Healthy Chicken Alfredo (Cauliflower Sauce)
A lighter version of a classic dish, Healthy Chicken Alfredo (Cauliflower Sauce) combines creamy flavors with wholesome ingredients for guilt-free indulgence.
Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes minutes
Course: Homestyle Dinners
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Cauliflower Sauce, Comfort Food, Guilt-Free Alfredo, Healthy Chicken Alfredo, Low-Calorie Recipe, Quick dinner
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 350kcal
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast use skinless for a leaner dish
For the Cauliflower Sauce
- 2 cups cauliflower florets this smoothes out to create a creamy consistency
- 1 cup chicken broth adds depth and enhances the flavor of the sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese brings a rich, cheesy flavor to the sauce without excess calories
- 2 cloves garlic minced, infuses the sauce with a warm, aromatic taste
- Salt to taste, enhances the overall flavor of the dish
- Pepper to taste, adds a gentle kick to balance the creaminess
For the Pasta
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta traditional choice to pair with the Healthy Chicken Alfredo cauliflower sauce; can be substituted with whole-grain pasta for extra fiber
Directions
Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions, usually boiling in salted water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Steam the cauliflower florets until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
Add the chicken breast to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes on each side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Blend steamed cauliflower with chicken broth and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
Combine cauliflower sauce with cooked chicken in the skillet, stirring for a couple of minutes.
Mix in the drained fettuccine, tossing well to ensure every strand is coated in the creamy sauce.
Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.
Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently, adding broth or water as needed to restore creaminess.
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 80mg | Sodium: 600mg | Potassium: 800mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 500IU | Vitamin C: 70mg | Calcium: 200mg | Iron: 3mg