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Healthy garlic parmesan chicken pasta with whole wheat noodles and fresh parsley garnish in white bowl

Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Creamy and cheesy chicken pasta made with Greek yogurt and low-fat milk instead of heavy cream. Ready in 30 minutes with lean protein and whole wheat pasta.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 430

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz whole wheat penne or fettuccine
  • 2 tbsp olive oil divided
  • 3 cloves garlic minced (about 1 tablespoon)
  • 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 room temperature
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups baby spinach optional but recommended
  • fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large nonstick skillet
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, save about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Drain and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat in a large nonstick skillet. Add cubed chicken breast, then season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden on the outside and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
  3. In the same skillet over medium heat, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 30 to 60 seconds, until fragrant but not browned. Sprinkle in the whole wheat flour and stir into the garlic oil to form a light roux. Cook for about 30 seconds.
  4. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Add the milk and continue whisking until the sauce begins to thicken and coats the back of a spoon, about 2 to 3 minutes.
  5. Reduce the heat to low to prevent curdling, then stir in the room-temperature Greek yogurt. Mix well until fully incorporated. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts into the sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash or two of your reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
  6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with any juices. Toss in the cooked pasta and add the spinach if using. Stir everything together until the pasta and chicken are fully coated in the creamy sauce and the spinach wilts slightly, about 1 to 2 minutes.
  7. Divide the pasta among plates and garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

Let the yogurt come to room temperature and heat gently (do not boil) to keep the sauce smooth and prevent curdling. Use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-packaged for better taste and texture. Let cool to room temperature before storing in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Add a splash of broth or milk when reheating.