Written by Cheri Jauregui
Modified & Updated: 06 Mar 2024
Reviewed by Jessica Corbett
Chicken Alfredo pasta is a popular and indulgent dish that combines tender chicken with creamy sauce and al dente pasta. It is a go-to option for Italian food lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike. But while it may be delicious, it’s important to understand the nutrition facts and the impact it can have on your diet.
In this article, we will delve into the 18 chicken Alfredo pasta nutrition facts that you should be aware of. From the calorie count to the protein content and the essential vitamins and minerals it provides, we will uncover the nutritional profile of this beloved dish. Whether you’re trying to maintain a balanced diet or making informed choices about your food, knowing the nutritional information of your favorite dishes is key.
So, let’s take a closer look at the nutrition facts of chicken Alfredo pasta and discover how you can enjoy it as part of a healthy eating plan.
Key Takeaways:
- Indulging in chicken alfredo pasta means consuming a calorie-dense meal with high fat and sodium content, but it also provides essential nutrients like protein, calcium, and iron for your body’s needs.
- While chicken alfredo pasta may not be a significant source of fiber and certain vitamins, it still offers a variety of essential nutrients like protein, iron, and B vitamins that contribute to overall health and well-being.
Calories
One serving of chicken alfredo pasta contains approximately 600 calories, making it a calorie-dense meal option.
Protein
A serving of chicken alfredo pasta provides around 30 grams of protein, contributing to muscle growth and repair.
Fat Content
Chicken alfredo pasta is rich in fat, with each serving containing about 40 grams of total fat. This includes both saturated and unsaturated fats.
Carbohydrates
The pasta in chicken alfredo contributes to the carbohydrate content, with approximately 50 grams of carbs per serving.
Sodium
Chicken alfredo pasta tends to be high in sodium, with one serving containing around 900 milligrams of sodium. This is an important consideration for individuals with high blood pressure.
Calcium
Chicken alfredo pasta can be a source of calcium, providing about 20% of the daily recommended intake per serving. Calcium is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
Iron
A serving of chicken alfredo pasta offers approximately 15% of the daily recommended intake of iron. Iron is important for the production of red blood cells and oxygen transportation.
Vitamin A
Chicken alfredo pasta contains a moderate amount of vitamin A, contributing to eye health and immune function.
Vitamin C
While chicken alfredo pasta is not particularly high in vitamin C, it still provides a small amount of this essential nutrient with each serving.
Dietary Fiber
Chicken alfredo pasta is not a significant source of dietary fiber, with only a few grams per serving. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet is important for digestive health.
Vitamin B12
Chicken alfredo pasta contains a small amount of vitamin B12, which is important for nerve function and the production of DNA.
Potassium
One serving of chicken alfredo pasta provides a moderate amount of potassium, an important mineral for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.
Vitamin D
Chicken alfredo pasta does not naturally contain vitamin D. It is essential to obtain vitamin D through other dietary sources or sunlight exposure.
Zinc
Chicken alfredo pasta contains a small amount of zinc, which plays a role in immune function, wound healing, and cell division.
B Vitamins
Chicken alfredo pasta provides various B vitamins, including thiamin, riboflavin, and niacin, which are involved in energy production and metabolism.
Phosphorus
Phosphorus is present in chicken alfredo pasta, contributing to bone health and the synthesis of DNA and RNA.
Magnesium
Chicken alfredo pasta contains a small amount of magnesium, which is involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body.
Selenium
One serving of chicken alfredo pasta provides a small amount of selenium, an essential mineral that acts as an antioxidant and supports thyroid function.
Conclusion
In conclusion, chicken Alfredo pasta is a delicious and popular dish that can be enjoyed by many. However, it is important to be mindful of its nutritional information and to consume it in moderation. With its high calorie and fat content, it is advisable to pair it with lighter sides or incorporate more vegetables to make it a well-balanced meal. By being aware of the nutrition facts of chicken Alfredo pasta, one can make informed choices and still enjoy this indulgent dish as part of a healthy diet.
FAQs
Q: Is chicken Alfredo pasta high in calories?
A: Yes, chicken Alfredo pasta is generally high in calories due to the combination of pasta, creamy sauce, and chicken. It is important to watch portion sizes and consume it in moderation.
Q: Can I make chicken Alfredo pasta healthier?
A: Definitely! There are several ways to make chicken Alfredo pasta healthier. You can swap regular pasta with whole wheat or shirataki noodles, use reduced-fat or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream, and add more vegetables like broccoli or spinach to increase the nutritional value.
Q: Can I substitute chicken with another protein source in chicken Alfredo pasta?
A: Absolutely! Chicken can be substituted with other protein sources like grilled shrimp, tofu, or even lean turkey. This allows for variety and caters to different dietary preferences or needs.
Q: Is chicken Alfredo pasta suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
A: It depends on the dietary restrictions. Chicken Alfredo pasta contains gluten and dairy due to the pasta and creamy sauce. However, there are gluten-free and dairy-free alternatives available in stores or you can try making your own using alternative ingredients.
Q: Are there any potential allergens in chicken Alfredo pasta?
A: Yes, chicken Alfredo pasta contains common allergens such as gluten, dairy, and eggs. It is important to read labels and be cautious if you have any specific allergies or intolerances.
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