Description
This Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo recipe delivers a creamy and comforting pasta dish made without any dairy ingredients. Perfect for those with dietary restrictions or looking for a delicious gluten-free, dairy-free meal, it features tender seared chicken breast combined with a rich, flavorful Alfredo sauce made from dairy-free butter, heavy cream, and parmesan alternatives. Spinach adds freshness and a nutrient boost, while gluten-free farfalle pasta rounds out this hearty dish.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 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
Pasta
- 12 oz gluten-free farfalle
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)
Instructions
- Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gluten-free farfalle according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving some pasta water, and set aside.
- Season Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the diced chicken breast with sweet smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, black pepper, and salt. Toss thoroughly to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Sear Chicken: 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 the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is fully cooked. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Start Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the dairy free butter over medium heat. Add the minced onion, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. Simmer for about one minute to release the flavors.
- Add Flour: Sprinkle the gluten free 1:1 flour into the skillet and stir continuously, scraping the bottom to combine and form a roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
- Add Liquids and Spinach: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and dairy free heavy cream. Add the chopped spinach and continue whisking. Simmer the sauce for 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes rich and creamy.
- Add Parmesan: Stir in the shredded dairy free parmesan cheese and cook until completely melted. Continue to cook the sauce, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired thickness.
- Toss Pasta: Add the drained pasta back to the skillet with the sauce and toss well to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add about a tablespoon of reserved pasta water to thin it out to your liking.
- Add Chicken: Return the seared chicken to the skillet and gently stir to combine and coat everything with the creamy Alfredo sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy your dairy free chicken Alfredo!
Notes
- Use gluten-free pasta to keep the dish gluten-free.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
- Adjust pasta water quantity as needed to achieve preferred sauce consistency.
- Substitute dairy free parmesan with nutritional yeast for a different flavor if desired.
- Spinach adds freshness and color; you may omit or substitute with kale if preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American