It’s important to have that go-to meal to turn to when life gets busy or tries to knock you down. On a day when all you feel like doing is indulging in that comfort food, it doesn’t have to turn out all that bad. Why? Because there are “skinny” alternatives to your favorite dishes. I finally found mine. Thank you Gina Homolka, author of the Skinnytaste Cookbook.

Growing up, my favorite food was always pasta. Well, basically anything Italian. I had the amazing opportunity to travel to Italy, and it was all that I dreamed of. Pasta, Pizza, Gelato! I love ordering the Chicken Parmesan at my fave Italian restaurant because it also comes with a side dish of penne marinara- best of both worlds! Well now I’m all about the balance, meaning there must be a way to feel like I am enjoying my favorite restaurant dish while practicing healthy habits and portion control. The Skinnytaste Skinny Chicken Parmesan is my answer.

I deviate from the recipe in order to include my secret ingredient that I add to most meals that call for marinara sauce… Trader Joe’s Arrabiata Sauce! For this recipe, the chicken is first baked to perfection and then put in a skillet with the sauce and cheese. It tastes so delicious, and I don’t think I will ever get sick of this meal. I always change up the sides, too. Sometimes I make a portion of pasta, other times I serve it with veggies like asparagus. Either way, it always turns out amazing!

My point to this post is that I never feel like I’m “dieting” or giving up my favorite meals. Whether it is finding healthier alternatives or just indulging in the actual thing, just do you.