Description
This Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish made lighter with low-fat dairy and whole grain pasta. Packed with lean protein and garlic-Parmesan flavor, it’s a quick and nutritious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 8 oz whole wheat or protein-enriched pasta
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk
- 2 oz low-fat cream cheese or 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season the sliced chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the milk and cream cheese (or Greek yogurt), whisking until smooth.
- Add the Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and add the cooked pasta. Toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- Use chickpea or zucchini noodles for a low-carb or higher-protein option.
- Add spinach or kale for extra greens and nutrients.
- Red pepper flakes can be added for a spicy kick.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of milk.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
