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Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

A lightened version of classic garlic Parmesan chicken pasta made with whole wheat pasta, lean chicken, and a creamy sauce using Greek yogurt.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course, Meal Prep
Cuisine: American, Healthy
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz whole wheat penne or fettuccine
For the Chicken
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed A lean protein source
  • 2 tbsp olive oil Divided for cooking
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic preferred
  • 1/2 tsp paprika Adds flavor
  • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
For the Sauce
  • 1 tbsp whole wheat flour Thickens the sauce
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth Ensure low sodium for healthier option
  • 1/2 cup low-fat milk (1% or 2%)
  • 1/2 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt Adds creaminess and protein
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Divided for mixing and garnishing
For Garnishing
  • 2 cups baby spinach (optional but recommended)
  • Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Method
 

Cook the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and the whole wheat pasta. Cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside. Toss with a small drizzle of olive oil to keep it from sticking.
Season and Cook the Chicken
  1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the cubed chicken with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the hot skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Build the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
  1. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and minced garlic. Cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle the whole wheat flour over the garlic and stir for one minute to cook the flour. Slowly whisk in the low-sodium chicken broth and low-fat milk until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Add Greek Yogurt and Cheese
  1. Lower the heat to low and stir in the plain non-fat Greek yogurt and half of the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce is smooth. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.
Combine and Finish
  1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add baby spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts. Add the cooked pasta and toss until the noodles are coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it. Stir in the remaining Parmesan.
Serve Hot
  1. Plate the pasta and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

If freezing, slightly undercook the pasta to prevent it from becoming too soft after thawing. Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days in the refrigerator.