One-Pot Lightened-Up Chicken Alfredo
Lauren Mardeusz, RD Salt + Honey Nutrition Therapy
When it comes to dinner, few meals are as universally loved as a creamy bowl of Chicken Alfredo. But the beauty of this meal is that it doesn’t require hours in the kitchen or a pile of dirty dishes. This one-pot meal is a game-changer for busy families, combining wholesome ingredients with simple preparation. The result is a comforting, creamy pasta dish that’s hearty enough for everyone at the table and easy enough to whip up on a weeknight.
Using one pot for this dish not only cuts down on cleanup but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Cooking the pasta in the same pot as the chicken and sauce creates a rich, velvety texture that coats every bite. This technique also ensures that every ingredient contributes to the overall flavor profile. It’s a smart approach to making healthy food that’s both practical and satisfying.
Chicken Alfredo is also a great way to sneak in extra nutrition for your family. Using a lighter base for the sauce—like broth combined with a touch of cream or Greek yogurt—keeps the dish creamy without feeling overly heavy. Pair it with lean, protein-packed chicken and nutrient-rich vegetables like spinach, peas, or broccoli for a well-rounded, one-dish dinner. You can even swap traditional pasta for whole-grain or chickpea-based options for a little extra fiber and protein.
The flexibility of this dish makes it a win for both picky eaters and adventurous palates. For kids, the creamy sauce and familiar pasta make it an easy sell. For parents, the chance to add a variety of veggies or experiment with seasonings like garlic, parsley, or even a pinch of nutmeg adds depth and flavor. You can even make it your own by incorporating mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh herbs from your garden.
What truly makes this one-pot dinner special is how it simplifies dinnertime without sacrificing taste or quality. Whether it’s a busy school night or a relaxed Sunday evening, this dish can be prepared quickly, served effortlessly, and enjoyed thoroughly. And because it’s all made in one pot, you’ll have more time to spend with your family and less time scrubbing pans in the sink.
This lightened-up Chicken Alfredo is a testament to how comforting meals can still be healthy food options that support your family’s nutrition needs. It’s a reminder that cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious and that a little creativity can turn a classic dish into something even better.
So, the next time you’re in need of a quick, satisfying, and wholesome dinner idea, this one-pot meal should be at the top of your list. It’s family-friendly, fuss-free, and guaranteed to bring smiles to the dinner table.
One-Pot Lightened-Up Chicken Alfredo
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Strainer
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup whole milk Greek yogurt for creaminess
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta penne or fettuccine works well
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup spinach optional
- Fresh parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked through and browned. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same pot, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and milk, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the pasta: Add the pasta to the pot, making sure it’s covered by the liquid. Stir occasionally and cook according to the package instructions (about 9-10 minutes for whole wheat pasta) or until the pasta is al dente.
- Combine everything: Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the sauce becomes creamy and the cheese is melted. Add the cooked chicken and spinach (if using), stirring until the spinach wilts and everything is well combined.
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the pasta in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
Calories: 380
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 12g
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