Delicious & Healthy Light Chicken Alfredo with BeyondMeat Chicken-Free Strips: A Plant-Based Family Favorite
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of BeyondMeat. The thoughts and opinions expressed in this blog post are my own.
In our busy lives, finding a meal that is both delicious, healthy, and easy to prepare can often feel like an impossible task. We all strive to provide nourishing food for our families, but sometimes we get stuck in a rut with the same old recipes. What if you could enjoy a creamy, comforting Alfredo dish without the guilt, packed with plant-based protein and flavor that even the most dedicated meat-eaters would adore? Welcome to the world of Light Chicken Alfredo, made truly revolutionary with healthy BeyondMeat Chicken-Free Strips. This recipe isn’t just about cutting calories; it’s about embracing a vibrant, plant-forward lifestyle without compromising on taste or satisfaction. Plus, there’s a little surprise for you below!
Discovering the Power of Plant-Based Protein with BeyondMeat
My journey into seriously exploring plant-based alternatives began a few months ago, quite unexpectedly. I attended a wonderful fundraiser with my husband and our then 10-year-old son, an event focused on encouraging kids to be more active and involved in sports. The atmosphere was electric, with rooms full of incredible signed sports memorabilia – basketball jerseys, baseballs, hockey sticks, you name it – all up for auction. We even managed to bid on and win a few items, which was incredibly thrilling for my son.
Amidst all the excitement, before the main dinner and award ceremony, they had various booths offering snacks. One particular booth caught my eye: they were serving little slider sloppy joes. I’m always open to trying new things, so I decided to give them a shot. To my absolute astonishment, they were incredibly delicious! The savory flavor and satisfying texture immediately impressed me, and I couldn’t believe what I was tasting.
I soon learned that the “meat” inside these sliders was from a company called BeyondMeat. What truly blew me away was discovering that it wasn’t beef at all, but rather a revolutionary product made from pea protein. Yet, it mirrored the protein content of traditional beef, while boasting impressive health benefits: it was soy-free, gluten-free, and completely cholesterol-free. The taste was so authentic, so remarkably similar to ground beef, that it was almost unbelievable. I promptly grabbed a coupon for their products and made a mental note to introduce this game-changing alternative into our home cooking for my family.
Transforming Classic Dishes with BeyondMeat Chicken-Free Strips
That initial discovery sparked a new culinary adventure. Fast forward to today, and I’m thrilled to share one of our absolute favorite new dinners: a Light Chicken Alfredo featuring BeyondMeat Grilled Chicken-Free Strips. This dish is not just delicious; it’s a wholesome, vegetarian powerhouse, bursting with protein and even cleverly incorporating veggies right into the “chicken” strips themselves – a brilliant way to boost nutrition without anyone noticing! The texture is incredibly satisfying, mimicking traditional chicken strips perfectly, making it an ideal substitute for those looking to reduce their meat consumption or embrace a fully plant-based diet.
BeyondMeat’s Commitment to a Better Future
BeyondMeat isn’t just about creating amazing food; they’re driven by a profound mission to create sustainable, mass-market solutions that seamlessly replace animal protein with plant protein. Their dedication extends far beyond the plate, focusing on critical global issues. They are committed to:
- Improving Human Health: By offering products that are cholesterol-free, hormone-free, and often lower in saturated fat, BeyondMeat provides healthier alternatives for consumers.
- Positively Impacting Climate Change: Animal agriculture is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. By shifting towards plant-based proteins, BeyondMeat helps reduce our carbon footprint.
- Conserving Natural Resources: Producing plant-based protein typically requires significantly less land, water, and energy compared to raising livestock. This helps protect our planet’s precious resources.
- Respecting Animal Welfare: BeyondMeat provides a delicious option for those who choose to avoid animal products for ethical reasons, promoting a more humane food system.
The Nutritional Advantage of BeyondMeat Chicken-Free Strips
Let’s talk specifics about these incredible BeyondMeat Chicken-Free Strips. They are truly a marvel in plant-based innovation. Each serving (a generous 6 strips) delivers a substantial TWENTY grams of protein, making it an excellent source for muscle building and satiety. What’s even better? They contain only 120 calories per serving. These strips are 100% vegan, completely cholesterol-free, non-GMO, hormone-free, and gluten-free, catering to a wide range of dietary needs and preferences. It’s hard to imagine a healthier, more versatile protein option for your weeknight meals.
Combine these fantastic chicken-free strips with an unbelievably light homemade Alfredo sauce and your choice of lower-carb noodles, and you’ve got yourself a seriously impressive, guilt-free meal. This recipe proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor or comfort. The creamy Alfredo, usually a calorie-dense dish, is transformed into a lighter, yet equally satisfying, experience.
