Name: Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 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; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 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); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

If you’re craving a cozy, satisfying dish that won’t weigh you down, this Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is your new weeknight hero. Creamy yet wholesome, it’s packed with protein-rich chicken, hearty whole wheat pasta, and a lighter luscious sauce that features Greek yogurt and plenty of fresh Parmesan. Each bite offers savory garlic, tender chicken, leafy greens, and just the right pop of cheesy richness — all without loads of butter or cream. Whether you’re eating clean or just hunting for feel-good comfort food, this Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe packs big flavor the whole family will love.

Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This lineup is refreshingly simple, and each ingredient punches well above its weight to create irresistible flavor, creamy texture, and colorful pops of green. Don’t skip the spinach or the fresh parsley — they’re little touches that make the dish extra vibrant!

Whole wheat penne or fettuccine: The base of our pasta provides fiber and a toasty, nutty flavor that keeps you satisfied.
Olive oil: Just enough to sauté and bring out the garlic aroma without heavy greasiness.
Garlic cloves: Minced fresh for the classic, savory backbone of the sauce — don’t be shy!
Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Lean, tender protein that soaks up all the seasoning beautifully.
Salt and black pepper: The simple essentials for seasoning every step of the way.
Paprika: Adds subtle warmth and a gentle color boost.
Italian seasoning: Blends herbs for that classic Italian flair.
Whole wheat flour: Just a touch to thicken and add depth to the sauce.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Lifts the sauce with savory character and keeps sodium in check.
Low-fat milk (1% or 2%): Creaminess without extra fat — a lighter take on a classic.
Plain non-fat Greek yogurt: The secret for a luxuriously creamy, ultra-satisfying sauce with a bonus protein boost.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Melty, nutty, and oh-so-essential for real, big Parmesan impact.
Baby spinach (optional but recommended): Adds color, nutrients, and a just-wilted finish that ties the whole dish together.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A sprinkle to brighten and signal that you’re about to dig into something special.

How to Make Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a generously salted pot of water to a boil — this is your first big flavor opportunity! Add your whole wheat pasta and cook until just al dente, according to the package directions. Right before draining, scoop out about 1/4 cup of the pasta water; it’s the magic elixir for loosening your sauce later. Drain the pasta and set aside, knowing you’re just a few steps from comfort food bliss.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

While the pasta works its magic, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a big, nonstick skillet over medium. Toss in the chicken cubes, seasoning everything generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for 5 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Once your chicken looks beautifully browned and smells irresistible, transfer it to a plate to rest.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet (don’t wash it — those flavorful bits are pure gold!), add your remaining olive oil and the minced garlic. Stir and let the garlic get fragrant, but not brown. Sprinkle in the whole wheat flour and stir for 30 seconds to create a light roux that will thicken your sauce. Bit by bit, pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly, then add the milk. Keep stirring — the sauce will start to thicken and come together after a couple of minutes.

Step 4: Add Greek Yogurt and Cheese

Turn down the heat and gently fold in the Greek yogurt, whisking until it’s creamy and blended. Next, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan, letting it melt seamlessly into the sauce for ultimate richness. Taste and adjust if needed, and don’t hesitate to add a splash of reserved pasta water for a silkier texture — go for your perfect creaminess without diluting flavor.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the cooked chicken and all its flavorful juices to the pan. Add your pasta and the baby spinach (if you’re using it). Stir everything together until chicken, noodles, and greens are swathed in creamy, cheesy garlic goodness and the spinach is just wilted. This is the heart of your Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe: saucy, hearty, and honestly hard to resist even straight from the skillet.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Spoon the pasta into bowls and shower with chopped parsley and maybe a little extra Parmesan for good measure. This dish is all about eating it fresh — warm, creamy, and absolutely dreamy. Serve right away to capture that beautiful just-made flavor and texture.

How to Serve Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

A finishing flourish takes this pasta from great to extraordinary! Chopped fresh parsley gives brightness and color, while an extra sprinkle of Parmesan makes it feel truly indulgent. If you want more color, add a twist of fresh cracked pepper or even a handful of halved cherry tomatoes for garden-fresh flair.

Side Dishes

Serve your Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe with oven-roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini for a boost of color and fiber. A crisp green salad with a lemony vinaigrette is a fantastic way to brighten the meal and cut through the creamy sauce. Don’t overlook a crusty piece of whole wheat bread for those who can’t resist swiping up the last bits of garlicky sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

For a little extra charm, pile your pasta high in shallow bowls and sprinkle with microgreens, chili flakes, or lemon zest. You can also pack the pasta into individual ramekins, top with a dusting of Parmesan, and broil briefly for a bubbly, golden finish. If you’re meal prepping, layer the pasta with greens in mason jars for a portable, flavorful lunch — just shake and enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe cool completely before storing in airtight containers — this helps preserve the creamy texture and bright flavors. Refrigerate for up to four days, and consider separating out a little extra broth or milk to revive the sauce when you reheat.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze portions, scoop into individual containers and let cool completely first. The Greek yogurt-based sauce stands up surprisingly well to freezing, especially if you thaw slowly overnight in the fridge before reheating. Plan to add a spoonful of broth or milk and stir well as you warm it back up for the silkiest texture.

Reheating

Reheat your Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add just a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce and bring back the creamy magic. Stir frequently while reheating and avoid letting the sauce boil; gentle is the way to go for the best consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While whole wheat pasta adds extra fiber and makes the dish feel heartier, you can use regular pasta or gluten-free varieties if you prefer. Penne, fettuccine, or even rotini all work beautifully with this creamy sauce.

Is there a substitute for Greek yogurt?

If Greek yogurt isn’t your thing, try using low-fat plain skyr or a thick, unsweetened yogurt instead. For a dairy-free version, an unsweetened plain coconut yogurt can work, though it will lend a slightly different flavor and creaminess.

How do I keep the sauce from curdling?

The trick with Greek yogurt is to reduce your heat to low before stirring it in and avoid letting the sauce boil after addition. Adding it off the heat and whisking gently makes for a silky, lump-free finish every time.

What other vegetables can I add?

Spinach is a classic, but don’t stop there! Try adding sautéed mushrooms, steamed broccoli, peas, or roasted bell peppers. This recipe’s adaptable base makes it easy to pack in extra veggies and color.

Can I prep this Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe ahead of time?

Yes! This dish is meal-prep friendly. Just portion it out after cooling and store in fridge-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, add a splash of broth or milk as you reheat to restore the original creamy sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is pure cozy comfort for any night of the week — creamy, savory, and completely craveable, without any guilt or heaviness. I hope you’re inspired to whip it up soon and find it as effortlessly delicious as I do. Give it a try, make it your own, and share with your favorite people — it’s a new classic ready to land on your regular dinner rotation!