Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo Recipe

Introduction

This Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo Recipe transforms weeknight dinner into a cozy, restaurant worthy meal without any dairy. Tender, paprika kissed chicken meets a silky, creamy dairy free sauce that clings to gluten free farfalle for bite after bite satisfaction. It cooks up quickly, making it perfect for busy evenings or a simple date night at home. If you enjoy bold chicken flavors, you might also like this chicken bulgogi recipe for another fast dinner idea.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This recipe balances speed and comfort by using pantry friendly ingredients and a simple dairy free heavy cream that creates a rich sauce without dairy. The seasoning on the chicken gives a warm smoky note while Italian seasonings in the sauce add classic Alfredo familiarity. Using gluten free farfalle keeps the texture lively so each forkful showcases sauce, greens, and seared chicken. It is flexible too so you can swap in other quick greens or gluten free pastas without losing the charm. For a cozy casserole twist with similar family friendly appeal try this ultimate chicken wild rice casserole.

Flavor and Texture

The sweet smoked paprika and oregano create a savory, slightly smoky crust on the chicken that contrasts the creaminess of the sauce. The dairy free parmesan adds a tangy, savory finish while the dairy free heavy cream gives body and a glossy sheen. Spinach melts into the sauce adding color, nutrients, and a soft vegetal lift that keeps the dish from feeling too heavy. The farfalle pockets catch sauce in their folds for satisfying bites and the reserved pasta water helps you reach the ideal, clingy consistency. Overall the plate is comforting, balanced, and visually inviting.

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

Step by Step Instructions

1. Boil the gluten-free farfalle in a large pot of salted water according to package directions until al dente.
2. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water.
3. In a small bowl, combine the diced chicken breast with sweet smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, black pepper, and salt and toss thoroughly to coat evenly.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add the seasoned chicken.
5. Sear the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
7. In the same skillet, melt the dairy free butter over medium heat and add minced onion, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt and sauté for about one minute.
8. Sprinkle the gluten free 1:1 flour into the skillet and stir well, scraping the bottom to incorporate and avoid lumps.
9. Slowly whisk in chicken broth and dairy free heavy cream, then stir in chopped spinach and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
10. Add shredded dairy free parmesan to the sauce, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce reaches your preferred thickness.
11. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time if the sauce is too thick.
12. Return the seared chicken to the skillet and gently stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
13. Serve immediately and enjoy your dairy free chicken Alfredo.

Tips for Best Results

Trim and dice the chicken uniformly so pieces cook evenly and quickly. Reserve a little pasta water before draining because those starchy tablespoons are the secret to a glossy, clingy sauce. Use low heat when melting dairy free parmesan into the sauce and stir constantly to prevent graininess. Taste and adjust salt after the parmesan goes in since many dairy free cheeses vary in saltiness. For extra freshness finish with a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper.

Storage and Make Ahead

Cool completely before storing in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to bring the sauce back to life. You can cook the chicken ahead and keep it separate from the pasta and sauce to preserve texture. Freezing is not recommended for best sauce quality, but cooked chicken freezes well on its own.

Final Thought

This Dairy Free Chicken Alfredo Recipe proves that comfort food can be adapted without sacrificing flavor or texture. It is quick enough for weeknights yet pretty enough for a casual dinner party. Simple swaps and small adjustments let you personalize the dish while keeping it reliably creamy and satisfying.

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