Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

I still remember the first time I prepared Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta; the perfect balance of hearty chicken, vibrant flavors, and creamy sauce made it an instant favorite in my household. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent yet stays on the healthier side, thanks to the use of whole wheat pasta and Greek yogurt. Whether you’re whipping this up for a cozy weeknight dinner or looking to impress loved ones over the weekend, this recipe never disappoints. Let’s dive into why it deserves a spot in your recipe book.

Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. First off, it’s quick to assemble—perfect for those busy evenings when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Not only is it budget-friendly but it also makes use of wholesome ingredients, so you can feel good about serving it to your family. It’s a great way to sneak in some greens with the optional spinach, making it a well-rounded meal.

"This dish has become a staple in our home—quick, easy, and bursting with flavor! My kids ask for it every week." – Happy Home Cook

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Creating this delicious Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is straightforward and rewarding. By following these general steps, you’ll know exactly what to expect during the cooking process:

1. Cook the Pasta: Prepare your whole wheat penne or fettuccine according to the package instructions.
2. Season and Cook the Chicken: Cube the chicken breasts and season them well.
3. Build the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: Sauté garlic and then incorporate the flavor-rich elements.
4. Add Greek Yogurt and Cheese: Combine for a creamy consistency.
5. Combine and Finish: Bring everything together in one pot.
6. Serve Hot: Finish it off with a garnish for a lovely presentation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this vibrant dish, gather the following 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)

Feel free to swap in other pasta or dairy-free alternatives based on your dietary preferences!

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add cubed chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Sprinkle whole wheat flour over the chicken. Stir and cook for an additional minute.
5. Slowly pour in chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens slightly.
6. Lower the heat and stir in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until creamy and well combined.
7. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, along with the baby spinach if using. Mix until everything is heated through.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

Serving Ideas

For the perfect dining experience, consider these serving suggestions:

• Pair the dish with a crisp side salad drizzled in a light vinaigrette.
• Serve alongside garlic bread for a wholesome Italian feast.
• A glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, can beautifully complement the savory flavors of the pasta.

Best Way to Store Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! Here’s how to keep this dish fresh:

• Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain creaminess.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to two months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Pro Chef Tips

1. For extra flavor, marinate your chicken in olive oil, Italian seasoning, and garlic for a couple of hours before cooking.
2. Don’t overcook the pasta; it should have a slight bite to it (al dente) before mixing it with the sauce.
3. Always taste and adjust seasoning as you go. Sometimes, a pinch more salt or pepper can enhance everything beautifully.

Flavor Variations

Looking to get creative? Here are some variations to consider:

• Add roasted veggies like bell peppers and zucchini for more nutrients and flavors.
• Substitute chicken with shrimp or salmon for a completely different protein profile.
• For a creamier sauce, use full-fat Greek yogurt or even a splash of cream.

Your questions answered

1. How long does it take to make this dish?

   • Total preparation and cooking time is roughly 30 minutes, making it a quick weeknight meal.

2. Can I substitute Greek yogurt?

   • Yes! Sour cream or even dairy-free yogurt can work as alternatives, though taste and texture may vary slightly.

3. What if I want to make it dairy-free?

   • You can substitute the cheese with nutritional yeast and use a dairy-free milk alternative for a delicious vegan option.

Cooking Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is simple and rewarding. It’s a dish that not only satisfies but also offers a healthier take on comfort food. Enjoy the creamy richness without the guilt!

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 quick and healthy take on pasta, featuring hearty chicken, a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, and whole wheat noodles.

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

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add cubed chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Sprinkle whole wheat flour over the chicken. Stir and cook for an additional minute.
5. Pour in chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens slightly.
6. Lower the heat and stir in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until creamy and well combined.
7. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, along with the baby spinach if using. Mix until everything is heated through.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Freeze individual portions for up to two months.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: chicken pasta, healthy pasta, garlic parmesan chicken