Description
This Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe is a delicious and creamy dish made with whole wheat pasta, tender chicken, spinach, and a flavorful yogurt-parmesan sauce. It’s a satisfying and nutritious meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta:
- 8 oz whole wheat penne or fettuccine
Chicken:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 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)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add whole wheat pasta and cook until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.
- Season and Cook the Chicken – Cook seasoned chicken in olive oil until golden and cooked through.
- Build the Garlic Parmesan Sauce – Make a roux with garlic, flour, then add broth and milk to thicken.
- Add Greek Yogurt and Cheese – Stir in yogurt and Parmesan until creamy.
- Combine and Finish – Toss chicken, pasta, and spinach in the sauce until coated.
- Serve Hot – Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Notes
- Heat yogurt gently to prevent curdling.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for better flavor and texture.
- Add spinach right before serving to retain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 365 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 78mg
Keywords: Healthy, Garlic Parmesan, Chicken Pasta, Creamy, Whole Wheat, Low Calorie
