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Creamy Chicken Alfredo Comfort Food Dinner

Yes, you can have that rich, creamy Alfredo you're craving without blowing your calorie budget! This lightened-up version uses a few clever swaps to keep things indulgent while staying under 400 calories per serving. Your family won't even notice it's the healthier version, promise!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz whole wheat fettuccine
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup low-fat milk
  • 4 oz light cream cheese softened
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Method
 

  1. Cook fettuccine according to package directions. Drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water, and set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for 5-6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add milk and cream cheese to the skillet, whisking constantly until cream cheese melts and sauce is smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
  6. Return chicken and pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat. Add reserved pasta water if needed to reach desired consistency.
  7. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.