Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo

This Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. With its rich and creamy texture, it brings all the comfort you love without any dairy or gluten. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table. Enjoy the flavors of Italian cuisine while keeping your meals light and healthy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of chicken and dairy free parmesan creates a satisfying taste that rivals traditional Alfredo.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
• Versatile Dish: Pair it with different vegetables or proteins to mix things up and suit your family’s preferences.
• Health-Conscious: This recipe is both gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs without compromising flavor.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this creamy pasta dish, making mealtime easier for parents.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the essential tools before you start. Having everything ready will allow you to focus on creating this delicious meal.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Pot
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Ideal for searing chicken and making the sauce, ensuring even cooking and great flavor.
• Pot: Necessary for boiling pasta; a large pot allows ample space for cooking the farfalle evenly.
• Whisk: Great for mixing ingredients smoothly; prevents lumps in your creamy sauce.

Ingredients

For this Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo, you’ll need:

For the Chicken

• 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

For the Pasta

• 12 oz gluten-free farfalle

For the Sauce

• 4 tbsp dairy free butter
• 2 tbsp minced onion
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 cup 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)

How to Make Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Boil the pasta in a large pot of water according to the package directions for al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Add the chicken and chicken seasonings to a small bowl and toss to thoroughly coat the chicken.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Sear the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees. Transfer the chicken to a plate.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce Base

Add dairy free butter to the same skillet and let it melt. Then, add all sauce seasonings and simmer them for about a minute.

Step 5: Add Flour

Mix well with flour in the skillet, scraping down any bits stuck to the bottom.

Step 6: Create Creamy Sauce

Add chicken broth and heavy cream. Incorporate spinach while whisking well. Simmer while whisking for 3 to 4 minutes until thickened.

Step 7: Incorporate Cheese

Stir in dairy free parmesan cheese until melted completely. Continue cooking until reaching desired thickness.

Step 8: Combine with Pasta

Add cooked pasta into the skillet and toss to coat evenly. Use reserved pasta water if necessary to thin out sauce.

Step 9: Finish with Chicken

Gently stir in seared chicken ensuring everything is well-coated. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo

Dairy free chicken alfredo is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together a variety of greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar-Inspired Salad: Use dairy free dressing and add croutons for a classic twist without the dairy.

Add Garlic Bread

• Toasted Baguette Slices: Spread dairy free butter on sliced baguette and toast until golden for a perfect side.
• Garlic Knots: Use pizza dough to create flavorful knots brushed with garlic and dairy free butter.

Create a Pasta Bar

• Toppings Station: Set up toppings like sautéed mushrooms, grilled veggies, or additional shredded dairy free parmesan for customization.
• Choice of Noodles: Offer alternatives such as gluten-free penne or zoodles for those looking to switch things up.

Serve with Roasted Vegetables

• Seasoned Roasted Broccoli: Toss broccoli florets with olive oil and seasonings before roasting until crispy.
• Mixed Roasted Veggies: Combine bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots for a colorful side packed with nutrients.

How to Perfect Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo

Achieving the perfect dairy free chicken alfredo is all about technique and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out wonderfully creamy and flavorful.

• Use Quality Chicken Broth: A rich broth will enhance the flavor of your sauce significantly.
• Whisk Continuously: When adding the heavy cream and broth, whisk continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you cook, adding salt or seasonings gradually until you reach your desired flavor profile.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente pasta so it holds its shape well when tossed with the sauce.
• Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley at the end provides an aromatic finish.
• Experiment with Cream Alternatives: Different brands of dairy free heavy cream may yield varying results; find one that works best for you.

Best Side Dishes for Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo

Complementing your dairy free chicken alfredo with the right side dishes can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes made with dairy free butter provide comfort alongside your pasta dish.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus sprinkled with lemon juice makes for a bright and nutritious side.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add texture and flavor contrast to your meal.
4. Quinoa Salad: A chilled quinoa salad mixed with vegetables offers a healthy grain option that’s full of protein.
5. Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): Lightly sautéed zoodles can serve as an alternative pasta option that’s both trendy and tasty.
6. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, and dairy free mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze make an appealing appetizer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to properly season the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always coat your chicken with seasonings before cooking for a more flavorful dish.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta longer than recommended can result in a mushy texture. Follow the package instructions carefully for al dente pasta.
• Not reserving pasta water: Forgetting to save some pasta water means missing out on a great way to adjust the sauce consistency. Always set aside a little before draining.
• Using too much flour: Adding excess gluten-free flour can make the sauce too thick or gritty. Measure carefully and add gradually as needed.
• Rushing the sauce: Not allowing enough time for the sauce to simmer can lead to a less rich flavor. Let it cook while whisking regularly until it reaches your desired creaminess.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over low-medium heat with a splash of reserved pasta water, stirring until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo:

What can I use as a dairy-free alternative?

You can use dairy free heavy cream and dairy free parmesan cheese as substitutes for traditional cream and cheese in this recipe.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free farfalle and gluten-free 1:1 flour to ensure this Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo is completely gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables to my Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo?

Absolutely! You can customize your dish by adding other vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms along with spinach.

How long does it take to prepare Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo?

The entire process takes approximately 25 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

This Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, making it an excellent choice for family dinners. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. Try this recipe today for a comforting dish that everyone will enjoy!