Description
A wholesome and delicious Healthy Macaroni with Chicken recipe featuring whole-grain macaroni, lean diced chicken breasts, and a creamy Greek yogurt and Parmesan sauce. This comforting dish is quick to prepare in just 25 minutes, balancing protein and fiber for a nutritious family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
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 (for garnish)
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. Optionally, sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free macaroni and gluten-free flour.
- Unsweetened almond milk can be substituted with regular milk depending on preference.
- Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a protein boost while keeping the dish lighter than heavy cream.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste throughout cooking.
- Fresh parsley garnish adds a fresh, bright flavor and visual appeal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
