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Healthy garlic parmesan chicken pasta dish served in a bowl

Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

A creamy, flavorful dish made with whole wheat pasta, chicken, garlic, and topped with Parmesan cheese, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
  • 8 oz whole wheat penne or fettuccine Choose your preferred type of pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil For sautéing the chicken
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the flavor of the sauce
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed Lean protein for the dish
  • 1/2 tsp paprika Adds depth of flavor
  • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning A blend of herbs for added flavor
  • 1 tbsp whole wheat flour Used to thicken the sauce
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth For building the sauce
  • 1/2 cup low-fat milk (1% or 2%) Adds creaminess
  • 1/2 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt For a creamy texture and tang
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Brings richness to the sauce
  • 2 cups baby spinach Optional but recommended for added nutrition
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste For seasoning
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Adds color and freshness

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cooking the Chicken
  1. In the same pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cubed chicken, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned outside and thoroughly cooked inside.
Making the Sauce
  1. Add minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 1 minute. Stir in flour and mix well, then pour in chicken broth and milk, stirring until combined.
  2. Lower the heat and add Greek yogurt and Parmesan, stirring until creamy and smooth.
Finishing the Dish
  1. Toss the pasta in the sauce, adding spinach until it wilts. Give it a good stir!
  2. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days in the fridge; can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave.