If you’re on the hunt for a delicious meal that doesn’t skimp on nutrients, this High Protein Chicken Alfredo is exactly what you need. A perfect balance of creamy sauce and tender chicken, this dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also packs a powerful protein punch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High Protein Content: Each bite is filled with protein-rich chicken to fuel your day.
- Creamy but Healthy: The blended cottage cheese creates a luscious sauce without heavy cream, making it lighter yet satisfyingly creamy.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples you likely already have, this dish is as convenient as it is tasty.
- Customizable Flavor: Easily adapt this recipe to your preference or what’s on hand in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Get ready to transform some simple kitchen staples into a gourmet feast! Each ingredient plays a crucial role, ensuring your High Protein Chicken Alfredo is as delicious as it is nutritious. Let’s dive in!
- Olive Oil: Rich in healthy fats, it’s perfect for sautéing to get that beautiful golden sear on the chicken.
- Chicken Thighs: Juicy and flavorful, they’re the heart of the dish, providing both taste and protein.
- Fettuccine: The classic pasta choice for Alfredo, its broad surface holds onto the creamy sauce effortlessly.
- Cottage Cheese: When blended, it becomes smooth and creamy, a healthy alternative to heavy cream with less fat and more protein.
- Parmigiano Reggiano: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that elevates the sauce to a new level.
- Fresh Parsley: Provides a pop of color and a fresh, herby taste that brightens the dish.
Variations
This High Protein Chicken Alfredo is incredibly versatile, and it’s a breeze to tweak according to your dietary needs or flavor preferences. Here are some suggestions to make it truly your own.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap out the chicken for some hearty mushrooms or tofu to keep the protein high without the meat.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace the fettuccine with zucchini noodles to enjoy a lighter, low-carb meal.
- Lactose-Free: Use lactose-free cottage cheese and parmesan to make this dish suitable for those with sensitivities.
How to Make High Protein Chicken Alfredo
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. Once the oil is shimmering, place the chicken in the skillet. Allow it to cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes on one side to develop a nice crust, then flip and cook for another 6-8 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
While the chicken cooks, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the fettuccine. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining, just in case you need to loosen the sauce later.
Step 3: Blend the Cottage Cheese
In the meantime, place the cottage cheese in a blender or food processor and blend until completely smooth and creamy, about 3-5 minutes. This will form the base of your Alfredo sauce.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet used for the chicken, add the remaining olive oil and slivered garlic. Sauté until the garlic is fragrant and just begins to brown. Lower the heat and add the blended cottage cheese, 1 cup of parmigiano reggiano, and milk, whisking until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Combine with the pasta and chicken.
Pro Tips for Making High Protein Chicken Alfredo
- Achieving the Perfect Sear: Ensure your pan is sufficiently hot before adding chicken to avoid chicken sticking and to create a flavorful crust.
- Sauce Consistency: If your Alfredo sauce is too thick, use reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency to your liking.
- Pasta Timing: Time the cooking of your pasta so it’s ready to combine just as your sauce finishes, keeping everything fresh and hot for serving.
- Herb Finishing Touch: Fresh herbs like parsley add a splash of color and an herbal note that contrasts beautifully with the rich sauce.
How to Serve High Protein Chicken Alfredo
Garnishes
Topping your High Protein Chicken Alfredo with fresh parsley and extra shavings of parmesan cheese not only adds flavor but also elevates the look of the dish with a touch of gourmet flair. Crack some black pepper over the top for a bit of spice and extra aroma.
Side Dishes
This creamy chicken alfredo pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables, providing a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. A crusty garlic bread on the side can also enhance the meal, making every bite utterly enjoyable.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, try serving the pasta in deep bowls or wide-mouthed dishes. Twirl a forkful of fettuccine to nest it into a mound at the center of the dish before adding slices of chicken on top. Sprinkle with garnishes right before bringing it to the table for that last-minute pop of color.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To store leftovers, allow the pasta to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days. Be sure to keep the pasta and chicken submerged in sauce to prevent drying out.
Freezing
This High Protein Chicken Alfredo can also be frozen. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to two months. When freezing, ensure the sauce covers the pasta as much as possible to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to help loosen the sauce during reheating. Stir occasionally until heated through and the sauce is once again creamy.
FAQs
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Can I use another type of cheese?
Absolutely! While parmigiano reggiano is traditional, you can substitute with grana padano or even a combination of mozzarella and romano for a different flavor profile.
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How can I add more vegetables to the dish?
Add some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli directly into the sauce. They blend seamlessly and add both nutrients and texture.
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Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, use a plant-based cottage cheese and a dairy-free parmesan alternative. Substituting milk with almond or oat milk can also help achieve creamy consistency without dairy.
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What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water or additional milk until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
This High Protein Chicken Alfredo is truly a crowd-pleaser that combines comfort and nutrition beautifully. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try it, enjoying both the flavors and the hearty satisfaction it brings. Don’t forget to share your delicious creations and spread the love for this wonderful meal!
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High Protein Chicken Alfredo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A rich and creamy high-protein Chicken Alfredo made with tender chicken thighs, smooth cottage cheese, and Parmesan, tossed with al dente fettuccine for a satisfying and nutritious meal that combines classic Italian flavors with a protein boost.
Ingredients
Protein and Meat
– 1.25 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighsPasta
– 12 ounces fettuccineDairy and Cheese
– 16 ounces cottage cheese – 1.25 cups parmigiano reggiano shredded, divided – 1/2 cup milkVegetables and Aromatics
– 4 cloves garlic, slivered – 1/4 cup fresh parsley choppedOils and Seasonings
– 4 teaspoons olive oil divided – 1 teaspoon salt – 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepperInstructions
- Cook the Chicken: Add 2 teaspoons of olive oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs on both sides with salt and pepper. When the oil is hot and shimmering, add the chicken thighs. Cook for 5-6 minutes on one side until browned, then flip and sear for another 6-8 minutes until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from pan and let rest.
- Cook the Pasta: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Cottage Cheese: Transfer the cottage cheese to a blender or food processor. Blend for 3-5 minutes until smooth and creamy.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet used for the chicken, add 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the slivered garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant and starts to brown, about 1 minute.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: Pour the blended cottage cheese into the skillet, add 1 cup of Parmesan cheese, and pour in milk. Turn the heat to low and whisk until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Remove the skillet from heat. Slice the rested chicken thinly and add it to the sauce along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together to coat evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese, additional cracked black pepper, and chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy a hearty, protein-packed Alfredo.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts if preferred.
- Blending cottage cheese gives the sauce a creamy texture without using heavy cream.
- Feel free to add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and gently reheated; add a splash of milk if needed for creaminess.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle with freshly grated nutmeg or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 580 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 70 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 45 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
