Alfredo with Broccoli and Chicken

By Stephanie

Another reason I am not a size 2. 

So this is one of my “go to'” meals.  Alfredo.  I try to add in broccoli and chicken for protein and vitamins, but really, it’s still alfredo.  When cooking you don’t have to be exact, so depending on how dangerous you feel, put more or less butter in yours.  My mom and niece both had recipes that called for cream cheese.  So I experimented and came up with a lower fat version based on that.  NOT low fat…LOWER fat.  Feel less guilty, but yes, still alfredo.  And my kids LOVE it.  So yes, I will continue to make it…and workout after.

Lower Fat Alfredo

8 oz. Neufchatel cheese

1/2 cup heavy cream

2-4 Tablespoons butter

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 –3/4 cup milk

1 cup graded parmesan cheese (plus some to top with)

1 lb broccoli cut up into 1” pieces

2-3 boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1” cubes

2 T oil

1 box pasta (I like penne or fettuccini)

In large stock pot fill with water and bring to a boil.   When the water is boiling add about a teaspoon salt and then the pasta and broccoli.  Cook according to pasta directions just to al dente.  But reserve at least 1 cup of pasta water when you drain. 

In separate small sauce pan combine Neufchatel cheese, cream, butter, garlic and milk.  Heat up over med-low heat.  When hot add in parmesan cheese and still to melt.

In large sauté pan heat oil over medium heat.  Add chicken half at a time (don’t overcrowd the pan).  And I usually cut the chicken when it is still partially frozen….and cook it that way.  SSSSSHHH don’t tell.   Cook chicken until golden brown on the outside, but not all the way through.  Then take the chicken out and put on separate plate.  Add into pan the rest of the chicken and cook same as before. 

Add chicken and sauce into drained pasta.  You will need to loosen up with pasta water.  Put the lid on and let sit for at least 5 minutes.    The sauce will absorb into the pasta and make it SO delicious. 

Oh I almost forgot!  You know that pan with all the great drippings from your chicken you can throw some pasta water in that and scrape them up before adding to the pan with pasta, chicken and sauce.  No need to waste flavor…

Enjoy along with a good cardio workout…..