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Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

A light and comforting pasta dish made with whole wheat pasta, lean chicken, and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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. Cook the pasta: Bring salted water to a boil, add pasta, and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Season and cook the chicken: Toss cubed chicken with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil and brown chicken in batches until cooked. Remove from pan.
  3. Build the garlic Parmesan sauce: Sauté minced garlic briefly, stir in whole wheat flour, then whisk in chicken broth and milk until smooth.
  4. Add Greek yogurt and cheese: Remove pan from heat, stir in Greek yogurt and Parmesan to make a creamy sauce.
  5. Combine and finish: Return chicken to the sauce, add spinach and cooked pasta, toss until coated and spinach wilts.
  6. Serve hot: Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if you like.

Notes

Serve with lemon wedges and a side salad for freshness. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days.

Nutrition