Heart-Healthy Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta

Indulge in the comforting flavors of our Heart-Healthy Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta, a wholesome twist on a classic favorite that’s perfect for busy weeknights! Made with nutrient-packed whole wheat pasta, tender bites of lean chicken, and a lusciously creamy sauce crafted from low-fat milk and low-sodium chicken broth, this recipe balances rich, satisfying flavors with heart-smart ingredients. Fresh baby spinach adds a vibrant pop of color and essential nutrients, while a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese provides just the right touch of indulgence. With a prep time of only 15 minutes, this dish comes together in under 40 minutes, making it an ideal choice for both health-conscious and time-strapped home cooks. Packed with protein, fiber, and plenty of flavor, it’s a guilt-free pasta recipe the whole family will love!

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 8 ounces whole wheat pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 3 unit garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup low-fat milk
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 4 cups baby spinach
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and the whole wheat pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breast, cut into small bite-sized pieces, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 3

Add the minced garlic to the chicken and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4

In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium chicken broth, low-fat milk, and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the chicken and garlic.

Step 5

Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 6

Add the spinach to the skillet and stir until wilted, about 2 minutes.

Step 7

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 8

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 9

Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and black pepper if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1403.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1718.6

Total Fat 61.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 26.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.3g
Cholesterol 484.8mg	0%
Sodium 3168.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 95.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 13.9g	0%
Total Sugars 14.1g
Protein 198.4g	0%

Vitamin D 123.5IU	0%
Calcium 1398.0mg	0%
Iron 11.4mg	0%
Potassium 1574.1mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 31.9%

Protein: 46.0%

Carbs: 22.0%