Healthy Penne Vodka with Chicken: Your Ultimate 21 Day Fix & Gluten-Free Recipe
Craving a rich and creamy pasta dish without derailing your healthy eating goals? This Healthy Penne Vodka Sauce with Chicken recipe is not just one of my all-time FAVORITE 21 Day Fix Meals, but it’s also a huge hit with my husband – and he’s my toughest food critic! This incredible vodka sauce recipe is designed to be gluten-free and includes a fantastic dairy-free option, making it accessible for even more dietary needs. Get ready to indulge in a dish that tastes decadent but is surprisingly light and nourishing.
**This post was originally published on August 25, 2015, and has been a staple in our household ever since. We’ve recently revisited it, taking new photos and perfecting the dairy-free option, so I am thrilled to share this updated and even more delicious version with you today!
Why This Healthy Penne Vodka Sauce is a Game Changer
Confession #50 – I whipped up this Healthy Penne Vodka with Chicken dinner last week, and days later, it’s still occupying prime real estate in my thoughts. I even shared the recipe with my cousin, and when she made it last night, I experienced a moment of irrational jealousy. Yes, it was *that* good. I honestly can’t stop thinking about the creamy, tangy, and utterly satisfying flavors.
Even my husband, who can sometimes be my toughest critic – quick to point out if a healthy dish “tastes healthy” when it shouldn’t – was a huge fan. After dinner, I literally found him in the kitchen, scraping every last drop of sauce out of the pan with his spoon. Given that vodka sauce is one of his favorite meals, his seal of approval, calling it “legit,” truly means a lot.
The Secret to a Creamy, Healthy Vodka Sauce: Smart Swaps
The magic behind this lightened-up vodka sauce lies in a few simple, yet brilliant substitutions. Instead of traditional heavy cream, I use plain Greek yogurt. My husband claims to dislike plain Greek yogurt, yet he devoured this dish, proving you can sneak in healthy ingredients without sacrificing flavor. Greek yogurt adds a wonderful tang and protein boost, while also providing that essential creaminess we all love in a vodka sauce.
For those avoiding dairy, I’ve successfully tested this recipe with full-fat coconut milk, and let me tell you, guys… it’s absolutely ridiculous in the best way possible! So, if you’re dairy-free, you can still wholeheartedly enjoy this incredible dinner. Sometimes, for an extra boost of creamy power and a richer flavor profile, I even combine both Greek yogurt AND coconut milk – it’s a game-changer!
Another smart swap is using turkey bacon instead of pancetta or prosciutto. It still delivers that delicious savory, smoky depth to the sauce but with significantly less fat. Even with these skinny substitutions, the sauce remains incredibly creamy, perfectly tangy, and oh-so-savory – a true testament to healthy eating not having to be boring or bland.
Come to momma!
Crafting Your Healthy Penne Vodka with Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making this healthy penne vodka with chicken is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these steps for a perfect meal every time:
How to Make Healthy Penne Vodka with Chicken
First, chop your nitrate-free turkey bacon into small bits. Sauté it in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s beautifully crispy and browned. This step renders out some fat and gives the bacon a delightful crunch. Once done, remove the bacon bits from the pan, leaving a small amount of the rendered fat behind for flavor (or add a teaspoon of olive oil if needed).
Next, add olive oil (if not enough bacon fat remains) to the pan and toss in your diced red onions. Cook them for a few minutes until they soften and become translucent, releasing their sweet aroma. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for just another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Now, pour in the can of crushed tomatoes, along with a sprinkle of salt, red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), and the dried herbs (basil and oregano). Stir in the cooked turkey bacon and the vodka. The vodka plays a crucial role here; it helps to release and enhance the complex flavors of the tomatoes, and don’t worry, the alcohol will cook off during simmering. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about ten minutes on medium-low heat. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Finally, stir in the plain Greek yogurt (or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option, or a combination of both for ultimate creaminess) and the Parmesan cheese. If you’re going dairy-free, use a high-quality dairy-free Parmesan substitute like Violife. Stir everything until well combined and continue to cook for a few more minutes. You’ll notice the sauce will transform into a lovely, slightly pinkish hue, characteristic of classic vodka sauce, but with a lighter, healthier twist.
To serve, plate your cooked gluten-free penne pasta (or zoodles for a low-carb alternative). Add your pre-cooked chicken – whether baked, grilled, or pan-fried, cut into bite-sized pieces – then generously top with your homemade healthy vodka sauce. Finish with a little extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese (dairy or dairy-free) for that perfect final touch!
Tips for Success & Variations
- Spice Level: The red pepper flakes are optional. Add them to taste, or leave them out if you prefer a milder sauce. You can always add a pinch to individual servings if some prefer more heat.
- Protein Power: While chicken is fantastic, feel free to experiment with other proteins. Sautéed shrimp, lean ground turkey, or even Italian chicken sausage would be delicious additions. For a plant-based option, consider chickpeas or a plant-based chicken substitute.
