This healthy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta combines whole wheat pasta, lean chicken, and creamy yogurt sauce for a quick and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Author:Julia Royale
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:Serves 4
Category:Main Course
Method:Sautéed
Cuisine:American
Diet:Gluten-Free Option
Ingredients
Scale
8 oz whole wheat penne or fettuccine
2 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves
minced
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
cubed
Salt and black pepper
to taste
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)
Fresh parsley
chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add cubed chicken breasts to the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook until chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
Sprinkle whole wheat flour over the chicken, stirring to coat and cook for 1 minute.
Gradually add low-sodium chicken broth and low-fat milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
Remove skillet from heat and stir in Greek yogurt and freshly grated Parmesan cheese until creamy.
Add cooked pasta and baby spinach to the skillet; toss to combine and wilt the spinach.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
For extra creaminess, add a splash of milk as needed
Baby spinach is optional but recommended for added nutrition and color