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Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for Guilt-Free Indulgence

A creamy, high-protein dish that's quick to prepare, satisfying comfort food cravings without guilt.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Pasta
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Whole Wheat Pasta
For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Breast Cubed
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 4 cloves Garlic Minced
  • 2 tablespoons Whole Wheat Flour
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Preferably low-sodium
  • 1 cup Low-Fat Milk
  • 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt Or plain yogurt as substitute
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Grated
Optional Ingredients
  • 1 cup Spinach Or substitute with kale
  • 2 tablespoons Parsley Chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining and setting the pasta aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken breast seasoned with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5–6 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from skillet.
  3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add more olive oil if needed. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Stir in 2 tablespoons of whole wheat flour to create a light roux with the garlic, cooking for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of chicken broth until smooth.
  5. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of low-fat milk, cooking on low heat for 2–3 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and mix in 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt.
  6. Return to low heat, add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Adjust sauce thickness with reserved pasta water if needed.
  7. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce. Gently fold in the cooked pasta and spinach if using.
  8. Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 6gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Ensure to not brown the garlic to avoid bitterness and whisk constantly for a smooth sauce.

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