Description
This Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and nutritious meal combining whole wheat pasta, tender chicken, and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce enhanced with Greek yogurt and spinach. It’s a wholesome dish perfect for a balanced dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz whole wheat penne or fettuccine
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 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
Vegetables and Garnish
- 2 cups baby spinach (optional but recommended)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook 8 oz whole wheat penne or fettuccine according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Season and Sauté the Chicken: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes.
- Build the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: Add minced garlic and whole wheat flour to the skillet, stirring well. Slowly pour in chicken broth and milk, stirring continuously. Simmer the mixture until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add Greek Yogurt and Cheese: Reduce heat to low. Stir in the Greek yogurt and freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine and Finish: Add the cooked pasta and baby spinach to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in sauce and the spinach wilts.
- Serve Hot: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately for the best flavor.
Notes
- Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
- Baby spinach is optional but adds color and extra vitamins.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste.
- Substitute Greek yogurt with low-fat sour cream if preferred.
- For a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer before adding yogurt and cheese.
Keywords: Healthy garlic parmesan chicken pasta, whole wheat pasta recipe, low-fat chicken pasta, creamy garlic chicken pasta, quick healthy dinner