Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings creamy comfort to your table without the guilt. This recipe is a favorite in my household not just for its delicious flavors but also for the quick prep time. Ideal for busy weeknights, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients, providing a nutrition boost the whole family will appreciate. Whether you’re trying to stick to healthier eating habits or just want a hearty meal that doesn’t skimp on taste, this pasta dish fits the bill perfectly.

What Makes This Recipe Special

You’ll love this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for several reasons. First off, it’s quick and easy, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual family brunch. The inclusion of whole wheat pasta adds a nutritious twist, packing in more fiber and nutrients than traditional varieties. Plus, the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, made with Greek yogurt and low-fat milk, ensures you’re indulging without overdoing it.

“I made this for my family last night, and we all went back for seconds! The flavors were amazing, and I loved knowing it was a healthy option. Definitely adding it to our regular rotation!” – A Happy Home Cook

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Cooking this dish is both simple and satisfying. You’ll start by cooking the pasta, then move on to seasoning and cooking the chicken. As you prepare the garlic Parmesan sauce, everything comes together beautifully. Finally, you’ll combine it all for a creamy, comforting meal. Let’s break it down.

Gather Your Ingredients

To whip up this delicious dish, here’s what you’ll need:

• 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)

(Feel free to substitute chicken with your choice of protein or leave it out for a vegetarian version.)

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Cooking Steps

1. Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Season cubed chicken with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes).
4. Sprinkle whole wheat flour over the chicken and stir for about 1 minute.
5. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring, followed by the low-fat milk. Bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Lower the heat, mix in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Stir in the spinach until wilted.
7. Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, mixing thoroughly. Adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Tips for Serving

To elevate your Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, consider pairing it with a crisp side salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables or a warm crusty bread would complement the dish beautifully. For a little extra crunch, top your servings with some toasted pine nuts or a sprinkle more of Parmesan cheese.

Best Way to Store Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk if needed to loosen up the sauce. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months, making sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

Pro Chef Tips

For the best results, slice your chicken into uniformly sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Always taste as you go; adjusting seasoning at different stages can make a big difference. Experiment with the garlic – adding more can enhance the flavor but be cautious not to overpower the dish.

Creative Twists

Feel free to customize this recipe! You could add in some sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor, or toss in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. If you’re looking for a lighter option, substitute the chicken with shrimp or chickpeas for a meat-free adaptation.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a busy weeknight meal.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or any plant-based protein of your choice.

How should I reheat leftovers?

Gently reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the pasta appears dry. Avoid microwaving excessively to keep the creamy texture intact.

Now that you have all the details, it’s time to bring this Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta to your kitchen table! Enjoy the nourishing goodness with your family tonight.

Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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

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Description

A creamy and comforting chicken pasta dish that is healthy and packed with flavor, perfect for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Season cubed chicken with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes).
4. Sprinkle whole wheat flour over the chicken and stir for about 1 minute.
5. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring, followed by the low-fat milk. Bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Lower the heat, mix in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Stir in the spinach until wilted.
7. Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, mixing thoroughly. Adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

To elevate the dish, pair with a side salad or roasted vegetables. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: garlic pasta, healthy chicken pasta, quick dinner recipe