Alfredo Chicken
Creamy Alfredo chicken with fresh vegetables and herbs, perfect for a comforting family dinner or a special occasion, blending rich flavors with a light, fresh touch.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken fillets ⓘ
- 1 small yellow squash
- 1/2 Tbsp garlic, fresh or powdered ⓘ
- 1 tsp Romano or Parmesan cheese, grated ⓘ
- 3 Tbsp fresh or dried basil, chopped
- 3/4 lb linguini
- 1 small zucchini squash ⓘ
- 1 sweet red pepper ⓘ
- 1/2 Tbsp ground pepper, fresh ⓘ
- 1/4 cup reduced-salt chicken stock ⓘ
- 1/4 cup evaporated skim milk
Instructions
- Cook the linguini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Slice the chicken fillets into strips or cubes. Season as desired.
- In a large skillet, cook the chicken over medium heat until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add garlic, chopped basil, and red pepper to the skillet; cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Slice the yellow squash and zucchini into thin rounds or half-moons.
- Add the sliced squash and red pepper to the skillet; cook for about 5 minutes until tender.
- Pour in the chicken stock and evaporated skim milk; stir to combine and simmer for 3-5 minutes to thicken.
- Stir in the grated Romano/Parmesan cheese and ground pepper.
- Combine the cooked linguini with the chicken and vegetable mixture. Toss well to coat evenly.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional basil or cheese if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs before cooking. You can substitute the linguini with whole wheat pasta or gluten-free options if preferred. Experiment with other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for variety, or use Chicken Alfredo as a base for more complex dishes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Alfredo Chicken alongside a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, pair it with Italian Black-Eyed Peas With Pasta. Garnish with extra basil or cheese to enhance presentation and flavor. This dish is a perfect centerpiece for a family dinner or a gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or milk to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Alfredo Chicken contains roughly 145 calories, with 4g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute Romano or Parmesan cheese with other cheeses like mozzarella or Gouda for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make this dish healthier, consider using skinless chicken breasts and adding more vegetables, like broccoli or asparagus. You can also substitute evaporated skim milk with a plant-based milk for a lighter option while maintaining creaminess.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and vegetables in advance. Simply cook them and store separately from the linguini. When ready to serve, reheat and combine all components. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or busy weeknights.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).