Creamy Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo is a rich, comforting pasta dish made without cream, butter, or cheese. This delightful meal is perfect for families and couples alike. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or just want a quick weeknight meal, this recipe has you covered. With tender chicken and a silky non-dairy sauce, it’s hard to believe this dish is dairy-free. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this delicious meal in under 30 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Dairy Free Chicken
This dairy-free creamy chicken dish offers numerous benefits that make it a must-try. First, it’s quick and easy — ready in just 30 minutes! Second, it’s packed with protein, making it a filling choice. Third, the use of plant-based milk keeps it light, yet satisfying. Additionally, it’s a versatile recipe where you can add your favorite vegetables such as broccoli or spinach. Plus, this vegan creamy chicken recipe is perfect for those avoiding dairy, making it suitable for a variety of diets. Lastly, it’s an affordable meal option, using simple ingredients you likely already have at home!
Ingredients for Creamy Dairy Free Chicken
Gather these items:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or dairy-free butter
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp arrowroot starch or cornstarch
- 1¾ cups unsweetened almond milk (or oat/cashew milk)
- 3 tbsp nutritional yeast
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)
- 8 oz fettuccine, spaghetti, or gluten-free pasta
- Broccoli, mushrooms, spinach, or kale
- Red pepper flakes
How to Make Creamy Dairy Free Chicken Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Season chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and slice.
- Step 3: In the same skillet, add olive oil or dairy-free butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Whisk in starch, then slowly add plant milk while whisking.
- Step 4: Stir in nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper. Simmer on low 4–5 minutes until creamy. Add lemon juice if using.
- Step 5: Add pasta and sliced chicken back to skillet and toss to coat evenly.
- Step 6: Garnish with herbs or red pepper flakes and serve warm.
Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Dairy Free Chicken
Keep these in mind:
- For extra creaminess, consider adding a splash of your favorite non-dairy creamy chicken options like cashew cream.
- Use a mix of vegetables for added nutrition and flavor. Broccoli and spinach are excellent choices.
- Don’t skip the nutritional yeast; it adds a rich, cheesy flavor that enhances the dish.
- This recipe can be modified easily for a healthy dairy-free creamy chicken casserole by baking it with extra veggies and a crunchy topping.
Best Ways to Serve Creamy Dairy Free Chicken
There are many delicious ways to enjoy your creamy chicken without dairy. Serve it over your favorite pasta or alongside a fresh salad for a light meal. You can also enjoy it as a hearty filling for wraps or sandwiches. Additionally, consider pairing it with garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired dinner.
How to Store and Reheat Creamy Dairy Free Chicken
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish is best enjoyed within 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. This makes it perfect for meal prep!
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Dairy Free Chicken
What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Dairy Free Chicken?
The secret lies in balancing flavors and ensuring the sauce simmers long enough to thicken. Using quality ingredients like nutritional yeast and fresh garlic can significantly enhance the dish’s overall taste.
Can I make Creamy Dairy Free Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then combine them with pasta just before serving. This is a great time-saver for busy weeknights!
How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Dairy Free Chicken?
Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry. Also, make sure to whisk the sauce well to prevent clumps from forming. Following the steps closely will ensure a smooth and creamy result.
Variations of Creamy Dairy Free Chicken You Can Try
There are many ways to switch up this recipe to keep things exciting! You could try a creamy coconut chicken recipe by replacing almond milk with coconut milk for a tropical twist. Another option is to make a creamy cashew chicken recipe by blending soaked cashews into the sauce for even more creaminess. Lastly, experiment with different pasta shapes or add spices to create your unique version of this delicious dish.
Creamy Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo: 30-Minute Delight
Creamy Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo is a rich, comforting pasta dish made without cream, butter, or cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or dairy-free butter
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp arrowroot starch or cornstarch
- 1¾ cups unsweetened almond milk (or oat/cashew milk)
- 3 tbsp nutritional yeast
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)
- 8 oz fettuccine, spaghetti, or gluten-free pasta
- Broccoli, mushrooms, spinach, or kale
- Red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Season chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and slice.
- In the same skillet, add olive oil or dairy-free butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Whisk in starch, then slowly add plant milk while whisking.
- Stir in nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper. Simmer on low 4–5 minutes until creamy. Add lemon juice if using.
- Add pasta and sliced chicken back to skillet and toss to coat evenly.
- Garnish with herbs or red pepper flakes and serve warm.
Notes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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