Why Make This Recipe
Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delicious meal that combines lean protein, whole grains, and fresh vegetables. It’s easy to prepare and offers a great balance of flavors without being heavy. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or for impressing guests with your cooking skills. Plus, it’s a healthier take on classic pasta dishes, keeping you satisfied and guilt-free.
How to Make Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Making Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is simple and straightforward. Follow these easy steps to whip up a delicious meal in no time.
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)
Directions:
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Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Season and Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic, cooking until fragrant. Add cubed chicken breasts, sprinkle with paprika and Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
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Build the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: Once the chicken is cooked, sprinkle the whole wheat flour over the chicken and stir to combine. Slowly pour in the chicken broth and low-fat milk, stirring continuously. Bring this to a gentle simmer to allow the sauce to thicken.
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Add Greek Yogurt and Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the Greek yogurt and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
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Combine and Finish: Add the cooked pasta and baby spinach (if using) into the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined and the spinach is wilted.
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Serve Hot: Transfer to serving plates and sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish.
How to Serve Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Serve this dish hot, straight from the skillet. It’s best enjoyed warm and can be accompanied by a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
How to Store Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
To store leftovers, place the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Tips to Make Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
- Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrition.
- Adjust seasoning according to your preference; a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
- If you want a creamier sauce, add more Greek yogurt or cheese.
Variation
For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. The recipe can still be made creamy with Greek yogurt and Parmesan.
FAQs
Q: Can I use regular pasta instead of whole wheat?
A: Yes, you can use regular pasta, but whole wheat pasta is healthier and adds more fiber.
Q: Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?
A: Yes, you can replace Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
Q: How can I make this dish spicy?
A: You can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the chicken while cooking for a nice heat in your dish.
Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic, cooking until fragrant.
- Add cubed chicken breasts, sprinkle with paprika and Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Once the chicken is cooked, sprinkle the whole wheat flour over the chicken and stir to combine.
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth and low-fat milk, stirring continuously. Bring this to a gentle simmer to allow the sauce to thicken.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the Greek yogurt and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta and baby spinach (if using) into the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined and the spinach is wilted.
- Transfer to serving plates and sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish.
