Why Make This Recipe
Dairy-free Chicken Alfredo is a delicious and comforting dish that allows everyone to enjoy the classic flavors without the dairy. Whether you are lactose intolerant, vegan, or just looking for a lighter version of your favorite creamy pasta, this recipe is perfect. The combination of tender chicken, gluten-free pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce will satisfy your cravings while being easy to make.
How to Make Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo
Ingredients:
- 1 ¼ lbs Chicken breast, diced small
- 1 ¾ teaspoon sweet smoked paprika
- 1 ½ teaspoon oregano
- 1 ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 12 oz gluten-free farfalle
- 4 tablespoon dairy-free butter
- 2 tablespoon minced onion
- 2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cup chicken broth
- 1 ⅔ tablespoon gluten-free 1:1 flour
- 2 cups dairy-free heavy cream
- 2 cups chopped spinach
- 8 oz dairy-free parmesan, shredded
- 2 tablespoon pasta water, as needed
Directions:
- Boil the gluten-free farfalle in a large pot of salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water.
- In a small bowl, combine the diced chicken breast with sweet smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, black pepper, and salt. Toss thoroughly to coat evenly.
- 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 and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, melt the dairy-free butter over medium heat. Add minced onion, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. Sauté and simmer the mixture for about one minute to release the flavors.
- Sprinkle gluten-free 1:1 flour into the skillet and stir well, scraping the bottom to incorporate and avoid lumps.
- Slowly whisk in chicken broth and dairy-free heavy cream. Stir in chopped spinach. Continue whisking and simmer the sauce for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens and becomes creamy.
- Add shredded dairy-free parmesan to the sauce, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted, and the sauce achieves your preferred thickness.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of reserved pasta water to thin it to the desired consistency.
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet and gently stir to combine all ingredients evenly. Serve immediately and enjoy your dairy-free Chicken Alfredo!
How to Serve Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo
Serve your Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo warm, garnished with extra dairy-free parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an added touch. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a full meal.
How to Store Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in a pot over low heat, adding a little dairy-free cream or broth to loosen the sauce if necessary.
Tips to Make Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo
- To ensure chicken cooks evenly, cut it into similar-sized pieces.
- For a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer; for a thinner sauce, add a little more pasta water.
- Experiment with different vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to add more flavor and nutrition.
Variation
You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the chicken with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can also replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a fully plant-based meal.
FAQs
Can I use regular pasta instead of gluten-free?
Yes, if you don’t need a gluten-free option, feel free to use regular pasta in this recipe.
Is there a substitute for dairy-free parmesan?
Yes, you can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or any store-bought dairy substitute that you like.
Can I freeze Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container, and it should last up to three months. However, the texture may change upon reheating.
