Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (Easy High-Protein Dinner Recipe)

Why make this recipe

Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a wonderful choice for dinner when you want something quick and nutritious. This dish combines high-protein chicken and whole wheat pasta, making it filling while also being good for you. The creamy sauce made with Greek yogurt and Parmesan gives a delightful flavor without too many calories. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, so you can whip it up even on your busiest nights.

How to make Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 2 cups whole wheat pasta (penne or rotini)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh parsley or red pepper flakes for garnish

Directions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and stir in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
5. Toss in the cooked pasta and combine well. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken.
6. Serve warm, topped with parsley or chili flakes if desired.

How to serve Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Serve your Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta warm right from the stovetop. It makes a great main dish for lunch or dinner. To make it more appealing, sprinkle some fresh parsley or red pepper flakes on top. This adds a nice touch and some extra flavor.

How to store Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop until it is heated through. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth to revive the creamy sauce.

Tips to make Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• Make sure not to overcook the chicken; it should be juicy, not dry.
• Use low-sodium chicken broth to keep the dish healthier.
• Feel free to add veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes for more nutrients and color.

Variation

You can easily switch up the protein by using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken. For a twist, try adding different cheeses, like feta or mozzarella, for a change in flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular pasta instead of whole wheat pasta?
Yes, you can use regular pasta, but whole wheat pasta is healthier and adds more fiber.

2. Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just skip the chicken and add more vegetables or use chickpeas for protein.

3. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 2 months. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container.

Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

A quick, nutritious dinner option that combines high-protein chicken and whole wheat pasta in a creamy sauce made with Greek yogurt and Parmesan.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Healthy

Calories: 400

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main ingredients

• 2 pieces chicken breasts, diced Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
• 2 cups whole wheat pasta (penne or rotini) Can substitute with regular pasta.
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth Use low-sodium to keep the dish healthier.
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt For a creamy sauce.
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese Can substitute with different cheeses for variation.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• to taste Salt & pepper
• optional fresh parsley or red pepper flakes for garnish For added flavor and presentation.

Method

 

Cooking

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and stir in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
5. Toss in the cooked pasta and combine well. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken.
6. Serve warm, topped with parsley or chili flakes if desired.

Notes

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth.