If you've ever dreamed of diving into a plate of silky, rich Chicken Alfredo-without any of the guilt-then this Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo is the dish for you! It's deliciously creamy, full of flavor, and lighter than the classic version, thanks to some clever ingredient swaps.

Tender bites of seasoned chicken mingle with perfectly cooked fettuccine, all wrapped up in a velvety, tangy Alfredo sauce that tastes utterly indulgent but keeps your macros in check. You won't even miss the heavy cream!

This recipe is a weeknight lifesaver: quick to prepare, easy to clean up, and sure to be loved by kids and adults alike. Inspired by my love for cozy Italian comfort food, it's become a regular at our table-and I know it'll be a hit in your home, too!

A bowl of creamy low calorie chicken alfredo garnished with parsley and black pepper

Why You'll Love This Recipe

All the comfort, none of the guilt! Enjoy creamy Alfredo flavor without the calorie overload.
Quick & easy for busy nights. On the table in under 45 minutes.
Family friendly and picky-eater approved. A great way to get everyone excited about a lighter meal.
No-fuss, simple ingredients. Minimal prep and everyday supermarket staples.
Meal-prep smart. Tastes just as good reheated for next-day lunches.

Key Ingredients for Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Chicken Breast

This lean protein keeps things light and satisfying, making the dish filling without excess fat or calories. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized strips for the quickest cook time and the perfect tenderness. You can also substitute with chicken tenders or even rotisserie chicken for an ultra-quick shortcut.

Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is the secret hero for a creamy Alfredo that won't bust your calorie budget! It lends the sauce a subtle tang and rich texture, all while adding extra protein. For best results, use nonfat or low-fat Greek yogurt. Don't worry-it blends in perfectly with the Parmesan cheese and seasonings.

Parmesan Cheese

Aged Parmesan delivers tons of umami and that signature Alfredo taste with just a modest amount. Freshly grated is best for melting smoothly and maximizing flavor, but you can use pre-grated in a pinch. If you need a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast or your favorite plant-based Parmesan.

Fettuccine (or Linguine)

Classic Alfredo typically uses fettuccine, but feel free to swap in linguine or any long pasta shape you love. Whole wheat or high-fiber pasta are fantastic choices for even more nutritional value. For gluten-free, use a chickpea or brown rice pasta.

Garlic

A couple of cloves of garlic transform the sauce with aromatic depth and warmth. Mince the garlic finely or use a garlic press for the best distribution. In a hurry? Substitute with ½ teaspoon garlic powder.

Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo cooking process

Instructions for Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your fettuccine and cook according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water in case you want to thin out the sauce later.

Sauté the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper. Add them to the pan in a single layer. Sauté for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate and keep warm.

Make the Lighter Alfredo Sauce

Lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the same pan and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant (don't let it burn!). Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits. Stir in the Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Stir in Yogurt and Cheese

Turn off the heat (this prevents the yogurt from curdling). Whisk in the Greek yogurt and ½ cup of the Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked fettuccine and sautéed chicken back into the skillet. Toss together until everything is well coated with sauce and heated through. Divide among bowls, sprinkle with remaining Parmesan and fresh parsley, and serve immediately!

Recipe Variations

Veggie Lovers' Alfredo

Bulk up the dish with extra veggies! Add sautéed broccoli florets, baby spinach, or sliced mushrooms when making the sauce. They blend beautifully with the creamy Alfredo and add more nutrients for fewer calories.

Gluten-Free Option

Swap the regular fettuccine for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Brown rice, quinoa, or chickpea-based noodles work perfectly and hold up well to the creamy sauce.

Spice It Up

Give your Alfredo a kick by adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes along with the garlic. A touch of smoked paprika or cajun seasoning will create a bolder, zesty flavor profile.

Dairy-Free Makeover

For a dairy-free version, try unsweetened plain almond milk yogurt instead of Greek yogurt and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan. The result is still creamy and packed with flavor!

Shrimp Alfredo Swap

Love seafood? Substitute shrimp for chicken! Sauté peeled, deveined shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, then use as you would the chicken for a super quick, low calorie twist.

Serving Suggestions

Make this Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo a meal by pairing it with a simple green salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. For extra color and freshness, garnish with fresh parsley, cracked black pepper, and a sprinkle of lemon zest. Warm whole grain bread or a roasted garlic baguette also make a comforting side.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce if needed. Freezing is not recommended, as the yogurt-based sauce can separate upon thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo (FAQ)

Q: Can I make this Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo ahead of time?

A: Yes! Simply cook as directed, cool, and refrigerate. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to refresh the sauce.

Q: What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?

A: Light sour cream or low-fat cream cheese are good substitutes, though they'll slightly change the flavor. Choose plain, unsweetened varieties for best results.

Q: How can I add more vegetables?

A: Stir in steamed broccoli, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms when mixing the sauce and pasta. They'll add bulk and extra nutrients with barely any extra calories.

If you're craving comfort food that fits your healthy eating goals, this Low Calorie Chicken Alfredo is your dream come true. It's creamy, flavorful, and simple enough for any night of the week. Give it a try, and be sure to leave a comment or rating to let me know how it turned out. Enjoy every luscious, guilt-free bite!