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Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

A light and creamy pasta dish that combines lean chicken, whole wheat pasta, and a flavorful garlic Parmesan sauce.

Ingredients

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  • 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

  1. Boil a large pot of water, add a pinch of salt, and cook the whole wheat penne or fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Reduce the heat to low. Add the minced garlic and whole wheat flour to the skillet, stirring for about 1 minute.
  4. Slowly pour in the chicken broth and low-fat milk while stirring. Cook for a few minutes until the mixture is slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  5. Add the cooked pasta and any optional baby spinach into the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Transfer the pasta to serving plates and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Make sure to not overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook when combined with the sauce. Adjust garlic and cheese to taste.

Nutrition