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Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

A lighter take on classic garlic parmesan chicken pasta. Creamy, high in protein, and ready in 25 minutes using Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 430

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz Whole wheat penne or fettuccine
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 lb Boneless skinless chicken breasts cubed
  • ½ tsp Paprika
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tbsp Whole wheat flour
  • 1 cup Low-sodium chicken broth
  • ½ cup Low-fat milk 1% or 2%
  • ½ cup Plain non-fat Greek yogurt
  • ½ cup Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups Baby spinach optional but recommended
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Cutting board
  • Chef's knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add 8 oz whole wheat penne or fettuccine. Cook according to package directions until al dente. While the pasta cooks, move on to Step 2. Before draining, save about ½ cup of the starchy pasta water. Then drain and set aside.
  2. While your pasta is cooking, heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken along with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
  3. Reduce heat to medium and push the chicken to one side. Add minced garlic and whole wheat flour to the empty side, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Slowly pour in chicken broth and milk, whisking as you go to keep the sauce smooth. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  4. Turn heat down to low. Stir in the Greek yogurt and freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and fully combined. Add a splash of saved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
  5. Add the drained pasta and baby spinach to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated and the spinach has wilted, about one minute. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest melt. If the sauce becomes too thick, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of pasta water. You can substitute leftover or rotisserie chicken to save time. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and add a splash of broth when reheating.