How can I make this Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta even healthier?

To further boost the health factor, consider increasing the amount of fresh vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes. You can also opt for a whole wheat or legume-based pasta for more fiber and protein, and reduce the amount of cheese slightly.

Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While whole wheat spaghetti or linguine are great choices, you can easily use other shapes like penne, rotini, or even a gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to cook it according to package directions until al dente.

How long does Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta last in the fridge?

When stored in an airtight container, this pasta dish will remain fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It's excellent for meal prepping throughout the week! Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or in the microwave.

What vegetables can I add to this dish?

This recipe is incredibly versatile! Beyond spinach, you can incorporate sautu00e9ed mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, asparagus, or sun-dried tomatoes. Add them along with the garlic or chicken to cook until tender-crisp.

Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Your Guilt-Free Weeknight Delight!

Description

A delightful and lightened-up creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta, perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
8 ounces whole wheat pasta (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, penne)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or 1 tbsp olive oil for even healthier)
6 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour)
2 cups skim milk or low-fat chicken broth
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Step 1: Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Step 2: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken cubes with salt and pepper. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Reduce heat to medium. Add butter (or more olive oil) to the skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 4: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
Step 5: Gradually whisk in the skim milk or low-fat chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring constantly, until it thickens.
Step 6: Stir in the 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If adding, stir in fresh spinach until wilted. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
Step 8: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Notes

For extra fiber and nutrients, feel free to add more vegetables like broccoli florets or cherry tomatoes to the sauce along with the spinach. Adjust seasoning to your preference.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1.5 cups
Calories: 420 kcal
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 550mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 80mg