I’ve spent countless evenings trying to balance flavor and health when it comes to dinner, and let me tell you, the struggle is real. That’s why I created this healthy garlic parmesan chicken pasta! It combines the heartiness of chicken with the creamy goodness of garlic parmesan sauce, all while being on the lighter side. If you’re looking for a nourishing meal that feels indulgent without the guilt, you’ve come to the right place.
What makes this dish truly special is its creamy texture and vibrant flavors. Whole wheat pasta adds a wholesome touch, while the garlic and parmesan elevate it to a savory delight. It’s perfect for everyone—busy weeknights, comforting family meals, or when you simply want something warm and satisfying. Plus, it comes together seamlessly in just a few steps!
Why you’ll love this
- It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The flavors are rich and satisfying, making it feel indulgent.
- It’s budget-friendly and uses common ingredients.
- You can prep it ahead for easy meal planning.
- Fewer dishes mean less cleanup—a win in my book!
"Tastes incredible and so simple to make."
Step-by-step overview
In this recipe, you will start by cooking the whole wheat pasta until it’s al dente. While that’s happening, season and sauté your cubed chicken until it’s cooked through and golden brown. You’ll then create a delicious garlic parmesan sauce that brings everything together beautifully, adding creamy Greek yogurt for richness. Finally, mix in your cooked pasta and enjoy!
What you’ll need for healthy garlic parmesan chicken pasta
- 8 oz whole wheat penne or fettuccine
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 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)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Whole wheat pasta: This adds more fiber than regular pasta, but you can use any pasta you prefer.
- Greek yogurt: Great for creaminess and protein; you can substitute with sour cream or more milk if needed.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated melts better than pre-grated. Feel free to swap with pecorino for a sharper flavor.
- Spinach: An optional add-in that boosts the nutrition; kale could work as another leafy green substitute.
How to make it
To make healthy garlic parmesan chicken pasta, follow these simple steps. The result is a deliciously creamy dish that’s equally satisfying to your taste buds and your health goals.
Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the whole wheat penne or fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Season and Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the cubed chicken with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until the chicken is golden and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Build the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then, whisk in the whole wheat flour, allowing it to cook for another minute. Gradually pour in the chicken broth and milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens.
Add Greek Yogurt and Cheese: Reduce the heat and stir in the Greek yogurt and freshly grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Season with additional salt and black pepper if desired.
Combine and Finish: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta. If using, add the baby spinach. Toss everything together until well combined and the spinach has wilted slightly.
Serve Hot: Plate your creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta, garnishing with fresh parsley. Enjoy it immediately while it’s warm and comforting!
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure to rinse the pasta briefly under cold water if you’re preparing it ahead; this keeps it from sticking together.
- Pat the chicken dry before cooking to achieve a better sear and prevent steaming.
- For a more robust flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine when building the sauce.
- Keep a close eye on the garlic while sautéing; it can turn bitter if burned.
Best ways to enjoy it
This healthy garlic parmesan chicken pasta pairs well with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for extra crunch and nutrition. Serve it with a sprinkle of additional parmesan on top or a light drizzle of olive oil. It’s perfect for dinner when you want something warm and filling!
How to store & freeze
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have leftover chicken pasta, reheat gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or milk to bring back its creamy texture. For longer storage, consider freezing the pasta; it will keep well for up to 2 months.
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours; reheat until steaming hot.
How to fix common issues
If your pasta turns out too dry, try adding a bit more chicken broth or milk while reheating. If the sauce is too thick, adding a splash of liquid can loosen it up. For bland flavors, a pinch of extra seasoning can go a long way. If the chicken is dry, ensure it’s cooked until just done—overcooked chicken can lose moisture. Lastly, if the sauce separates, try whisking in a bit more Greek yogurt or cheese over low heat to bring it back together.
Creative twists
You can customize this dish to your taste! Consider swapping in different proteins like shrimp or turkey in place of chicken. For a vegetarian version, substitute chickpeas for chicken and use vegetable broth instead. If you’re a fan of heat, add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. You can even incorporate seasonal vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for added texture and nutrition!
Common questions
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! You can easily substitute the whole wheat pasta with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure that the other ingredients you are using are also gluten-free.
Is it possible to prepare this meal in advance?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and make the sauce a day in advance. Just combine everything before serving, adding the pasta and spinach at the last moment to keep them fresh.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or peas. Just sauté them along with the chicken or add them when mixing in the sauce.
How can I enhance the flavor?
For an additional layer of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or zest right before serving. Fresh herbs, such as basil or thyme, also add a lovely brightness to the dish.
What should I serve it with?
A side salad or roasted veggies work beautifully alongside this forgiving, hearty dish. Garlic bread or a light, crisp bruschetta could also enhance your meal experience.
Enjoy creating this healthy garlic parmesan chicken pasta—a dish that hits all the right notes while nourishing your body and soul!
Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the whole wheat penne or fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the cubed chicken with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook for about 6-8 minutes until the chicken is golden and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Whisk in the whole wheat flour, allowing it to cook for another minute.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth and milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Reduce the heat and stir in the Greek yogurt and freshly grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Season with additional salt and black pepper if desired.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta. If using, add the baby spinach.
- Toss everything together until well combined and the spinach has wilted slightly.
- Plate your creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta, garnishing with fresh parsley. Enjoy it immediately while it’s warm and comforting!