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Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Guilt-Free Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Delight

Indulge guilt-free in this Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta loaded with flavor, perfect for a post-workout meal!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 plates
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Whole Wheat Penne or Fettuccine Substitution: Any short pasta such as rotini or farfalle.
For the Chicken
  • 1 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, cubed Can use leftover or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Enhances sautéing and sauce richness.
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced Use fresh for best taste; avoid browning.
  • 1 tablespoon Whole Wheat Flour Thickening agent for the sauce.
  • 1 cup Low-Sodium Chicken Broth Builds the sauce base; keeps sodium levels lower.
  • 1/2 cup Low-Fat Milk Options include 1% or 2% milk.
  • 1/2 cup Plain Non-Fat Greek Yogurt Essential for the Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta.
  • 1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Use freshly grated for better melting and taste.
For Flavor Enhancements
  • 1/2 tsp Paprika Adds warmth and subtle color.
  • 1/2 tsp Italian Seasoning Herbal blend to enhance flavor profile.
  • Salt and Black Pepper Essential for flavor enhancement.
For Garnish and Extras
  • 2 cups Baby Spinach, optional Stir in right before serving to maintain freshness.
  • Fresh Parsley For garnish.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • large skillet
  • Measuring Cups
  • Measuring Spoons
  • whisk

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta; cook for about 8–10 minutes or until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/4 cup pasta water.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken, seasoning with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for 6–8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet.
  3. In the same skillet, add more olive oil if necessary, then add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds. Add whole wheat flour and stir to create a roux. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, stirring until sauce thickens (2–3 minutes).
  4. Reduce heat to low and mix in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Use reserved pasta water if the sauce feels too thick.
  5. Return cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. If using, add baby spinach. Toss until pasta is well coated and spinach is wilted (about 1 minute).
  6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 35gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 8gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Heat Greek yogurt gently to prevent curdling. Season chicken well for better flavor. Add spinach just before serving. Keep reserved pasta water handy to restore sauce consistency. Use freshly grated Parmesan for richer flavor.

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