Where to Find BeyondMeat
Finding BeyondMeat products is becoming increasingly easy. I personally locate mine in the frozen food aisle of my regular grocery store, where I do my weekly shopping. You can use their store locator to find several locations near you. The widespread availability is a testament to the growing demand for sustainable and healthy plant-based options.
BeyondMeat’s Rise to Prominence
It’s not just home cooks like me who are excited about BeyondMeat. Did you know that notable investors like Bill Gates and Twitter co-founders Biz Stone & Evan Williams have backed this company? Their vision and commitment to innovation are truly inspiring. If you’re curious to learn more about their process, I highly recommend checking out BeyondMeat on The Today Show, where they showcased exactly how their products are made. You can also read about their impact and growth in the NY Times! This company is truly awesome, and I’m genuinely looking forward to witnessing their continued growth and innovation in the plant-based food industry.
Light Chicken Alfredo
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Ingredients
- 2 cups low-fat milk
- 1/3 cup 3 oz low fat cream cheese
- 2-3 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese use fresh parmesan or else it will clump up!
- 1 9-oz bag BeyondMeat Chicken-Free Strips
- 10 ounces linguine I like Dreamfield’s Healthy Carb Living
Instructions
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Begin by placing a large pot of water (approximately 4 quarts) on your stovetop. Bring it to a rolling boil, as this will be used to cook the linguine.
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In a blender, combine the low-fat milk, 3 oz of low-fat cream cheese, 2-3 tablespoons of flour, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Blend these ingredients until the mixture is perfectly smooth and lump-free. Set aside. Simultaneously, take your BeyondMeat Chicken-Free Strips out of the freezer and place them on a paper towel to begin thawing.
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Heat a non-stick saucepan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and allow it to melt. Once melted, add the 3 cloves of minced garlic. Stir and sauté for about 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic – it can quickly turn bitter.
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Pour the milk mixture from the blender into the saucepan with the garlic. Stir constantly with a whisk for approximately 3 to 4 minutes, or until the sauce just begins to simmer. Continue stirring as it cooks for another 6-7 minutes. The sauce will gradually thicken as it heats, creating that rich Alfredo consistency.
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While the sauce is thickening, add the linguine to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions until al dente. For the BeyondMeat strips, place them on a paper towel and microwave for about 40 seconds, or until they are heated through. Be cautious not to overcook them, as this can affect their texture.
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Once the Alfredo sauce has reached your desired thickness, remove the saucepan from the heat. Whisk in the 1 cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese immediately. Stir until fully incorporated, then cover the pan without delay. Allow the sauce to stand for 10 minutes before serving; it will continue to thicken as it rests. (A useful tip: if the sauce becomes too thick upon cooling, simply reheat it gently and add a splash of milk to restore its creamy texture!)
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To serve this delightful dish, arrange the cooked linguine pasta on individual plates. Top generously with the warmed BeyondMeat Chicken-Free Strips, and then drizzle a generous amount of the light Alfredo sauce over everything. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately and savor every healthy, delicious bite!
Notes
Nutrition
This Light Chicken Alfredo with BeyondMeat Chicken-Free Strips is a testament to how plant-based eating can be both easy and incredibly satisfying. It’s a meal that brings comfort food vibes without the heavy feeling, making it perfect for any night of the week. Embrace the deliciousness and the health benefits, and introduce your family to a meal they’ll request again and again.
Looking for more healthy meal ideas? Explore these wholesome and delicious recipes too:
Roasted Vegetable & Black Bean Tacos
For a vibrant and flavorful meal, these Roasted Vegetable & Black Bean Tacos are a fantastic choice. Packed with colorful, nutrient-dense vegetables and hearty black beans, they offer a satisfying crunch and a burst of fresh flavors. Top them with a creamy avocado crema for an extra layer of indulgence that still keeps things light and healthy. This recipe is an excellent option for a meatless Monday or any day you’re craving something fresh and fulfilling.
Avocado Chickpea Salad Sandwiches
Craving a light and refreshing lunch? Our Avocado Chickpea Salad Sandwiches are the answer. This delightful recipe takes simple smashed chickpeas and combines them with creamy avocado and a medley of fresh herbs to create a filling that is both healthy and incredibly satisfying. It’s a wonderful plant-based alternative to traditional chicken or tuna salad, perfect for a quick, wholesome meal on the go or a leisurely lunch at home.
Slow Cooker Turkey & Lentil Sloppy Joes
For a comforting, family-friendly meal with a healthy twist, look no further than these Slow Cooker Turkey & Lentil Sloppy Joes. This recipe ingeniously combines lean ground turkey with nutrient-rich lentils, slow-cooked to perfection in a savory, tangy sauce. It’s a cleaner, lighter take on a classic comfort food, ensuring your family enjoys all the nostalgic flavor without the guilt. Ideal for busy weeknights, just set it and forget it!