Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delicious and nutritious meal that is simple to prepare. This dish combines whole wheat pasta with tender chicken and a rich garlic Parmesan sauce, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. If you’re looking for a satisfying meal that’s both tasty and healthy, this recipe is a great option. You might also enjoy similar recipes like Crockpot Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. It’s not just about the amazing flavor; this recipe is also packed with nutrients. Whole wheat pasta provides fiber, while the chicken offers lean protein. Adding spinach enhances the dish with vitamins and minerals. This recipe is versatile and can fit into various dietary preferences. You may also find Bacon Wrapped Garlic Parmesan Chicken useful.
How to Make Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
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)
Directions:
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Season and Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
Build the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the whole wheat flour and cook for another minute.
Add Greek Yogurt and Cheese: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk, cooking until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
Combine and Finish: Add the cooked pasta and spinach to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Allow the spinach to wilt slightly before serving.
Serve Hot: Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
How to Serve Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This dish is best enjoyed hot, straight from the skillet. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. For a rich flavor, you might also consider trying Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta as a side dish.
How to Store Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creaminess.
Tips to Make Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Adjust the Flavor: Feel free to add more garlic or different herbs to enhance the flavor.
- Make it Creamy: If you want a richer sauce, increase the amount of Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
Variation
You can substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for different protein options. This recipe can also be made without pasta, serving the sauce over steamed vegetables for a lower-carb meal.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular pasta instead of whole wheat?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, but whole wheat is healthier.
2. How can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can replace the Greek yogurt and cheese with dairy-free alternatives.
3. Can I freeze Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Yes, you can freeze the pasta. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container and consume it within 2-3 months.
Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 oz whole wheat penne or fettuccine
- 2 cups baby spinach optional but recommended
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- salt Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp whole wheat flour
Sauce Ingredients
- 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
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cooking Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the cubed chicken, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
Making the Sauce
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the whole wheat flour and cook for another minute.
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk, cooking until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
Combining
- Add the cooked pasta and spinach to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
- Allow the spinach to wilt slightly before serving.
Serving
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
