Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this delightful Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta! This dish brings together hearty whole wheat pasta, succulent chicken, and a rich yet light garlic Parmesan sauce that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it also boasts nutritional benefits, making it a perfect choice for busy families or anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing taste.
What makes this dish truly special is its versatility and ease of preparation. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this pasta dish is sure to impress. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll whip up a meal that feels luxurious but stays within the boundaries of wholesome cooking. Readers will love how the creamy Greek yogurt melds with the Parmesan, creating a sauce that feels indulgent while still keeping things light and nutritious.
This is what the finished dish looks like when perfectly baked.
Ingredients
- 8 oz whole wheat penne or fettuccine
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp whole wheat flour
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup low-fat milk (1% or 2%)
- 1/2 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups baby spinach (optional but recommended)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation and ingredients laid out for your cooking journey.
Directions
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat penne or fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water for later use.
Season and Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken, season with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Build the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle in the whole wheat flour and stir to combine. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and low-fat milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens slightly.
Add Greek Yogurt and Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Greek yogurt and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until your desired consistency is reached.
Combine and Finish: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the cooked pasta and spinach. Gently toss everything together until well coated and the spinach wilts. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.
Serve Hot: Serve the pasta in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy the rich flavors and wholesome ingredients of your Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta!
Tips & Variations
- Ingredient substitutions: You can use any type of pasta, including gluten-free options, and chicken can be replaced with turkey or shrimp for a different protein.
- Optional variations: Add roasted vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients, or toss in sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of color and taste.
- Storage or reheating tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk to the skillet to loosen the sauce before warming over low heat.
Recipe Information
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty level: Easy
A warm and inviting bowl of Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, perfect for any occasion.