High Protein Chicken Alfredo

This High Protein Chicken Alfredo is not just a meal; it’s a delicious way to enjoy a healthy and protein-packed dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe combines tender chicken, hearty chickpea pasta, and vibrant broccoli in a creamy alfredo sauce. With no cottage cheese or cauliflower involved, you can savor all the flavors without compromising on your dietary goals. It’s an ideal choice for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet while indulging in comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• High Protein Content: Each serving boasts an impressive 46 grams of protein, making it perfect for muscle recovery and growth.
• Quick and Easy: With only 30 minutes of prep time, this dish is simple enough for any skill level.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of alfredo sauce, chicken, and mozzarella creates a rich flavor that everyone will love.
• Versatile Meal Prep: Great for dinner or packed lunches, it keeps well in the fridge, making it a go-to option for meal prepping.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will appreciate this creamy pasta dish, ensuring the whole family enjoys their meal.

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Tools and Preparation

To create this high-protein chicken alfredo bake, you’ll need a few essential tools. These make preparation smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Air fryer or oven
• Steamer basket or microwave-safe bowl
• Baking dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking pasta perfectly al dente without sticking.
• Air fryer or oven: Provides even cooking for the chicken and gives the top of the bake a lovely golden finish.
• Steamer basket or microwave-safe bowl: Makes steaming broccoli quick and easy while preserving nutrients.

Ingredients

This high-protein chicken alfredo bake packs 46 grams of protein in under 500 calories! Simple recipe – NO cottage cheese & no cauliflower.

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces chickpea pasta dry

For the Chicken

• 2 lbs chicken tenders (20 ounces cooked)
• sprinkle salt
• sprinkle pepper
• butter or Italian seasoning

For the Veggies

• 8 cups broccoli

For the Sauce

• 7 ounces alfredo sauce (I used Rao’s)
• 1 cup mozzarella

How to Make High Protein Chicken Alfredo

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the chickpea pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions.
3. Drain using a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season chicken tenders with Kinder’s butter seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook in an air fryer at 400F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Alternatively, you can grill or bake them until fully cooked.
3. Once cooked, chop into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Steam Broccoli

1. Place broccoli in a steamer basket or microwave-safe bowl with a little water.
2. Steam in the microwave until tender but still bright green.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients and Bake

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, chopped chicken, steamed broccoli, and alfredo sauce.
2. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
3. Transfer to a baking dish and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
4. Bake at 400F for about 20 minutes until bubbly with golden spots on top.

Now you have an easy-to-make High Protein Chicken Alfredo that is sure to become a favorite in your household!

How to Serve High Protein Chicken Alfredo

High Protein Chicken Alfredo is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or a meal prep option, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Family Style

• Serve the High Protein Chicken Alfredo in a large baking dish for everyone to help themselves. This creates a communal dining atmosphere, perfect for family gatherings.

Individual Portions

• For a more elegant presentation, portion the chicken alfredo into individual ramekins. This is great for dinner parties and makes serving easy.

With Fresh Herbs

• Top each serving with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. This adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor profile of the dish.

With Extra Cheese

• If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle additional mozzarella or parmesan on top before baking. This will create an even cheesier and more indulgent experience.

As Meal Prep

• Divide the High Protein Chicken Alfredo into meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. It stays fresh and delicious when stored properly.

How to Perfect High Protein Chicken Alfredo

To ensure your High Protein Chicken Alfredo turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality alfredo sauce and fresh chicken tenders to enhance the overall flavor of your dish.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking pasta just until it’s al dente prevents it from becoming mushy when baked with the sauce.

• Season Generously: Don’t skip seasoning your chicken well with salt, pepper, and herbs for maximum flavor.

• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your bake while it’s in the oven; remove it when it’s bubbly and golden on top to avoid overcooking.

• Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to increase nutrients and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for High Protein Chicken Alfredo

Pairing side dishes with your High Protein Chicken Alfredo can enhance your meal dramatically. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic pairing; buttery garlic bread complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the alfredo.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers a vibrant color and earthy flavor that contrasts nicely with the pasta.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their nutty taste adds depth, making them an excellent side dish alongside this filling meal.
5. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve zucchini noodles alongside or under the chicken alfredo for extra veggies.
6. Mixed Veggie Medley: A mix of seasonal vegetables lightly sautéed in olive oil adds freshness and nutrients to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your High Protein Chicken Alfredo, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can enhance your dish. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to properly season your chicken can lead to blandness. Always use salt, pepper, and any preferred spices.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions for al dente cooking.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking without preheating can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat to ensure consistent results.
• Using low-quality sauce: Cheap alfredo sauce can ruin the dish’s flavor. Choose a high-quality sauce like Rao’s for better taste.
• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Mixing cold ingredients can affect baking time. Make sure ingredients are at room temperature before combining.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing High Protein Chicken Alfredo

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Label with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating High Protein Chicken Alfredo

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish in 1-minute intervals until warm, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding High Protein Chicken Alfredo that you might find helpful.

Can I use different pasta?

Absolutely! You can substitute chickpea pasta with whole grain or gluten-free options according to your preference.

How do I make this dish lower in calories?

To reduce calories, use less cheese or choose a lighter alfredo sauce option while maintaining protein sources.

Can I meal prep High Protein Chicken Alfredo?

Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge or freezer for later meals.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes! Kids usually enjoy creamy dishes, and this high-protein version offers nutritional benefits without compromising on taste.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Chicken Alfredo is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various dietary needs. Feel free to customize it by adding different vegetables or swapping proteins as desired. Enjoy this heartwarming meal that’s sure to satisfy cravings while keeping you fueled!