Heart-Healthy Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

Indulge in the guilt-free comfort of Heart-Healthy Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta, a delightful spin on a classic favorite that doesn't compromise on flavor or nutrition. This wholesome recipe begins with tender bites of seasoned chicken breast, sautéed to golden perfection in heart-friendly olive oil. Whole grain pasta serves as the fiber-rich base, perfectly coated in a luscious, guilt-free creamy sauce made from unsweetened almond milk, low-sodium chicken broth, and a hint of parmesan cheese. The addition of fresh spinach, garlic, and a splash of lemon juice brings brightness and depth, while parsley adds the perfect finishing touch. Ready in just 35 minutes, this nutritious, low-sodium entrée is a deliciously simple way to elevate weeknight dinners. Ideal for those seeking flavorful, family-friendly meal ideas that support heart health without sacrificing indulgence.

Nutriscore Rating: 77/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 8 ounces whole grain pasta
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 0.25 cup parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add a pinch of salt, and cook the whole grain pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

While the pasta cooks, cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 6-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Mince the garlic cloves and add them to the skillet. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant and lightly golden.

Step 5

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

Step 6

Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, for about 3-4 minutes until it begins to thicken.

Step 7

Stir in the parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach is wilted. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine.

Step 8

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the pasta with the creamy sauce.

Step 9

Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.

Step 10

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1334.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1428.9

Total Fat 55.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 13.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.3g
Cholesterol 366.5mg	0%
Sodium 1924.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 79.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 13.2g	0%
Total Sugars 3.8g
Protein 152.1g	0%

Vitamin D 87.8IU	0%
Calcium 867.5mg	0%
Iron 12.1mg	0%
Potassium 1727.8mg	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: 35.2%

Protein: 42.6%

Carbs: 22.2%