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Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Healthy Dinner

🍝 Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz whole wheat pasta penne, rotini, or your choice
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 tbsp olive oil divided
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or light cream cheese
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 cups fresh spinach optional
  • Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
  5. Add cooked chicken, pasta, and spinach (if using) to the skillet. Toss everything to coat evenly with the sauce. Cook for 2–3 more minutes until heated through and spinach is wilted.
  6. Season with red pepper flakes, additional salt, and pepper if needed.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

For extra veggies, add cherry tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms.
Greek yogurt keeps the sauce creamy with less fat than heavy cream.
Use gluten-free pasta if desired.
This dish reheats well for next-day leftovers.