Description
A wholesome and flavorful Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, featuring whole wheat pasta, tender sautéed chicken, and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce enriched with Greek yogurt and fresh baby spinach. This easy one-pan meal is perfect for a balanced weeknight dinner that combines lean protein, whole grains, and veggies.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz whole wheat penne or fettuccine
Chicken and Seasonings
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 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
Vegetables and Garnish
- 2 cups baby spinach (optional but recommended)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook 8 oz whole wheat penne or fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set it aside while preparing the rest of the dish.
- Season and Sauté the Chicken: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken along with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook the chicken until it is browned on the outside and cooked through inside, approximately 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Build the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: Add the minced garlic and whole wheat flour to the skillet with the chicken, stirring to coat. Slowly pour in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth and 1/2 cup of low-fat milk while stirring continuously. Allow the mixture to simmer gently until the sauce thickens slightly, forming a creamy base.
- Add Greek Yogurt and Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in 1/2 cup of plain non-fat Greek yogurt and 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy, taking care not to boil the yogurt to prevent curdling.
- Combine and Finish: Add the cooked pasta and 2 cups of baby spinach to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce and the spinach has wilted.
- Serve Hot: Garnish the finished dish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
- Non-fat Greek yogurt adds creaminess while keeping the dish healthy.
- Do not boil the sauce after adding Greek yogurt to avoid curdling.
- Baby spinach is optional but highly recommended for added vitamins.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste.
Keywords: Healthy garlic parmesan chicken pasta, whole wheat pasta recipe, low-fat chicken dinner, creamy garlic chicken pasta, Greek yogurt pasta sauce