The Comfort of Garlic and Cheese
Imagine a dish that wraps you in a warm hug, filled with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and just the right amount of garlic. Sounds dreamy, right? This Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not just another dinner option; it’s a cozy, quick meal that packs a punch of flavor without the guilt. Honestly, who can resist the symphony of garlic melding with luscious parmesan?
Why Make This Recipe
You’ll fall head over heels for this pasta for a few reasons. First off, easy cleanup! It all happens in one pan—so you can spend less time scrubbing pots and more time enjoying your dinner. Plus, it won’t break the bank, making it an affordable yet delicious weeknight treat. And did I mention it’s family-friendly? Even the pickiest eaters won’t be able to resist!
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 8 oz whole wheat penne or fettuccine
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 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)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot, add the pasta, and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Season and Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook until chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Build the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Sprinkle whole wheat flour and stir until combined.
- Add Greek Yogurt and Cheese: Slowly pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and mix in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until creamy.
- Combine and Finish: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with baby spinach (if using). Stir until everything is coated and heated through.
- Serve Hot: Dish it out, top with fresh parsley, and enjoy the cozy vibes!
How to Make Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (Overview)
Making this pasta is a breeze, and here’s the best part: it only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish! Begin by boiling your pasta—don’t worry, it can hang out while you tend to the chicken. Once your chicken is golden brown, in goes the garlic for that aromatic touch. When creating the sauce, be sure to let it thicken up before adding the Greek yogurt and cheese for that rich, creamy goodness. Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic — it makes all the difference!
How to Serve Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
When serving this pasta, the options are endless! Pair it with a green salad for a crunch and splash of vibrant color. Picture it: rich, creamy pasta against fresh, colorful veggies—it’s a masterpiece on your dinner table. The aroma of garlic and parmesan will have your household gathering around the table faster than you can say "bon appétit"!
How to Store Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Leftovers? Yes, please! This dish stays good in the fridge for about 3-4 days – just make sure to keep it in an airtight container. If you want to freeze it, feel free! It can safely chill out for about 2-3 months in the freezer. When reheating, add a splash of milk to help restore its creamy texture.
Tips to Make Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Experiment with pasta types! You can easily swap whole wheat with zoodles for a lower-carb option.
- Want extra protein? Toss in some chickpeas or white beans.
- Make sure not to overcook your chicken; nobody wants dry chicken in their pasta, right?
Variation
Feel like giving this recipe a twist? Go vegan by substituting chicken with chickpeas, use almond milk, and swap yogurt and cheese for nutritional yeast. How’s that for delicious?
FAQs
Can I make this with gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Just select your favorite gluten-free pasta and follow the same cooking instructions.
How do I make this dish spicy?
Add a dash of red pepper flakes when seasoning the chicken for an extra kick.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes! Just prepare the components separately and combine them when you’re ready to serve. It’s as easy as that!
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Boil water in a large pot, add the pasta, and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook until chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Sprinkle whole wheat flour and stir until combined.
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and mix in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with baby spinach (if using). Stir until everything is coated and heated through.
- Dish it out, top with fresh parsley, and enjoy the cozy vibes!