Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta served in a bowl

why make this recipe

Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a terrific choice for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious meal without compromising on health. This recipe is not only packed with flavor but also includes nutritious ingredients like whole wheat pasta, lean chicken, and Greek yogurt. It’s a comforting dish that can easily become a family favorite while keeping calorie counts in check.

how to make Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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)

Directions:

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a pot of salted water and cooking the whole wheat penne or fettuccine according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.
Season and Cook the Chicken: In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken breasts and season them with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes.
Build the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle in the whole wheat flour and stir for another minute, allowing it to cook slightly.
Add Greek Yogurt and Cheese: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and low-fat milk, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer, then add the Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
Combine and Finish: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and mix well. If using, fold in the baby spinach until it wilts. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Serve Hot: Transfer to serving plates, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy your meal!

how to serve Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This dish is best served hot and can be accompanied by a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.

how to store Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm it in a pan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce becomes too thick.

tips to make Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in garlic and herbs before cooking.
If you like a bit of spice, consider adding red pepper flakes.
Feel free to substitute the spinach with other vegetables like broccoli or peas.

variation

You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by replacing the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas. Also, you can use different types of pasta, such as zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.

FAQs

Can I use regular pasta instead of whole wheat?

Yes, you can use regular pasta, but whole wheat is healthier and offers more fiber.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the Greek yogurt and Parmesan with dairy-free alternatives.

How long does this dish take to prepare?

This recipe takes about 30-40 minutes from start to finish, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner.