Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo
Creamy, rich, and packed with flavor, Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo is a fantastic dish that delivers all the comfort of traditional Alfredo without the dairy. This meal is perfect for anyone who is lactose intolerant, following a dairy-free diet, or simply looking to try something a little different. Chicken Alfredo combines juicy chicken with a creamy sauce, all served over gluten-free pasta. If you’re craving a hearty meal that’s easy to make and delicious to eat, you’re in the right place.
Why Make This Recipe
Choosing to make Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo comes with several benefits. First and foremost, it caters to those with dietary restrictions. Many people find it hard to enjoy classic dishes when they can’t have dairy. This recipe allows you to savor a delicious Alfredo sauce without the discomfort that lactose can bring.
Additionally, this dish is highly adaptable. By using gluten-free pasta and dairy-free alternatives, it fits various dietary needs without compromising on flavor. The sweet smoked paprika and herbs bring a depth of flavor that makes every bite enjoyable. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, so there’s minimal cleanup required, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.
Cooking at home also means you control the ingredients, ensuring you know exactly what goes into your food. This can result in a more nutritious meal, as you can choose quality ingredients that suit your dietary preferences and health goals. With all these reasons in mind, making Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo is a win-win!
How to Make Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo
Making Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Follow these steps to create a delicious meal from scratch.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 lbs Chicken breast (diced small)
- 1 3/4 tsp sweet smoked paprika
- 1 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp thyme
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 12 oz gluten-free farfalle pasta
- 4 tbsp dairy free butter
- 2 tbsp minced onion
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 2/3 tbsp gluten free 1:1 flour
- 2 cups dairy free heavy cream
- 2 cups chopped spinach
- 8 oz dairy free parmesan (shredded)
- 2 tbsp pasta water (as needed)
Directions
Boil the Pasta: Start by boiling the gluten-free farfalle in a large pot of water. Follow the package instructions to cook it until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta, but reserve a bit of the pasta water for later use.
Prepare the Chicken: In a small bowl, add the diced chicken breast. Sprinkle the sweet smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, black pepper, and salt over the chicken. Toss everything together until the chicken is well-coated in the seasoning.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Sear for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside for later.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the dairy-free butter. Allow it to melt, then add the minced onion and other sauce seasonings (Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt). Simmer these for about a minute to release their flavors.
Create the Base: Stir in the gluten-free flour, scraping the bottom of the skillet to mix well. This will help thicken your sauce and add a nice texture.
Add the Liquids: Gradually pour in the chicken broth and dairy-free heavy cream. Whisk continuously to avoid lumps and to ensure everything is well combined. Then, add the chopped spinach and continue to whisk as you simmer for about 3 to 4 minutes. The sauce should become rich and creamy.
Incorporate the Cheese: With the sauce simmering, add the dairy-free parmesan cheese. Stir until it melts completely into the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Combine Everything: Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce and mix until the pasta is well-coated. Finally, add the seared chicken to the skillet and gently stir to make sure all the ingredients are evenly mixed. Your Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo is now ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo
To serve Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo, place a generous portion on each plate. You can garnish with extra dairy-free parmesan cheese for an added flavor boost. Sprinkle a few fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, on top for a burst of color and freshness. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
For a special touch, consider serving it with gluten-free garlic bread. This will help soak up any leftover creamy sauce on your plate, making every bite delightful.
How to Store Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the Alfredo in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of dairy-free milk or vegetable broth to rehydrate the sauce. Stir gently until warmed through.
You can also freeze leftover Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo. Place it in a freezer-safe container and enjoy it within 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and follow the reheating instructions mentioned above.
Tips to Make Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality chicken will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
- Pasta Cooking Tip: Make sure to cook the gluten-free pasta al dente, as it will keep cooking slightly after you combine it with the sauce.
- Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Check for Thicker Sauce: If the sauce becomes too thick, add more pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Variation
You can customize Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo with various additions. For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. If you prefer a deeper flavor, sauté mushrooms alongside the onions before adding the sauce ingredients. You can also switch out chicken for cooked shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular pasta instead of gluten-free?
Yes! If you are not following a gluten-free diet, using traditional pasta is a great option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
2. What other dairy-free cheeses can I use?
There are many great dairy-free cheese options available. Look for brands that melt well for the best results, or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
3. How do I make this recipe for more servings?
To increase the servings, simply double the amounts of each ingredient. Ensure your skillet is large enough to combine everything without overcrowding.
Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo is a delightful dish that offers the perfect mix of flavor and comfort. By following these easy steps, you can create a delicious meal that is sure to please everyone at the table, regardless of dietary preferences! Enjoy your cooking!
Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo
Ingredients
Method
- Boil the gluten-free farfalle in a large pot of water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving some pasta water for later use.
- In a small bowl, coat diced chicken breast with sweet smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, black pepper, and salt. Toss until well-coated.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sear for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, until cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the dairy-free butter. Add minced onion and sauce seasonings (Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt). Simmer for about a minute.
- Stir in gluten-free flour, scraping the skillet to mix well.
- Gradually add chicken broth and dairy-free heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Incorporate chopped spinach and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes.
- Stir in the dairy-free parmesan cheese until melted. Add reserved pasta water as needed for desired sauce consistency.
- Toss cooked pasta into the sauce until well-coated, then add seared chicken and gently stir to combine.