Print

Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Print Recipe

Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a lighter, protein-packed twist on a classic comfort dish. Made with whole wheat pasta, lean chicken, Greek yogurt, and Parmesan cheese, it delivers creamy texture and rich garlic flavor without heavy cream. This quick and satisfying meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting that still fits a clean-eating lifestyle.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 8 oz whole wheat penne or fettuccine

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed

  • ½ teaspoon paprika

  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • 1 tablespoon 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)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small amount of pasta water if needed.

2. Season and Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the cubed chicken, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly golden. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Build the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 1 minute.
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk, cooking until the sauce thickens slightly.

4. Add Greek Yogurt and Cheese

Lower the heat and stir in the Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Do not boil.

5. Combine and Finish

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the pasta.
Stir in the spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes, until wilted.
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water or broth.

6. Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts better and creates a smoother sauce.

  • Keep heat low when adding yogurt: High heat can cause curdling.

  • Boost protein: Use high-protein pasta for extra nutrition.

  • Make it spicier: Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Find it online: https://chocotune.com/healthy-garlic-parmesan-chicken-pasta/