Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug, you’ve landed in the right spot. This Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo recipe is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Creamy, rich, and oh-so-satisfying, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet delicious or for family gatherings where everyone will be asking for seconds.

What makes this dish truly special is its ability to bring people together around the dinner table. The combination of tender chicken, gluten-free pasta, and creamy sauce makes it a go-to meal for anyone who loves pasta but wants to keep it dairy-free. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-friendly: With its creamy texture and flavorful chicken, even picky eaters will ask for more!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat and cook the pasta when you’re ready to eat.
• Versatile flavors: Customize with your favorite veggies or spices to make this dish uniquely yours.
• Comforting goodness: Who can resist a bowl of creamy pasta? It’s pure comfort food that warms the soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

In this section, we’ll gather some simple and wholesome ingredients that make up our Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo. You don’t need anything fancy—just a few pantry staples and fresh produce to create a comforting meal!

• 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 pasta
• 4 tablespoon dairy-free butter
• 2 tablespoon minced onion
• 2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 ⅔ tablespoon gluten-free 1:1 flour (all-purpose blend)
• 2 cups dairy-free heavy cream
• 2 cups chopped spinach
• 8 oz shredded dairy-free parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoon reserved pasta water, as needed

Variations

One of the best things about this Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo is how flexible it can be! Feel free to play with different ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: If you’re not feeling chicken today, try shrimp or tofu for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some broccoli or bell peppers to pack even more nutrients into your meal.
• Change up the pasta: Use any gluten-free pasta you like! Penne or fettuccine works beautifully too.
• Spice it up: For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce to the sauce.

How to Make Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Start by boiling the gluten-free farfalle pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package directions until al dente. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked pasta forms the base of our dish. Once done, drain it and set aside while reserving two tablespoons of that starchy pasta water—trust me; you’ll want it later!

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine diced chicken with sweet smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, black pepper, and salt. Toss everything together until well coated. This step infuses flavor into every bite of chicken.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the seasoned chicken and sear for about three to four minutes on each side until fully cooked and golden brown (you want that tasty caramelization!). Once cooked through (with an internal temperature of at least 165°F), transfer the chicken to a plate while keeping all those lovely juices in the skillet.

Step 4: Create the Sauce Base

In that same skillet, melt dairy-free butter over medium heat. Add minced onion along with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. Simmer for about one minute until fragrant—this brings out all those wonderful flavors from your aromatics!

Step 5: Thicken with Flour

Sprinkle gluten-free flour into the skillet and stir well while scraping up any bits stuck at the bottom (those are flavor gold!). This helps thicken our sauce later on.

Step 6: Add Broth and Cream

Pour in chicken broth followed by dairy-free heavy cream. Whisk everything together until smooth before adding chopped spinach. Simmer gently for three to four minutes while stirring often so that our sauce becomes rich and creamy—oh yes!

Step 7: Melt in Cheese

Stir shredded dairy-free parmesan cheese into your bubbling sauce until fully melted. Continue simmering until it reaches your desired thickness; it’s like magic watching everything come together.

Step 8: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Add cooked pasta directly into that creamy goodness! Toss gently so every piece is coated beautifully with sauce—and remember if it’s too thick for your liking, add reserved pasta water gradually until it’s just right.

Step 9: Finish with Chicken

Return that perfectly cooked chicken back into the pan along with all its juices from earlier; give everything another gentle stir to combine well. Serve warm and enjoy every bite as you dive into this comforting bowl of Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo!

Pro Tips for Making Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo

Creating the perfect Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo is all about attention to detail and a little love! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out creamy and delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables can enhance the flavor of your dish significantly. Opt for fresh spinach over frozen to avoid excess moisture, which can dilute the sauce.

• Don’t Rush the Chicken: Make sure to sear the chicken properly to achieve that golden-brown color. This adds depth of flavor and makes it more visually appealing.

• Adjust the Thickness: If your sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. This helps maintain creaminess without compromising flavor.

• Experiment with Cheese Alternatives: Different brands of dairy-free parmesan can vary in taste and meltability. Try a few to find your favorite that best mimics traditional cheese!

• Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauce while cooking! Adjust seasonings as needed, whether it’s adding a pinch more salt or an extra sprinkle of garlic powder for that extra punch.

How to Serve Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo

Serving your Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo beautifully will make it even more enjoyable! Here are some ideas on how to present this delectable dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that balances the richness of the sauce.

• Dairy-Free Parmesan: For an extra cheesy touch, garnish with additional shredded dairy-free parmesan on top just before serving.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crisp, buttery garlic bread is a classic pairing that complements the creamy pasta perfectly. It’s great for soaking up any leftover sauce!

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli not only adds vibrant color but also provides a nutritious crunch that pairs well with the creamy texture of the Alfredo.

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta dish.

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus bring earthy flavors and additional nutrients to balance out your meal beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your delightful Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo is not only a delight to prepare but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• This dish will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• To keep the pasta from absorbing too much sauce, consider storing the chicken and pasta separately if possible.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy tracking!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water or broth to loosen the sauce as needed.
• Microwave reheating is also an option; cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe.

Can I make Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo without gluten?

Absolutely! This recipe already uses gluten-free farfalle pasta and flour. Make sure all your ingredients are labeled gluten-free for a completely safe dish.

What can I substitute for dairy-free heavy cream in Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo?

You can use canned coconut milk or a homemade cashew cream as alternatives. Both options will help achieve that creamy texture without dairy!

How long does Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo last in the fridge?

When stored properly, it should last about 3-4 days when refrigerated in an airtight container.

Can I use other vegetables in my Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

Is this Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo kid-friendly?

Definitely! Its creamy texture and comforting flavors make it a hit with kids while being dairy-free and wholesome.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo! It’s a comforting, creamy dish that brings everyone together around the table. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or just for yourself, it’s sure to be a favorite. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience with me—I’d love to hear how it turns out!