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Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta


  • Author: majestyrecipes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Healthy

Description

A quick and flavorful weeknight meal featuring whole wheat pasta, tender chicken, and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce that is healthier and packed with nutritional goodness.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 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)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta, cooking it according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Season and Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken, sprinkling with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Sauté until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
  3. Build the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the chicken and mix through to create a roux.
  4. Add Greek Yogurt and Cheese: Slowly pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring until the sauce is smooth. Reduce the heat and stir in the Greek yogurt and freshly grated Parmesan cheese until creamy.
  5. Combine and Finish: Add the cooked pasta and baby spinach to the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything in the luscious sauce.
  6. Serve Hot: Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped parsley, ensuring every bowl is visually appealing and enticing.

Notes

For a lovely plate, twirl the pasta using a fork and spoon, then elegantly place it in the center. This dish pairs beautifully with a glass of chilled white wine.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: garlic chicken pasta, healthy pasta, quick weeknight meal, family dinner, creamy pasta