Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
A beautifully balanced dish combining pasta with lean chicken and fresh greens in a creamy garlic and Parmesan sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Healthy
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)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season and cook chicken until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about a minute. Stir in flour to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, simmering until thickened.
- Remove from heat and mix in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until creamy.
- Return chicken and pasta to the skillet, add spinach, and toss until coated in sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
For a richer sauce, use cream instead of Greek yogurt. To make it lighter, swap pasta with zucchini noodles.