Name: Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 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)

Description

This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe combines tender chicken, garlic, and creamy sauce for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

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)

Instructions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
In a skillet, heat olive oil and add chicken, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is browned.
Add minced garlic and flour to the pan. Stir for 1 minute.
Pour in chicken broth and milk. Simmer until slightly thickened.
Stir in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
Add baby spinach and stir until wilted.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

Notes

Pasta Options: Any short pasta works well, including penne, rotini, or farfalle. Use whole-wheat or high-protein pasta for extra fiber and protein.
Chicken Swap: You can use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to speed things up.
Sauce Thickness: If the sauce becomes too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons of pasta water until it reaches your preferred consistency.
Make It Lighter: Greek yogurt replaces heavy cream and keeps the dish creamy while lowering calories.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add a splash of broth when reheating.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken, Pasta, Easy Recipe