Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Welcome to a meal that combines comfort and nutrition all in one delightful bowl: Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. This dish showcases tender chicken, al dente whole wheat pasta, and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce that you’ll want to savor. It’s special not only for its rich flavors but also for its wholesome ingredients, proving that healthy eating doesn’t have to compromise on taste. Perfectly suited for family dinners or quick weeknight meals, this pasta is sure to impress both the picky eaters and the health-conscious among us.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want to indulge in a hearty meal without the guilt, this recipe will earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. The blend of fresh garlic and savory Parmesan creates an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen, making it a dish you’ll be proud to serve again and again!

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)

Gather your ingredients for a delicious and healthy meal.

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.

2. Season and Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken breasts, sprinkle with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Build the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Stir in the whole wheat flour and cook for another minute to eliminate the raw taste. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.

4. Add Greek Yogurt and Cheese: Reduce the heat and stir in the low-fat milk, Greek yogurt, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Add in more chicken broth if the sauce is too thick.

5. Combine and Finish: Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet, mixing until everything is well combined. If desired, add in baby spinach – it will wilt nicely from the heat.

6. Serve Hot: Serve the pasta warm, garnished with fresh parsley for an added touch. Enjoy your delicious and healthy creation!

Tips & Variations

• Ingredient substitutions: You can substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. Zucchini noodles can also be used instead of pasta for a low-carb alternative.
• Optional variations: Add sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts for a burst of flavor and color. You can also customize your veggies by including bell peppers or mushrooms.
• Storage or reheating tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce.

Recipe Information

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty level: Easy

An inviting bowl of Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, perfect for sharing.