Description
This Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, protein-packed comfort meal made lighter with Greek yogurt, whole wheat pasta, and low-fat ingredients. A family-friendly dinner ready in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients
- 8 oz whole wheat penne or fettuccine
- 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)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add whole wheat pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set pasta aside.
2. While pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cubed chicken breast and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5–6 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining tablespoon olive oil. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant, without browning.
4. Sprinkle in whole wheat flour and stir to form a light roux. Cook for 30 seconds. Slowly whisk in chicken broth, then add milk and continue whisking until sauce thickens, about 2–3 minutes.
5. Reduce heat to low. Stir in Greek yogurt until fully incorporated. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted. Thin the sauce with reserved pasta water if needed.
6. Return chicken and any juices to the skillet. Add cooked pasta and spinach if using. Stir to combine until fully coated and spinach is wilted.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan for better flavor and texture.
Don’t let the Greek yogurt boil—gentle heat keeps the sauce smooth.
Seasoning the chicken is key for flavor throughout the dish.
Add spinach right before serving so it stays vibrant and lightly wilted.
This dish can be made ahead and reheats well for meal prep.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 440mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 85mg