Go Back
+ servings
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Easy, Flavorful, and Guilt-Free

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a healthy and flavorful twist on a classic dish, packed with protein and creamy goodness.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Whole Wheat Pasta substitute with high-protein pasta for added fiber
For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts rotisserie chicken is a quick alternative
For the Sauce
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil try avocado oil for a different taste
  • 3 cloves Garlic fresh garlic packs the most flavor
  • 1/2 tsp Paprika use smoked paprika for a deeper taste
  • 1/2 tsp Italian Seasoning swap with dried basil or oregano if needed
  • 1 tbsp Whole Wheat Flour cornstarch or almond flour are good substitutes
  • 1 cup Low-Sodium Chicken Broth switch to vegetable broth for a vegetarian option
  • 1/2 cup Low-Fat Milk almond or oat milk can substitute for a dairy-free option
  • 1/2 cup Plain Non-Fat Greek Yogurt sour cream can be used instead
  • 1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese pre-packaged shredded cheese works but may alter texture
For the Add-Ins
  • 2 cups Baby Spinach kale or other greens are great alternatives
  • Salt essential for seasoning to taste
  • Black Pepper essential for seasoning to taste
For Garnish
  • Fresh Parsley omit or replace with basil if desired

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Large skillet

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil over high heat. Add 8 oz of whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water for later use. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Season the cubed boneless skinless chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Carefully add the chicken to the skillet and sauté for 5-6 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and reduce the heat to medium. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant and lightly golden, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of whole wheat flour over the garlic in the skillet, stirring to form a roux. Cook the roux for about 1 minute, then gradually whisk in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth and 1/2 cup of low-fat milk. Continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens, approximately 2-3 minutes.
  5. Lower the heat and fold in 1/2 cup of plain non-fat Greek yogurt and 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until reaching your desired consistency.
  6. Return the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet, along with 2 cups of baby spinach if using. Toss everything together gently over low heat until evenly coated and the spinach has wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
  7. Plate the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta and garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 6gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Ensure to save reserved pasta water for adjusting the sauce consistency. Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!