Description
Savor the comfort and nutrition of our Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, a delightful Healthy Protein Pasta perfect for busy weeknight dinners. This wholesome recipe combines tender chicken, whole wheat penne, and rich Parmesan for a Pasta Healthy Recipe that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious. Ideal for those seeking Easy Protein Dinner Recipes or a Chicken Meal Prep that’s low on fuss but high on flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz whole wheat penne
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 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
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups baby spinach (optional but recommended)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the penne in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add cubed chicken and season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned on all sides.
- Sprinkle in flour and stir to coat the chicken evenly.
- Gradually pour in chicken broth and milk, stirring continuously. Allow sauce to simmer and thicken.
- Stir in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until creamy.
- Fold in drained pasta and fresh baby spinach, allowing spinach to wilt slightly.
- Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot.
Notes
- Roast the garlic for a deeper flavor.
- Ensure chicken is evenly cubed for uniform cooking.
- Don’t over-thicken the sauce or overcook the chicken.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, Healthy Protein Pasta, Easy Protein Dinner Recipes