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Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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A light and creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta dish made with whole wheat pasta and Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.

Ingredients

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  • 8 oz whole wheat penne or fettuccine (substitute gluten-free pasta if needed)
  • 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

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Toss the cubed chicken with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Add chicken to the hot skillet and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove chicken to a plate.
  4. Reduce heat to medium. Add more oil if the pan is dry, then add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Sprinkle flour over the garlic and stir for 30 seconds to form a light roux.
  6. Slowly whisk in chicken broth and milk, scraping up any brown bits from the pan. Simmer 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  7. Remove the pan from heat. Whisk in Greek yogurt until smooth.
  8. Stir in Parmesan until melted. If the sauce seems thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
  9. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and add drained pasta. Toss to combine and heat through for 1 to 2 minutes.
  10. Fold in baby spinach until just wilted. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  11. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the cleanest melt and flavor. Hold back on added salt until the end if your broth is salty.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.simplefamilydishes.com/healthy-garlic-parmesan-chicken-pasta-2/