Healthy Chicken Alla Vodka Recipe

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Additional Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded thin
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup vodka
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or low-fat milk)
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooked whole wheat pasta, for serving (optional)

Steps to Cook:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them until they are about 1/4 inch thick.
   • Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.

2. Cook the Chicken:

   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
   • Add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

3. Make the Vodka Sauce:

   • In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until translucent.
   • Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, until fragrant.
   • Carefully pour in the vodka and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
   • Allow the vodka to simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly reduced.
   • Add the crushed tomatoes and unsweetened almond milk (or low-fat milk). Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
   • Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

4. Finish the Dish:

   • Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet with the vodka sauce.
   • Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese and chopped basil over the top.
   • Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the cheese is melted.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Serve the chicken alla vodka over cooked whole wheat pasta, if desired.
   • Garnish with additional chopped basil, if desired.

Cook’s Note:

• For a creamier sauce, you can add an extra 1/4 cup of unsweetened almond milk (or low-fat milk) to the vodka sauce.
• If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a splash of chicken broth or water.
• This dish can be served with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete and healthy meal.
• Leftover chicken alla vodka can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

This healthy version of the classic Chicken Alla Vodka recipe uses unsweetened almond milk (or low-fat milk) instead of heavy cream, reducing the overall fat and calorie content. The dish still maintains the rich, creamy texture and tantalizing flavors of the original, but with a healthier twist. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying meal without the guilt!