Welcome back to TastyNiche.com, my dear friends! Today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that’s not just easy to whip up but also bursting with flavor—Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Now, let me tell you, this dish holds a special place in my heart. It reminds me of those busy weeknights when the kitchen was filled with the aroma of garlic and chicken, and my family gathered around the table, eager to dig in. It’s a meal that’s made with love and a sprinkle of joy, perfect for those evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Cooking has always been my way of bringing people together, and this recipe is no exception. It’s simple enough for beginners but flavorful enough to impress even the most seasoned home cooks. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into the world of garlic, parmesan, and creamy goodness!
Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
There’s so much to adore about this dish, and I can’t wait to share it with you!
- It’s a quick and easy dinner that can be ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for those hectic weeknights!
- This pasta is packed with lean protein from the chicken and the added creaminess of Greek yogurt, making it a healthy choice.
- With whole wheat pasta and fresh spinach, you’re getting a meal that’s nutritious and satisfying.
- The garlic and parmesan create a flavor explosion that will keep you coming back for seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Now let’s talk about the star players of this recipe! I love using whole wheat pasta because it adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber to the dish. The chicken provides the protein boost, while the Greek yogurt adds creaminess without all the calories of heavy cream. And of course, garlic and parmesan are the dynamic duo that makes this dish sing!
You’ll find the full ingredient list with measurements in the recipe card below!
How to Make This Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, Step-by-Step
Alright, let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make this delightful dish:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of whole wheat penne or fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, save about 1/4 cup of the pasta water—it helps loosen the sauce later if needed. Drain it and set it aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat in a large nonstick skillet. Add the cubed chicken breast, seasoning it with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 5–6 minutes, flipping occasionally, until it gets golden brown on the outside and is cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to let it brown, as it can turn bitter quickly. Next, sprinkle in the whole wheat flour and stir it into the garlic oil to form a light roux. Cook for about 30 seconds to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Add the milk and continue whisking until the sauce begins to thicken, which should take about 2–3 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Greek yogurt, mixing well until fully incorporated—this creates a creamy texture without the heaviness of cream. Add the freshly 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.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with any juices that collected on the plate. 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 is just wilted.
- Divide the pasta among plates and garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra parmesan. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
To ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time, here are a few of my favorite tips:
- Make sure not to overcook the garlic; it should be just fragrant. Burnt garlic can ruin the flavor of your dish.
- Don’t skip the reserved pasta water! It’s a great way to adjust the sauce consistency without watering down the flavor.
- If you want to add some extra veggies, feel free to toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers along with the spinach for added color and nutrition!
Serving Suggestions
This Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your meal with a few creative ideas:
- Serve it with a side of garlic bread for a comforting twist.
- Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.
- Top it off with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat—trust me, it’s a game changer!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
If you’re thinking about meal prep, this dish stores beautifully! Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water if necessary.
- If you want to make it ahead, prepare the sauce and chicken, and cook the pasta separately. Combine everything just before serving to keep the pasta from getting too soft.
- While I wouldn’t recommend freezing the entire dish due to the creamy sauce, you can freeze the cooked chicken and pasta separately and combine them later for a quick meal.
And there you have it—a delicious, healthy meal that’s sure to become a family favorite! I hope you enjoy making this Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta as much as I do. Remember, cooking should be fun, so don’t stress about perfection—just enjoy the process and the delightful results!
Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain, saving 1/4 cup of pasta water.
- Cook seasoned chicken in olive oil until golden and cooked through, then set aside.
- Sauté garlic in the same skillet, add flour, then whisk in broth and milk until thickened. Stir in Greek yogurt and Parmesan until smooth.
- Return chicken to skillet, add cooked pasta and spinach, and toss to coat. Adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Divide among plates, garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan, then serve immediately.