removing any lumps as you mix ingredients.

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Ingredients

To prepare your Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo, gather these ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 2 to 3 Chicken Breasts
• Olive Oil
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Pepper

For the Alfredo Sauce

• 1 Tablespoon Butter
• 1 to 2 Garlic Cloves (minced)
• 2 Tablespoons Flour
• 1 cup Chicken Broth
• 1 cup 1% or 2% Milk
• 3/4 cup High-Quality Parmesan Cheese (grated or shaved)
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon Pepper

For the Pasta

• 8 to 9 ounces Fettuccine Noodles

How to Make Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Place chicken in a large Ziploc bag or on a baking sheet. Pierce the chicken all over with a fork. Drizzle with olive oil, garlic salt, and pepper. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes; if time allows, let it sit for up to 4-8 hours.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium heat. Brush it with oil to prevent sticking. Place chicken on the grill and cook for approximately 5 – 6 minutes per side until fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from grill and let rest for about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In a skillet over medium heat, add butter until melted. Stir in minced garlic and let simmer for about a minute. Add flour quickly to form a paste, then gradually stir in chicken broth using a whisk to eliminate lumps.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Stir in milk and allow it to simmer for around 6-8 minutes until thickened. Reduce heat to medium-low and slowly add parmesan cheese while stirring constantly. Season with additional salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Cook Fettuccine

While the sauce is thickening, fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Generously salt boiling water before adding fettuccine noodles. Cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Toss cooked fettuccine with alfredo sauce until well-coated. Slice grilled chicken diagonally and arrange on top of fettuccine alfredo. Enjoy your delicious Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo!

How to Serve Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

When it comes to serving Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo, presentation and pairing can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will complement this delicious dish.

Pair with Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients, balancing the creamy alfredo sauce.
• Sautéed Spinach: A quick sauté with garlic enhances the flavors and adds a healthy green touch.
• Roasted Asparagus: The earthy taste of roasted asparagus pairs beautifully with the fettuccine.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with a light dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with olive oil offer a flavorful side that complements Italian cuisine.
• Garden Salad: Mixed greens with cucumbers, carrots, and a light vinaigrette create a simple yet satisfying accompaniment.

Enhance with Bread Options

• Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter are perfect for dipping into alfredo sauce.
• Whole Wheat Dinner Rolls: These rolls add a wholesome touch and are great for soaking up extra sauce.

How to Perfect Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

Perfecting Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Marinate the Chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate for several hours enhances its flavor and tenderness.
• Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality parmesan cheese makes a significant difference in flavor; opt for freshly grated if possible.
• Control Heat When Cooking Sauce: Keep the heat moderate to prevent burning the garlic and ensure even thickening of the sauce.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Follow package instructions closely for al dente texture; overcooked pasta can become mushy.
• Experiment with Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for a balanced flavor profile.
• Let Sauce Thicken Naturally: If you’re in a hurry, avoid rushing this step; letting it simmer allows flavors to meld better.

Best Side Dishes for Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

To round out your meal of Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo, consider these tasty side dishes that will complement your main course perfectly.

1. Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and garlic, these sprouts make a savory addition that’s easy to prepare.
2. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles provide a low-carb option that adds freshness to your plate.
3. Balsamic Glazed Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots drizzled with balsamic vinegar create a delightful contrast to creamy pasta.
4. Quinoa Salad: A nutty quinoa salad mixed with veggies offers protein and is incredibly filling without being heavy.
5. Cucumber Tomato Salad: This refreshing salad is light and provides hydration while balancing the richness of the fettuccine.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Lightly seasoned corn adds sweetness and crunch that complements any Italian meal beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the marinade – Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always allow the chicken to soak in the seasoning for at least 30 minutes for maximum taste.
• Overcooking the chicken – Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
• Neglecting to whisk sauce properly – Failing to whisk the sauce can result in lumps. Always stir quickly when adding flour and broth to create a smooth consistency.
• Adding cheese too quickly – Dumping all the cheese in at once may cause clumping. Gradually add parmesan and stir after each addition for a creamy texture.
• Not salting the pasta water – Forgetting to salt the boiling water will result in tasteless noodles. Generously season the water before adding fettuccine for enhanced flavor.
• Ignoring sauce thickness – Skipping the simmering step can leave your sauce too runny. Allow it to simmer until it thickens for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to let the dish cool down before sealing.

Freezing Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

• Freeze in individual portions for easy reheating later.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring as much air is removed as possible. It can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until heated evenly.
• Stovetop – Warm over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if necessary to loosen up the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo.

Can I use whole wheat fettuccine?

Yes! Whole wheat fettuccine adds more fiber and nutrients while still being delicious.

What can I substitute for parmesan cheese?

You can use nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative if you prefer a different flavor profile or need a lactose-free option.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Simply substitute regular fettuccine with gluten-free pasta, and ensure that your flour is also gluten-free when making the sauce.

Is Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and is perfect for making ahead of time for quick meals during busy weeks.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms are excellent additions that enhance both flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo delivers all the classic flavors without excess calories. It’s a versatile dish that can easily be customized with your favorite veggies or pasta alternatives. Give it a try, and enjoy a lighter take on this Italian favorite!