Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is one of those comforting dishes that feels indulgent yet is packed with nutrition. As a busy parent and food lover, I’ve found this recipe to be a lifesaver on weeknights when time is of the essence, but I still want to serve something delicious and wholesome. The combination of tender chicken, garlic, and creamy Parmesan sauce is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

You might wonder what sets this recipe apart amid a sea of pasta dishes. First and foremost, this Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a fantastic balance between flavor and healthiness. With whole wheat pasta, lean chicken, and Greek yogurt, you’re not only satisfying your cravings but also nourishing your body. It’s budget-friendly, making it perfect for families or anyone looking to eat well without breaking the bank. Plus, it comes together in about 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner.

“Absolutely delicious! This is now my go-to pasta recipe on busy evenings. The kids loved it!” – Happy Home Cook

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Preparing Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is simple and intuitive, making it a great option even for beginner cooks. Here’s what you can expect: you’ll start with cooking the pasta, then season and cook the chicken. After building a flavorful garlic Parmesan sauce, you’ll combine it all for a satisfying meal. This method ensures that each bite is bursting with flavor and creamy goodness.

Gather Your Ingredients

To whip up this delightful dish, you’ll need 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 adjust some ingredients based on personal preference, like using different pasta shapes or adding more veggies.

New Ebook

🍰 30 Easy No-Bake Desserts

A delicious collection of no-bake treats you can make anytime, including:

• ✨ Chocolate lovers’ dreams – fudgy bars, truffles & mousse
• 🍓 Fruity delights – creamy parfaits, lemon & mango desserts
• 🥜 Nutty & indulgent – peanut butter & pistachio bites
• 🍋 Citrus & refreshing – lemon, orange creamsicle & key lime
• 🍪 Classic favorites – icebox cakes & cookie dough cups

👉 Get the Ebook

Instant digital download • Secure checkout via Gumroad

Cooking Steps

1. Begin by cooking your pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside when done.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, cooking until fragrant, about a minute.
3. Season the cubed chicken with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, around 5-7 minutes.
4. Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of whole wheat flour, stirring to combine. Gradually add the chicken broth, ensuring the mixture is smooth.
5. Pour in the low-fat milk. Let it simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in the Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese, mixing until creamy. If using, add the baby spinach and stir until wilted.
7. Finally, combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Best Way to Serve

When it comes to serving your Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, consider adding a sprinkle of additional Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil for an extra layer of richness. Pair it with a side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing touch. Crusty wholegrain bread also complements the dish beautifully, perfect for scooping up that creamy sauce!

Storage Tips

Storing your pasta dish is a breeze! Allow the leftovers to cool completely before transferring them into an airtight container. This Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta can be safely refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to revive its creaminess. If you want to make it ahead, you can freeze the cooked pasta in a sealed container for up to 3 months—just be sure to let it thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Pro Chef Tips

1. Cook Your Pasta Al Dente: Since you’ll be mixing it with the sauce, cooking it slightly less will prevent it from becoming mushy.
2. Adjust Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, simply add extra chicken broth or milk until it reaches your desired creaminess.
3. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley can elevate the flavor profile immensely when added just before serving.

Creative Twists

Want to mix things up? Here are some fun variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or grilled zucchini.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes for heat.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to change the flavor profile.

Your questions answered

How long does this recipe take to prepare?

Preparation and cooking time is typically around 30 minutes, making it a quick meal option.

Can I substitute Greek yogurt?

Yes, you can use sour cream or a dairy-free alternative, but be mindful that it may change the flavor slightly.

How do I store leftovers safely?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Always reheat thoroughly before consuming.

Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta not only satisfies your cravings but also keeps health in check—perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers! Bring this vibrant dish to your table, and watch everyone enjoy every last bite.

Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

---

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

Pin Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A comforting, nutritious pasta dish featuring tender chicken, garlic, and creamy Parmesan sauce that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

---

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)

---

Instructions

1. Cook your pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Season the chicken with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then add to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Sprinkle in the flour and stir to combine, then gradually add the chicken broth, mixing until smooth.
5. Pour in the low-fat milk and let it simmer for a few minutes until thickened.
6. Stir in the Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until creamy, then add baby spinach if using and stir until wilted.
7. Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

For best results, cook pasta al dente and adjust sauce consistency with chicken broth or milk as needed.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

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