This Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo delivers all the creamy, cheesy goodness of the classic dish—without the extra fat and calories. Made with a lighter sauce using low-fat milk, Greek yogurt, and just a touch of Parmesan, this healthier version is perfect for satisfying your Alfredo cravings guilt-free!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Lightened-up version of a classic comfort food.
- Uses simple, wholesome ingredients for a healthier twist.
- Creamy and flavorful without heavy cream or butter.
- High in protein and lower in calories than traditional Alfredo.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Chicken:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast
- Olive oil or cooking spray
- Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper
For the Skinny Alfredo Sauce:
- Low-fat milk (1% or skim)
- Low-sodium chicken broth
- Plain Greek yogurt
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Garlic, minced
- Flour (to thicken)
- Salt and black pepper
- Optional: Nutmeg for extra flavor
For the Pasta:
- Whole wheat or regular fettuccine
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions
- Cook the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook in a skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes per side). Let rest, then slice.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: In a saucepan, sauté garlic in a little olive oil over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in low-fat milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Thicken the Sauce: Simmer until slightly thickened, then stir in Parmesan cheese, Greek yogurt, salt, and pepper. Cook until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Everything: Toss the pasta in the Alfredo sauce, then top with sliced chicken.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Dairy-Free Option: Use unsweetened almond milk and dairy-free yogurt.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and replace flour with cornstarch.
- Extra Veggies: Add steamed broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach for more nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the yogurt-based sauce may separate.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Yes! Whole wheat pasta adds fiber and keeps it healthier.
2. How do I keep the sauce from curdling?
Use low heat and stir constantly when adding Greek yogurt.
3. Can I use cornstarch instead of flour?
Yes, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with cold broth before adding to the sauce.
4. Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Use zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles instead of pasta.
5. What’s the best way to make it extra creamy?
Add a bit more Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese for richness.
6. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken works great.
7. Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the sauce and store separately.
8. How do I prevent the sauce from being too thick?
Add extra chicken broth or milk while stirring to reach the desired consistency.
9. What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?
Low-fat sour cream or blended cottage cheese works well.
10. Can I add mushrooms or spinach?
Absolutely! Sautéed mushrooms or fresh spinach add extra flavor and nutrients.
Conclusion
This Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is the perfect way to enjoy a creamy, satisfying pasta dish without the guilt. With its rich flavor and lighter ingredients, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional Alfredo that doesn’t sacrifice taste. Try it tonight for a comforting and delicious meal!
PrintSkinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo
This Skinny Low-Fat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo delivers all the creamy, cheesy goodness of classic Alfredo—but with fewer calories and fat! Made with a lightened-up sauce using Greek yogurt and reduced-fat milk, this dish is rich, satisfying, and perfect for a guilt-free pasta night!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour)
- 1 ½ cups low-fat (2%) or skim milk
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz whole wheat or regular fettuccine
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the pan, let rest for a few minutes, then slice into thin strips.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in flour and whisk for 1 minute to create a light roux.
- Slowly whisk in low-fat milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until slightly thickened (2–3 minutes).
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using) until smooth.
- Remove from heat and whisk in Greek yogurt until fully combined.
Step 4: Combine & Serve
- Toss the cooked fettuccine with the Alfredo sauce until evenly coated.
- Add the sliced chicken on top and gently mix.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Thicker Sauce: Use 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water instead of flour for a gluten-free option.
- Lighter Option: Use zucchini noodles or chickpea pasta instead of fettuccine.
- Make Ahead: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
- Extra Flavor: Add sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli for more texture.