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Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for Guilt-Free Comfort

This Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a nourishing comfort dish featuring tender chicken and whole wheat pasta in a creamy garlic sauce.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course dinner
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 plates
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • - Large pot
  • - Skillet
  • Whisk

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta

  • 8 ounces Whole Wheat Pasta Swap for gluten-free pasta if needed.

For the Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Avocado oil is a great alternative.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Always use fresh garlic for best taste.
  • 2 tablespoons Whole Wheat Flour Cornstarch can replace it for gluten-free option.
  • 1 cup Low-Sodium Chicken Broth Vegetable broth works for vegetarian version.
  • 1 cup Low-Fat Milk Unsweetened almond milk is suitable for dairy-free.
  • 1 cup Plain Non-Fat Greek Yogurt Low-fat sour cream is a good substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Always use fresh for best results.

For the Protein

  • 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves time.

Seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika gives a deeper flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning A mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme will do.
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Adjust to your liking.

For the Finishing Touches

  • 2 cups Baby Spinach Kale can be a good swap.
  • 2 tablespoons Chopped Fresh Parsley Adds a fresh garnish.

Instructions
 

How to Make Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

  • In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook whole wheat pasta according to package directions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Remember to reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining!
  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned cubed chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add minced garlic and whole wheat flour; stir to combine. Gradually whisk in low-sodium chicken broth and low-fat milk, simmering until the mixture thickens, about 2–3 minutes.
  • Lower the heat and stir in plain non-fat Greek yogurt and freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth. Return the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat everything evenly. If using, add baby spinach and stir until just wilted.
  • Portion the pasta onto plates, garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, and serve immediately for a comforting meal!

Notes

Ensure the Greek yogurt doesn’t reach boiling point to prevent curdling in the sauce. Prepare a double batch for easy meal prep solutions.
Keyword easy dinner, Guilt-Free Comfort, Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, high protein, Nutritious Meal, Whole Wheat Pasta