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30 Minute Chicken Pasta | Easy Chicken Pasta for a Quick Weeknight Dinner

30 Minute Chicken Pasta

Emma steph
This nutritious and wholesome chicken pasta is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying, creamy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. By swapping heavy cream for Greek yogurt and using whole wheat pasta, this Italian-inspired dish delivers robust flavor, fiber, and protein while remaining light and healthy. With fresh garlic, tender chicken, and a hint of smoked paprika, it offers a sophisticated profile that the whole family will love.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian-inspired
Servings 4 servings
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz whole wheat penne
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, 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
  • 1/2 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups baby spinach

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the penne until al dente, then drain.
  • Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat and add the chicken cubes.
  • Season the chicken with paprika and Italian seasoning, cooking until browned and cooked through.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Sprinkle the flour over the chicken and stir to coat.
  • Gradually pour in the chicken broth and milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens.
  • Reduce heat to low and stir in the Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
  • Add the baby spinach and cooked pasta to the pan, tossing until the spinach wilts and the pasta is well-coated in the sauce.

Notes

Ensure you use low-sodium chicken broth to maintain control over the salt levels of the dish. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts much smoother than pre-shredded varieties. If you need a gluten-free option, simply substitute the whole wheat pasta for your favorite gluten-free alternative.

Nutrition

Serving: 1.5gCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 48gProtein: 32gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 450mgFiber: 7gSugar: 5g
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