Low Fat Chicken Pesto Pasta
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of our Low Fat Chicken Pesto Pasta—an easy, wholesome dish that combines tender slices of seasoned chicken breast, al dente whole wheat pasta, and a creamy Greek yogurt-based pesto sauce. This healthy twist on a classic favorite features fresh basil, nutrient-packed spinach, toasted pine nuts, and a hint of lemon for a zesty, irresistible finish. Quick to prepare in just 35 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights while offering a balanced, lower-fat option for pasta lovers. Serve it warm for a satisfying dinner packed with protein, fiber, and bold Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 300 grams whole wheat pasta
- 2 units boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 100 grams low-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup baby spinach leaves
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts
- 2 units garlic cloves
- 30 grams parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Start by cooking the whole wheat pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the chicken. Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
Heat 1 tablespoon of the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let rest, then slice into thin strips.
In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, spinach leaves, pine nuts, garlic cloves, parmesan cheese, lemon juice, remaining tablespoon of olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pulse until finely chopped.
Add the low-fat Greek yogurt to the pesto mixture and blend again until smooth and creamy.
In a large mixing bowl or the same skillet, combine the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, and the prepared pesto sauce. Toss until all components are well coated with the pesto.
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1142 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 55.8 g | 72% | |
| Saturated Fat | 13.6 g | 68% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 127 mg | 42% | |
| Sodium | 3006 mg | 131% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 99.4 g | 36% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 16.8 g | 60% | |
| Total Sugars | 15.0 g | ||
| Protein | 71.4 g | 143% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.9 mcg | 5% | |
| Calcium | 538 mg | 41% | |
| Iron | 7.4 mg | 41% | |
| Potassium | 1194 mg | 25% | |
*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.
