Creamy Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta with Chicken Recipe for Dinner

If you want a rich, creamy pasta dinner that feels indulgent but uses simple, wholesome ingredients, this Cottage Cheese Alfredo with Chicken recipe is a perfect choice. It combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a smooth Alfredo sauce made with cottage cheese instead of heavy cream. This swap makes the sauce lighter while still delivering that classic creamy texture and cheesy flavor. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and serves six, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep.

Creamy Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta with Chicken, a comforting dinner dish

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this dish, gather the following:

• 8 oz pasta (protein pasta works great!)

• 1.5 lbs chicken breast, diced or sliced

• 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)

• 2 cups cottage cheese (2% or full fat for creaminess)

• ¾ cup grated parmesan cheese

• ¾ to 1 cup milk (adjust for sauce thickness)

• 3 cloves garlic

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• Optional: red pepper flakes, fresh parsley for garnish

  
  

These ingredients come together to create a balanced dish with protein from chicken and cottage cheese, carbs from pasta, and a flavorful sauce that’s both creamy and light.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling your pasta in salted water according to the package directions. This usually takes about 8 to 12 minutes depending on the type. Once cooked, reserve half a cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water will help adjust the sauce’s consistency later.

2. Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for 6 to 8 minutes until it’s browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

3. Blend the Alfredo Sauce

In a blender or food processor, combine:

• Cottage cheese

• Parmesan cheese

• Milk

• Garlic cloves

• Salt and pepper

  
  

Blend until the sauce is completely smooth. This step is key to achieving a creamy texture without lumps.

4. Warm the Sauce

Return to the pan and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Pour in the blended sauce and heat it over low to medium-low heat. Stir continuously for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Avoid boiling to keep the sauce smooth.

5. Combine Pasta and Chicken

Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the pan with the sauce. Stir well to coat everything evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up and make it silky.

6. Finish and Serve

Taste the dish and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or red pepper flakes for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.

Serves 8

Skillet with creamy cottage cheese Alfredo sauce coating pasta and chicken

Tips for the Best Cottage Cheese Alfredo Pasta

• Choose the right pasta shape: Penne, rotini, or fettuccine hold the sauce well. Avoid very thin pasta like angel hair as it may get lost in the sauce.

• Use full-fat cottage cheese: It creates a richer sauce. Low-fat versions can work but may be less creamy.

• Don’t skip blending: Blending the sauce ingredients ensures a smooth texture without lumps.

• Adjust milk quantity: Add more milk if you prefer a thinner sauce or less for a thicker coating.

• Reserve pasta water: This starchy water helps bind the sauce to the pasta and keeps it creamy.

• Season well: Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning bring out the flavors. Taste as you go.

  
  

Why Cottage Cheese Works in Alfredo Sauce

Traditional Alfredo sauce relies on heavy cream and butter for richness. Using cottage cheese cuts down on fat and calories while adding protein and creaminess. When blended, cottage cheese becomes silky and smooth, mimicking the texture of cream. Parmesan cheese adds the sharp, nutty flavor that makes Alfredo sauce so beloved.

This approach makes the dish lighter but still satisfying, perfect for those who want comfort food without heaviness.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy pasta pairs well with:

• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance richness

• Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus

• Garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up extra sauce

  
  

For a complete meal, add a simple side of sautéed spinach or a fresh tomato salad.

Final Thoughts

This Cottage Cheese Alfredo with Chicken recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy creamy pasta without relying on heavy cream. It’s straightforward to make, uses accessible ingredients, and serves a crowd. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.