Go Back
+ servings
Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Light Comfort Food Delight

Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, guilt-free dish that satisfies your cravings with wholesome ingredients.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Whole Wheat Pasta substitute with gluten-free pasta if desired
For the Chicken
  • 1 lb Chicken Breast can swap with tofu for a vegetarian option
For the Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil avocado oil is a suitable alternative
  • 3 cloves Garlic fresh minced
  • 2 tbsp Whole Wheat Flour using other flours may alter the texture
  • 1 cup Low-Fat Milk almond milk can replace it for a dairy-free version
  • 1 cup Greek Yogurt non-dairy yogurt works for vegans
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese using fresh grated will elevate the dish
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth vegetable broth works for a vegetarian twist
For Added Nutrition
  • 2 cups Spinach optional, substitute with kale or arugula for variety

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Whisk

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken breast, seasoned with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.
  3. In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed and toss in minced garlic. Sauté garlic for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Sprinkle the whole wheat flour into the skillet with the garlic, stirring continuously to form a roux. Cook for about 30 seconds.
  5. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and low-fat milk until smooth. Simmer over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
  6. Reduce heat to low and stir in Greek yogurt and grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Add reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
  7. Bring back the sautéed chicken and drained pasta into the skillet, folding gently. If using spinach, toss it in now to wilt slightly.
  8. Serve immediately on warm plates, garnishing with parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 38gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Add spinach at the end to retain its color and nutrients. Adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!