Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the comforting flavors of garlic and cheese with wholesome ingredients. The first time I made it, my family gathered around the table, and the familiar scent of garlic wafted through the air, evoking a sense of warmth and home. This recipe is a fantastic option for busy weeknights yet special enough for weekend family dinners. It’s nutritious, satisfying, and bursting with flavor—a dish you’ll find yourself turning to time and again.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
When it comes to weeknight meals, this Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta checks all the boxes. It’s quick, delicious, and packed with wholesome ingredients, making it the perfect solution for busy families. Plus, with the mild garlic and creamy Parmesan cheese, it’s sure to win over picky eaters. Imagine a hearty plate of pasta that comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for that post-work energy boost or a casual gathering with friends.
"This recipe has become a staple in our household! It’s so creamy and flavorful, without the guilt. My kids can’t get enough!" – A happy home cook
Step-by-Step Overview
Making this pasta dish is a breeze. You’ll start by cooking the whole wheat pasta to al dente perfection. In a skillet, you’ll sauté garlic and chicken, then create a creamy sauce with the garlic, broth, and milk—finishing it all off with Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese. Finally, toss in the cooked pasta and some spinach for an added nutritional boost. It’s as simple as that!
What You’ll Need
Gather these items to create your delicious meal:
- 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)
For added flavor, feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or swap in different vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers.
Directions to Follow
Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add the whole wheat penne or fettuccine and cook until al dente, following package directions. Drain and set aside.
Season and Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the cubed chicken, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes.
Build the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: Sprinkle whole wheat flour over the cooked chicken, stirring to coat. Gradually pour in chicken broth and low-fat milk, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
Add Greek Yogurt and Cheese: Reduce the heat and mix in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until creamy and blended well.
Combine and Finish: Fold in the cooked pasta and baby spinach if desired, stirring until the spinach wilts slightly and everything is well coated.
Serve Hot: Plate your delicious, garlicky pasta and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve your Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with a side of crusty whole grain bread for a comforting meal. For a light contrast, pair it with a refreshing garden salad dressed with olive oil and lemon. And if you’re looking for drinks, a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon would complement this dish beautifully.
How to Store
To keep your leftovers fresh, store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. When reheating, it’s best to warm it up on the stovetop with a splash of low-fat milk to revive its creamy texture.
Tricks for Success
Here are some pro tips to elevate your dish:
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor—avoid pre-grated versions if possible.
- Don’t skip the Greek yogurt; it adds creaminess without extra fat and loads of protein.
- For extra veggies, sneak in sliced bell peppers or mushrooms during the chicken cooking step.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta! Consider adding:
- Cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a burst of color and flavor.
- A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Swap the chicken for shrimp or make it vegetarian by using chickpeas instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the prep time for this dish?
Prep time is about 10 minutes, with a total cooking time of around 20 minutes. So, you can have dinner on the table in about half an hour!
Can I use whole wheat pasta alternatives?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pasta or any of your favorite pasta types if you prefer.
How should I reheat leftovers?
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, adding a bit of chicken broth or milk to maintain the creamy texture. You can also microwave it, but add a splash of liquid to prevent it from drying out.
Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
A delightful pasta dish combining garlic and cheese with wholesome ingredients, perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Healthy
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)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add the whole wheat penne or fettuccine and cook until al dente, following package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Season and Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the cubed chicken, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Build the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: Sprinkle whole wheat flour over the cooked chicken, stirring to coat. Gradually pour in chicken broth and low-fat milk, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Greek Yogurt and Cheese: Reduce the heat and mix in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until creamy and blended well.
- Combine and Finish: Fold in the cooked pasta and baby spinach if desired, stirring until the spinach wilts slightly and everything is well coated.
- Serve Hot: Plate your delicious, garlicky pasta and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Don’t skip the Greek yogurt for creaminess without extra fat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 55mg