If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal that won’t break the calorie bank, then this Low Calorie Chicken Pasta Bake is the perfect dish for you. Packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients, this recipe is a healthier take on the classic comfort food favorite. With a creamy tomato sauce, tender chicken, and al dente pasta, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the details of creating this satisfying and guilt-free meal that your whole family will love.
Low Calorie Chicken Pasta Bake
Ingredients:
– 8 oz whole grain pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup low-fat milk
– 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp whole wheat flour
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish and set aside.
2. Cook the whole grain pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Sprinkle the whole wheat flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute to remove the raw flour taste.
6. Slowly whisk in the low-fat milk and low-sodium chicken broth until the mixture is smooth. Stir in the dried oregano and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Let the sauce simmer and thicken for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Add the cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, and cooked pasta to the skillet. Gently toss everything together until well combined.
9. Transfer the chicken pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Once done, remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
This Low Calorie Chicken Pasta Bake is a wholesome and satisfying meal that proves you don’t have to sacrifice flavor to eat healthily. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for your loved ones, this recipe is a sure crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone wanting more. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of a classic pasta bake without the guilt, and savor each bite knowing you’ve made a nutritious choice for your body.
