If you’re looking for a nutritious and delicious meal to fuel your body while keeping you full, look no further than this high-protein creamy chicken Alfredo. This recipe not only tastes amazing but is packed with protein, making it the perfect choice for anyone seeking a healthy meal without compromising on flavor. It’s also incredibly easy to make, and with meal prep in mind, you can have lunch or dinner sorted for days ahead.
In this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step through the recipe, provide nutritional information, and share some tips to make the process even easier.
Ingredients
To create this protein-packed dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that are both healthy and flavorful:
For the Chicken:
- 960g diced chicken breast (lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair)
- 1 lemon (juiced)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1.5 teaspoons Italian herb seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 diced onion
- 4 diced garlic cloves
- 90g Parmesan cheese (for extra flavor and creaminess)
- 250ml chicken stock (adds moisture and richness)
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 500g low-fat cottage cheese (a great source of protein)
- 50g light cream cheese (adds a creamy texture)
- 100ml milk (for the sauce base)
- 45g Parmesan cheese (for that cheesy, savory flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Italian herb seasoning
For the Pasta:
- 640g pasta (any type you prefer, although penne works great for this recipe)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing the diced chicken breast into your slow cooker. Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice over the chicken for a burst of tangy freshness. Then, sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian herb seasoning, and salt over the chicken. Mix it all together thoroughly, ensuring the chicken is well-coated with the seasonings.
Step 2: Add the Aromatics
Next, add the diced onion and garlic to the slow cooker. These aromatics will release their flavors as they cook, infusing the chicken with a deep, savory taste. Stir everything well, and then add the Parmesan cheese to the mixture, which will start melting and creating a cheesy, creamy base. Pour in the chicken stock to keep everything moist while cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 3-4 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. The slow cooking process will tenderize the chicken and allow the flavors to meld together. You’ll notice the chicken becoming juicy and well-seasoned as it cooks.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the pasta. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta until it’s about halfway done. You want it al dente since it will finish cooking later when combined with the sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 5: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In a blender, combine the low-fat cottage cheese, light cream cheese, milk, Parmesan cheese, and Italian herb seasoning. Blend everything until smooth and creamy. The cottage cheese serves as a healthier alternative to heavy cream, providing the same creamy texture but with fewer calories and more protein. The Parmesan cheese adds depth and flavor to the sauce.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Once the chicken has finished cooking, mix everything in the slow cooker. Add the half-cooked pasta, then pour in the prepared Alfredo sauce. Stir everything together until the pasta, chicken, and sauce are thoroughly combined. The heat from the slow cooker will finish cooking the pasta and help the sauce thicken up to the perfect creamy consistency.
Step 7: Final Touches
Once everything is mixed well, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese and parsley over the top for a fresh and cheesy finish. Let it cook for another 10-15 minutes on low, so the flavors have time to meld together perfectly.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, divide the creamy chicken Alfredo into equal portions. This recipe makes 8 servings, perfect for meal prepping for the week. Store the portions in individual containers, and you’ll have a ready-to-go, high-protein meal throughout the week. You can also enjoy this dish right away!
Why Choose This High-Protein Chicken Alfredo?
This recipe is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to increase their protein intake while still enjoying a rich, comforting meal. The use of lean chicken and protein-rich dairy products ensures that you’re not only getting a delicious meal but also one that supports muscle building and recovery.
Additionally, meal prepping with this recipe is a breeze. You can make a batch ahead of time and store it in individual containers for a hassle-free lunch or dinner throughout the week. The creamy texture and flavorful seasoning make it an easy favorite for anyone who enjoys a filling meal without feeling overly heavy.
Nutritional Information
One serving of this high-protein creamy chicken Alfredo (approximately 1/8th of the recipe) contains:
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 62g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
As you can see, each serving is packed with a substantial amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and recovery. The dish is relatively low in fat compared to traditional Alfredo recipes, thanks to the use of lean chicken, low-fat cottage cheese, and light cream cheese. With 550 calories per serving, it’s a satisfying meal that won’t derail your nutritional goals.
Health Benefits
- Supports Muscle Growth and Repair: With 62g of protein per serving, this dish is an ideal option for those focusing on building or maintaining muscle mass. Protein is essential for muscle repair after exercise and helps improve overall muscle strength.
- Promotes Satiety and Weight Management: The high protein content helps you feel full for longer, reducing the temptation for unhealthy snacking between meals. Additionally, the combination of protein with moderate carbs ensures that you have sustained energy without spikes in blood sugar.
- Low in Unhealthy Fats: By using low-fat cottage cheese and light cream cheese, this recipe keeps the fat content lower than traditional Alfredo dishes, making it heart-healthier without sacrificing taste.
- Packed with Nutrients: The chicken provides important vitamins and minerals such as B-vitamins and zinc, while the spices and herbs contribute antioxidants that can support your overall health.
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Conclusion
With the right balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates, this high-protein creamy chicken Alfredo is perfect for meal prepping. Whether you’re looking to maintain a healthy diet, gain muscle, or simply enjoy a wholesome meal, this recipe ticks all the boxes. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to keep you satisfied. So why not give it a try and fuel your body with this deliciously creamy and nutritious dish today!