Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
This Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines whole wheat pasta, tender chicken, and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. It’s a satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
- Author: Maya
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Healthy
Pasta:
- 8 oz whole wheat penne or fettuccine
Chicken:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 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)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, save about 1/4 cup of the pasta water. Drain and set aside.
- Season and Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet. Add cubed chicken, season, and cook until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
- Build the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, sauté garlic, add flour, then slowly whisk in broth and milk until thickened.
- Add Greek Yogurt and Cheese
Reduce heat, stir in yogurt, then add Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Combine and Finish
Return chicken to skillet, add pasta and spinach. Toss until coated in sauce.
- Serve Hot
Divide among plates, garnish with parsley and Parmesan. Serve hot.
Notes
- You can add additional vegetables like cherry tomatoes or broccoli for extra nutrition.
- For a spicier kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Healthy, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, Creamy Pasta Recipe