Description
A cozy and nutritious pasta dish featuring lean chicken, whole-grain pasta, and a light creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
Ingredients
- 12 oz whole-grain or gluten-free pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup skim or plant-based milk
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt or light cream cheese
- 1 cup baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt (or to taste)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Optional: red pepper flakes, chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prep and cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta 1–2 minutes less than package directions for al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Sear the chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm 1 tbsp olive oil. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano. Sear until golden and cooked through, about 4–5 minutes per side for small pieces. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Build the sauce: Reduce heat to medium, add remaining olive oil, and sauté onion until translucent (3–4 minutes). Add garlic and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
- Deglaze and simmer: Pour in chicken broth and milk, scraping up browned bits. Simmer gently 3–4 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Finish the sauce: Stir in Parmesan cheese, Greek yogurt (or cream cheese), and lemon juice until smooth. If the sauce seems thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency.
- Combine everything: Return chicken to the skillet, add spinach and cooked pasta, and toss to coat. Heat through for 1–2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve warm, garnished with parsley and extra Parmesan. Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a little kick.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan for best results and ensure pasta is cooked al dente for optimal texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian