Name: One-Pan Skinny Chicken Alfredo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 6 ounces uncooked farfalle pasta (or any bite-sized shape pasta); 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing); 1/2 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (diced into bite-sized pieces); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 3/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (for a flavorful base); 1 3/4 cups fat-free milk (to keep it light); 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening the sauce); 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (to enhance flavor); 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (for an herby note); 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley flakes (for garnish and flavor); 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (for that creamy, cheesy goodness); Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

If you’re on the hunt for a creamy, dreamy dish that’s both satisfying and light, look no further than this One-Pan Skinny Chicken Alfredo. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe brings together tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, flavorful sauce—all made in a single pan! The best part? It’s a healthier version of the classic dish without sacrificing depth of flavor. Let’s dive into the scrumptious details of this easy and delicious recipe!

Top Reasons to Make One-Pan Skinny Chicken Alfredo

There are countless reasons to whip up this One-Pan Skinny Chicken Alfredo. Here are just a few:

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
Minimal Cleanup: Cook everything in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
Customizable: Adjust ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs.
Flavor-Packed: Despite being a lighter version, it’s rich in flavor thanks to the blend of spices and freshly grated parmesan.
Family-Friendly: A dish that both kids and adults will love!

Ingredient Rundown

To create this delicious One-Pan Skinny Chicken Alfredo, you’ll need the following ingredients:

6 ounces uncooked farfalle pasta or any bite-sized shape pasta (white or wheat)
2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
1/2 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
2 cloves garlic, minced for that aromatic punch
1 3/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth for a flavorful base
1 3/4 cups fat-free milk to keep it light
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour for thickening the sauce
1/2 teaspoon onion powder to enhance flavor
1/2 teaspoon dried basil for an herby note
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley flakes for garnish and flavor
1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese for that creamy, cheesy goodness
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Essential Tools for Success

Before you start cooking, gather these essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly:

Large skillet: A sturdy skillet will help you cook everything evenly.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and ensuring nothing sticks.
Measuring cups and spoons: For precision in your ingredients.
Sharp knife: To easily dice chicken and mince garlic.
Grater: For freshly grating parmesan, which makes a big difference in flavor.

Make One-Pan Skinny Chicken Alfredo: A Simple Method

Now that we have everything ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your One-Pan Skinny Chicken Alfredo.

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breasts and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Garlic

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring to a simmer. In a separate bowl, whisk together the fat-free milk and all-purpose flour until smooth. Gradually add this mixture to the skillet, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.

Step 4: Add the Pasta

Once the sauce is bubbling gently, add the farfalle pasta. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Stir in Seasonings and Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, lower the heat and add the onion powder, dried basil, and parsley flakes. Stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Add the sautéed chicken back into the skillet and mix until everything is well combined.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

Taste your One-Pan Skinny Chicken Alfredo and adjust the seasoning with more salt and freshly ground black pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve hot, garnishing with additional parsley or parmesan if desired. Enjoy your creamy, delicious, and guilt-free meal!

Customize for Your Needs

One of the best aspects of this One-Pan Skinny Chicken Alfredo is its versatility. Consider these options to make it your own:

Add veggies: Toss in some spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Use different proteins: Swap chicken for shrimp or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.
Alter the pasta: Try whole wheat, gluten-free, or vegetable-based pasta for different dietary needs.
Experiment with cheeses: Mix in mozzarella or nutritional yeast for a different flavor profile.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

Even seasoned cooks can stumble when making this dish. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Not salting the water: When cooking the pasta, always salt the water to enhance the flavor.
Overcooking the chicken: Ensure the chicken is cooked just right to avoid dryness.
Skipping the fresh cheese: Pre-grated cheese can lack flavor and creaminess compared to freshly grated.
Not stirring enough: Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Save It for Later

If you find yourself with leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat your One-Pan Skinny Chicken Alfredo:

You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce, as it may thicken in the fridge. Gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to ensure even heating.

Common Qs About One-Pan Skinny Chicken Alfredo

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any bite-sized pasta shape you enjoy, such as penne, rotini, or even gluten-free options.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish is great for meal prep. Just store it in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely! Replace the chicken with your favorite plant-based protein and vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

What can I serve with One-Pan Skinny Chicken Alfredo?

Pair it with a light salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. For a refreshing touch, consider a side of steamed vegetables.

After enjoying your One-Pan Skinny Chicken Alfredo, why not satisfy your sweet tooth? Here are some delightful dessert ideas:

Final Bite

This One-Pan Skinny Chicken Alfredo is a delicious, creamy dish that everyone in the family will love. With its ease of preparation and customizable ingredients, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy the rich flavors without the guilt, and don’t forget to save some for lunch the next day! Whether it’s a busy weekday or a cozy weekend, this recipe will satisfy your cravings and make you feel good about what you’re eating. Happy cooking!