Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (Print-Friendly Version)
Wholesome chicken pasta with garlic, spinach, and Parmesan, ready in 25 minutes for a flavorful, satisfying dish.
# Ingredients List:
→ Pasta
01 -
225 grams whole wheat penne or fettuccine
→ Protein
02 -
450 grams boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
→ Aromatics and Herbs
03 -
3 garlic cloves, finely minced
04 -
0.5 teaspoon paprika
05 -
0.5 teaspoon Italian seasoning
06 -
Salt, to taste
07 -
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
08 -
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
→ Sauce Components
09 -
2 tablespoons olive oil
10 -
1 tablespoon whole wheat flour
11 -
240 milliliters low-sodium chicken broth
12 -
120 milliliters low-fat milk (1% or 2%)
13 -
120 grams plain non-fat Greek yogurt
14 -
50 grams freshly grated Parmesan cheese
→ Vegetables
15 -
60 grams baby spinach leaves (optional but recommended)
# How to Make It:
01 -
Boil whole wheat pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
02 -
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and fully cooked.
03 -
Add minced garlic and whole wheat flour to the skillet. Stir continuously for 30 seconds. Gradually pour in chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly to incorporate. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
04 -
Reduce heat to low. Add Greek yogurt and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until cheese melts completely and sauce is creamy and smooth.
05 -
Add cooked pasta and baby spinach to the skillet. Toss gently, allowing the spinach to wilt and pasta to be fully coated with sauce.
06 -
Transfer to serving plates. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.
# Extra Tips:
01 -
Any short pasta such as rotini or farfalle can be used if preferred. For additional fiber and protein, opt for high-protein or whole wheat pasta varieties.
02 -
Leftover or rotisserie chicken offers a convenient substitute for cooking chicken from scratch.
03 -
If the sauce thickens excessively, incorporate 15–30 milliliters reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is achieved.
04 -
Using Greek yogurt provides a creamy consistency with reduced calories compared to heavy cream.
05 -
Store leftovers in an airtight container under refrigeration for up to three days. Add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to restore creaminess.