How to Make the Best Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Who says you can’t enjoy rich, velvety Alfredo pasta while staying on track? This lighter Chicken Alfredo Pasta recipe slashes calories without skimping on flavor! Featuring tender chicken, whole wheat pasta, and a luxe sauce made from Greek yogurt and Parmesan, this dish is weeknight magic ready in just 30 minutes. Best of all, it’s a guilt-free way to indulge in a classic comfort food favorite. Creamy, satisfying, and totally wholesome—dinner dreams do come true!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Weight Watchers-Friendly: 7 SmartPoints® per serving (Blue Plan).
• Quick & Easy: Ready in 30 minutes—faster than takeout!
• High-Protein: Lean chicken and Greek yogurt keep you full.
• Hidden Veggies: Add spinach or zucchini for extra nutrients (0 points!).

Ingredients

• 12 oz boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
• 8 oz whole wheat pasta (or chickpea pasta for extra protein)
• 1 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or skim milk)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 1 cup fresh spinach or steamed broccoli florets
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:
Boil pasta according to package directions. Drain, reserving 1/4 cup pasta water.

Sauté Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 6–8 minutes until golden. Add garlic and sauté 1 minute.

Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In a bowl, whisk Greek yogurt, Parmesan, almond milk, and cornstarch (if using). Pour into the skillet with cooked chicken. Simmer on low for 3–4 minutes until thickened.

Combine Everything:
Toss cooked pasta and spinach/broccoli into the skillet. Add pasta water as needed for creaminess. Stir until greens wilt and sauce coats the pasta.

Season & Serve:
Top with red pepper flakes, extra Parmesan (count points), and fresh parsley.

Nutrition & SmartPoints®

Per serving (1.5 cups):

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 5g
• Fat: 6g
• SmartPoints®: 7 (Blue Plan)

Points may vary based on pasta type, cheese, or added veggies.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Side Salad: Toss mixed greens with balsamic vinegar (0 points).
• Garlic Green Beans: Sauté with minced garlic and a spritz of olive oil.
• Zucchini Noodles: Swap half the pasta for zoodles to reduce points.

Pro Tips

• Thicken the Sauce: Cornstarch or light cream cheese (1 tbsp = 1 SmartPoint®) adds richness.
• Meal Prep: Portion into containers for grab-and-go lunches (reheat with a splash of milk).
• Vegetarian Option: Use meatless chicken strips or mushrooms.
• Extra Creamy: Blend 1/4 cup cauliflower purée into the sauce (0 points!).

Why This Dish Supports Your Goals

• Lean Protein: Chicken breast keeps you satisfied and supports muscle health.
• Smart Swaps: Greek yogurt replaces heavy cream, cutting fat and calories.
• Fiber Boost: Whole wheat pasta aids digestion and balances carbs.

This Chicken Alfredo Pasta is proof that comfort food can be both wholesome and indulgent. Creamy, garlicky, and loaded with flavor, it’s a dish the whole family will love—even if they’re not counting points! Whip it up for a quick dinner, and savor every bite knowing you’re staying on track without sacrifice.