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Dairy-Free Chicken Alfredo Recipe

4.6 from 134 reviews

This Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo is a creamy, comforting dish that offers a delicious twist on the classic Alfredo by using dairy-free alternatives. It features tender, seasoned chicken and gluten-free farfalle pasta enveloped in a rich, dairy-free Alfredo sauce made with dairy-free butter, cream, and parmesan. Enhanced with fresh spinach and Italian herbs, this recipe is perfect for those seeking a flavorful gluten-free and dairy-free meal without sacrificing classic taste.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken

  • 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

For the Pasta and Sauce

  • 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 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

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the diced chicken breast with sweet smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to evenly coat all pieces.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Boil the gluten-free farfalle according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 2 tablespoons of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the dairy free butter and add the minced onion. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet with the onions and cook thoroughly until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and has a lightly browned exterior, about 6-8 minutes.
  5. Make the Sauce Base: Sprinkle the gluten-free 1:1 flour over the cooked chicken and onions, stirring to coat and cook out raw flour taste for about 1-2 minutes.
  6. Add Seasonings and Liquids: Stir in Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, chicken broth, and dairy free heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly to thicken the sauce.
  7. Add Spinach and Cheese: Mix in the chopped spinach and dairy free shredded parmesan. Stir until spinach wilts and cheese is melted, creating a creamy sauce.
  8. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked farfalle pasta to the skillet and toss gently to combine with the sauce. Use reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
  9. Serve: Once everything is heated through and well combined, remove from heat and serve warm.

Notes

  • Use gluten-free farfalle or your preferred gluten-free pasta to keep this dish gluten free.
  • The choice of dairy-free butter, cream, and parmesan cheese is key to maintaining the creamy texture while keeping it dairy free.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt, as dairy-free cheeses can vary in saltiness.
  • Reserve pasta water helps to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
  • Spinach adds color and a nutritional boost but can be substituted with kale or other greens.

Keywords: dairy free chicken alfredo, gluten free chicken alfredo, dairy free pasta recipe, gluten free alfredo sauce, healthy chicken alfredo, dairy free creamy pasta