- Veggie Boost: Increase your vegetable intake by stirring in fresh spinach, sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even a handful of finely chopped zucchini during the last few minutes of simmering.
- Gluten-Free Pasta: When choosing gluten-free penne, look for varieties made from brown rice, corn, or quinoa for a great texture. Alternatively, zucchini noodles (zoodles) are an excellent low-carb, vegetable-packed substitute.
- Meal Prep Friendly: The vodka sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cook the pasta and chicken fresh for the best results, or store them separately to combine later.
- Freezing Instructions: The sauce itself freezes beautifully! Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick.
If you make this Healthy Penne Vodka pasta, let me know!
I promise to keep my emotions in check, unlike when my cousin made it! I truly love hearing your feedback and seeing your creations.
Want more Healthy Pasta Recipes? Check these out!
- 21 Day Fix Pumpkin Pasta with Spicy Sausage
- Healthy Instant Pot Baked Ziti
- Instant Pot Sausage Broccoli Pasta
- Spinach and Sausage Lasagna Roll Ups
- How to Measure Pasta for the 21 Day Fix + 21 Day Fix Pasta Recipes
Healthy Penne Vodka with Chicken
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 slices turkey bacon nitrate-free
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium red onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup + 1 tablespoon of vodka be sure it’s gluten free if you need
- 4 tablespoons 2% plain Greek yogurt or sub 1/3 cup full fat coconut milk
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese and more for topping for dairy free, sub Violife or another dairy free parm
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
- 2 teaspoon dried oregano flakes
- Sprinkle salt
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes or more to taste (this is optional…feel free to leave out or add at the end to taste)
- 1 lb boneless chicken breasts baked or grilled and cut into bite sized pieces
- gluten free Penne Pasta or Zoodles
Instructions
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Chop turkey bacon into bits and sautee until brown. Remove from pan, leaving a small amount of rendered fat or adding 1 tsp olive oil.
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Add remaining olive oil to pan and diced onions. Cook for a few minutes until they begin to soften, then add garlic. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add can of crushed tomatoes to the pan, as well salt, red pepper (if using), and the herbs. Stir in bacon and vodka. Simmer for ten minutes on medium low heat, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Add in Greek yogurt or coconut milk (or both) and Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine and cook for a few more minutes until the sauce turns slightly more pinkish and creamy.
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Plate your cooked penne pasta – 1/2 cup per serving (or sub zoodles for low carb), add 3/4 cup of chicken, then top with 1/4 of the sauce (about 2/3 cup). Add a bit more Parmesan on top for serving!
Notes
WW (Weight Watchers): 6 points (per serving) [Calculated using 2% plain Greek yogurt, and whole wheat penne pasta. Points may vary slightly based on specific ingredients and app updates.]
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions about Healthy Penne Vodka with Chicken
Can I make this vodka sauce without vodka?
Yes, you can! While vodka helps to extract and enhance the subtle flavors of the tomato, you can omit it. The sauce will still be delicious and flavorful due to the other ingredients. You can substitute it with a splash of vegetable broth or even water, though the flavor profile might be slightly less complex.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Absolutely! The vodka sauce is fantastic for meal prep. You can make a larger batch and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply reheat the sauce and combine with freshly cooked gluten-free penne or zoodles and pre-cooked chicken. This makes for a quick and easy weeknight dinner!
What are some other protein options I can use?
This healthy vodka sauce is incredibly versatile! Besides chicken, you could try grilled or sautéed shrimp for a seafood twist, lean ground turkey or beef, or even Italian chicken sausage. For a vegetarian option, consider adding white beans, chickpeas, or a plant-based protein alternative.
How can I adjust the spice level?
The recipe includes 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, which gives a subtle warmth. If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to increase the amount to 1/2 teaspoon or even more, to taste. For a milder sauce, you can simply omit the red pepper flakes entirely. You can also add them to individual servings if family members have different spice preferences.
Is the dairy-free option truly dairy-free if I use Parmesan cheese?
No, traditional Parmesan cheese contains dairy. If you are following a strict dairy-free diet, it’s crucial to use a high-quality dairy-free Parmesan alternative. Brands like Violife offer excellent dairy-free Parmesan shreds or blocks that melt and taste very similar to the real thing, ensuring your meal remains entirely dairy-free while still delivering that cheesy flavor.
Conclusion: A Healthy Meal You’ll Crave
This Healthy Penne Vodka Sauce with Chicken truly proves that wholesome eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. It’s a hearty, comforting dish that aligns perfectly with health-conscious lifestyles like the 21 Day Fix and Weight Watchers, and it’s easily adaptable for gluten-free and dairy-free diets. The creamy texture, vibrant tomato base, and savory chicken come together in a symphony of flavors that will leave you feeling nourished and incredibly content.
So, go ahead, give this recipe a try. It might just become your new go-to healthy pasta dish. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself, or your significant other, scraping the pan clean with a spoon – it’s that good!