Enjoy a high-protein twist on a classic! This Grilled Chicken Alfredo Pasta features juicy chicken and creamy sauce for a delicious meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Protein-packed: A great source of protein from grilled chicken and high-protein pasta.
Healthier alternative: Made with almond milk or low-fat milk, and low-fat cream cheese for a lighter Alfredo sauce.

Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.
Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of sides, such as salad or roasted vegetables.

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 oz (225 g) whole wheat or high-protein pasta (e.g., chickpea or lentil pasta)
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Alfredo Sauce:
1 tbsp butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup unsweetened almond milk or low-fat milk
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp low-fat cream cheese
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

Directions

Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Grill over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining.

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Stir in almond milk, Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and onion powder. Cook, whisking constantly, until the sauce is smooth and thickened, about 4-5 minutes. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
Toss the cooked pasta in the Alfredo sauce until evenly coated. Add the sliced grilled chicken on top.

Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately with a side salad or steamed veggies.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with grilled tofu or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

Extra veggies: Add spinach, broccoli, or roasted cherry tomatoes to the pasta for added nutrients.
Spicy twist: Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the Alfredo sauce for a hint of heat.
Different proteins: Swap chicken with shrimp or turkey for variety.

Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.

Freezing: Alfredo sauce doesn’t freeze well, but the grilled chicken and pasta can be frozen separately for up to 2 months.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular pasta instead of high-protein pasta?

Yes, regular pasta works perfectly if you don’t need the extra protein boost.

2. Can I make the Alfredo sauce dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cream cheese and Parmesan substitutes along with almond or oat milk.

3. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Don’t overcook the chicken; use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).

4. What can I use instead of almond milk?

You can use any milk of your choice, such as low-fat cow’s milk, oat milk, or soy milk.

5. How can I make the sauce thicker?

Whisk in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the sauce if needed.

6. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can grill the chicken and prepare the sauce in advance. Combine everything when ready to serve.

7. Is there a substitute for Parmesan cheese?

Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are great alternatives to Parmesan.

8. How can I make the dish lower in calories?

Use zoodles (zucchini noodles) instead of pasta and reduce the amount of cream cheese.

9. Can I bake this dish instead of grilling the chicken?

Yes, bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked.

10. Can I add more protein to this dish?

Yes, add sliced hard-boiled eggs, chickpeas, or edamame for additional protein.

Conclusion

High Protein Grilled Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a quick, creamy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy comfort food without compromising on nutrition. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a post-workout meal, this recipe delivers bold flavors and balanced nutrients. Try it today for a healthy twist on a classic favorite!

High Protein Grilled Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Author: Chef Clara
Total Time: 30 minutes

Yield: 4 1x
Diet: Low Salt

Print Recipe

Description

Enjoy a high-protein twist on a classic! This Grilled Chicken Alfredo Pasta features juicy chicken and creamy sauce for a delicious meal.

Ingredients

Scale

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 oz (225 g) whole wheat or high-protein pasta (e.g., chickpea or lentil pasta)
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Alfredo Sauce:

tbsp butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup unsweetened almond milk or low-fat milk

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp low-fat cream cheese
1/2 tsp onion powder

Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Grill over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Stir in almond milk, Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and onion powder. Cook, whisking constantly, until the sauce is smooth and thickened, about 4-5 minutes. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.

Toss the cooked pasta in the Alfredo sauce until evenly coated. Add the sliced grilled chicken on top.
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately with a side salad or steamed veggies.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Cuisines
Method: Grilling and Cooking

Cuisine: Italian-American