Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta: Your New Go-To Weeknight Dinner

Craving a rich, creamy pasta dish that won’t derail your Weight Watchers progress? This Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta is here to satisfy your cravings without the guilt! Combining tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a luxurious Marsala wine sauce, this dish is a perfect blend of comfort and elegance. It’s a guilt-free way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Weight Watchers-Friendly: Made with lighter ingredients and portion control in mind.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
• Decadent Flavor: The Marsala wine and creamy sauce create a dish that feels indulgent.
• Versatile: Swap in your favorite veggies or protein for a personalized twist.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz whole wheat pasta (or your favorite low-point pasta)
• 12 oz boneless, skinless chicken breasts (diced)
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup Marsala wine
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/4 cup light cream or plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp olive oil (or cooking spray)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
• Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste

Instructions:

Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil (or cooking spray) in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Season diced chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Veggies

1. In the same skillet, add mushrooms, onions, and garlic. Sauté until tender and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes.

Deglaze with Marsala Wine

1. Pour in the Marsala wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Add Broth and Cream

1. Stir in chicken broth and light cream (or Greek yogurt). Bring to a gentle simmer and let the sauce thicken for 3-4 minutes.

Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until well-coated in the sauce.

Finish with Cheese and Herbs

1. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley over the top for a final touch of flavor.

Serve and Enjoy

1. Plate your Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta and savor every bite!

Nutritional Information:

(Per serving: ~1.5 cups pasta + chicken and sauce)

• Calories: ~350
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 5g
• WW SmartPoints: 7-10 (depending on ingredients and portion size).

Tips for Success:

• Use a Good Marsala Wine: Opt for a dry Marsala wine for the best flavor.
• Control Portions: Stick to the recommended serving size to stay on track with your SmartPoints.
• Add Veggies: Boost the nutritional value by adding spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Lighter Option: Use fat-free Greek yogurt instead of light cream to save a few points.

Why This Recipe Works for Weight Watchers:

• Lean Protein: Chicken breast is a zero-point food, making it a great base for this dish.
• Smart Carbs: Whole wheat pasta adds fiber, keeping you fuller longer.
• Flavor Without the Fat: Light cream and Parmesan cheese deliver creamy satisfaction without excess calories.

Serving Ideas:

• Pair with a Salad: Serve with a zero-point side salad for a complete meal.
• Add Bread: A slice of whole-grain garlic bread (track points) makes it extra indulgent.
• Meal Prep: Double the recipe and portion it out for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

This Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta is proof that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for fitness. With its tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and luxurious Marsala wine sauce, it’s a dish that feels indulgent yet fits seamlessly into your wellness journey. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe is a delicious reminder that healthy eating can be exciting and satisfying!