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There is something incredibly comforting and satisfying about a creamy pasta dish that still feels light and nourishing, which is exactly why this Healthy Macaroni with Chicken and Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe quickly became one of my all-time favorites. Combining tender pieces of seasoned chicken, wholesome whole-grain macaroni, and a luscious Parmesan sauce made rich and tangy with Greek yogurt, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and health-conscious cooking. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but elegant enough to share with friends, making it a versatile crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role in bringing together the ideal blend of flavors, textures, and colors. You’ll see how simple pantry staples and fresh elements work harmoniously to create an irresistible meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced: Tender protein that keeps the dish hearty yet lean.
- 8 oz whole-grain macaroni: Adds wholesome texture and fiber, or opt for gluten-free if preferred.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for sautéing the chicken and vegetables with a subtle fruity flavor.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Brings natural sweetness and depth to the sauce base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a warm aroma and savory kick throughout the dish.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the sauce moist with a gentle, savory undertone.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk: A dairy alternative that adds creaminess without heaviness—regular milk works too.
- 1 tablespoon whole-wheat flour: Helps thicken the sauce while keeping it more wholesome, swap for gluten-free if needed.
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt: Adds rich creaminess and a subtle tang, making the sauce luxuriously smooth.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers that classic nutty and salty Parmesan flavor everyone loves.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers delicate herbal notes to elevate the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to balance and enhance all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant pop of color and mild earthiness on top.
How to Make Healthy Macaroni with Chicken and Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the diced chicken breasts. Let them cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until they are beautifully browned and cooked through. To build layers of flavor, season them generously with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for now, so you can use the wonderful pan flavors in the next step.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
While the chicken is doing its thing, bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil and cook the whole-grain macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain it when it’s perfectly al dente and set it aside. Cooking the pasta while working on the sauce ensures everything comes together quickly and stays fresh.
Step 3: Make the Sauce Base
In the same skillet you used for the chicken, toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and give it about 30 seconds — just enough for the aroma to bloom without burning. Next, sprinkle the whole-wheat flour evenly over the mixture and stir well to form a paste. This little step is the secret to making sure your sauce will thicken up just right.
Step 4: Add Liquids
Slowly pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and unsweetened almond milk while whisking continuously. This prevents lumps and helps create that velvety base. Bring the mixture to a lively simmer and let it thicken gently for about 3 to 4 minutes. You’ll start seeing that rich, creamy texture forming before your eyes.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce
Once your sauce has thickened slightly, stir in the Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until everything is melted and smooth. This step turns the sauce luxuriously creamy and slightly tangy, which is just divine. Taste the sauce now and adjust with salt, pepper, or a little extra oregano if you like things bolder. This is the heart of the Healthy Macaroni with Chicken and Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe — rich, yet wholesome.
Step 6: Combine
Return the cooked chicken and drained macaroni back into the skillet. Gently toss everything together so the pasta and chicken are perfectly coated in the creamy Parmesan sauce. Heat it through for 2 to 3 minutes, letting all the flavors meld beautifully. This final step really brings the whole dish to life.
Step 7: Serve with Joy
Dish out generous portions of this comforting meal into bowls, then garnish with freshly chopped parsley for that burst of vibrant color and fresh flavor. You can also sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top if you can’t resist that irresistible Parmesan punch. Now, dig in and feel proud of this wholesome, delicious creation.
How to Serve Healthy Macaroni with Chicken and Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbal touch that balances the creamy richness of the sauce. If you want to experiment, a sprinkle of chili flakes or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil can add unexpected warmth and depth.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted veggies, or a simple garlic bread made with whole-grain baguette for added texture. The key is to keep sides light and vibrant so that the creamy macaroni remains the star.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful twist, serve this pasta in mini ramekins and broil with a little extra Parmesan on top for a golden crust. Alternatively, serve it family-style in a large bowl with parsley scattered generously—that inviting look makes it hard to resist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers of this Healthy Macaroni with Chicken and Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe, simply transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even more overnight, making a convenient and delicious next-day meal.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, too! Just cool it completely, pack it in freezer-safe containers, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Keep in mind the texture of the pasta may soften slightly but the taste stays delightful.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creamy texture without drying it out. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming and maximum flavor retention.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While whole-grain macaroni adds extra fiber and a hearty texture, feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta shapes or gluten-free alternatives to suit your dietary needs.
Is Greek yogurt necessary in this recipe?
Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a slight tang that balances the Parmesan, but you can substitute with sour cream or creme fraiche if that’s what you have on hand.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, though chicken is a main feature here, you can easily swap it out for sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or a medley of roasted veggies to keep things plant-based and just as delicious.
How do I make sure the sauce doesn’t curdle?
Be sure to add the Greek yogurt off the heat or on very low heat while stirring constantly. Avoid boiling after adding the yogurt to maintain that velvety smooth texture.
Can I prepare this dish in advance for a dinner party?
Definitely! You can cook all components ahead of time and combine them just before serving. Reheat gently and garnish fresh to maintain that home-cooked charm and ease during your event.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a comforting meal that doesn’t sacrifice nutrition or flavor, this Healthy Macaroni with Chicken and Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe is truly a winner. It’s easy to make, satisfying to eat, and sure to become a go-to favorite whether you’re feeding your family or impressing friends. Give it a try, and I’m confident you’ll fall in love with this creamy, wholesome delight just like I did!
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Healthy Macaroni with Chicken and Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A wholesome and flavorful Healthy Macaroni with Chicken recipe featuring tender chicken breast, whole-grain macaroni, and a creamy Greek yogurt sauce with Parmesan. This nutritious meal balances protein and fiber for a satisfying, heart-healthy dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken and Pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 8 oz whole-grain macaroni (or gluten-free macaroni if needed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or regular milk)
- 1 tablespoon whole-wheat flour (or gluten-free flour for a GF option)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (for creaminess)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the whole-grain macaroni according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds. Sprinkle the whole-wheat flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to form a paste.
- Add Liquids: Slowly pour in the chicken broth and almond milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Finish the Sauce: Stir in the Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and additional dried oregano to taste.
- Combine: Add the cooked chicken and macaroni to the skillet, stirring gently to coat everything with the sauce. Heat everything together for 2-3 minutes until warm.
- Serve: Serve the Healthy Macaroni with Chicken in bowls, garnished with fresh chopped parsley. You can also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese on top if desired.
Notes
- Use gluten-free macaroni and flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Substitute Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative to cater to lactose intolerance.
- Adjust seasoning and herbs to personal preference for added flavor.
- For a richer sauce, use regular milk instead of almond milk.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
