Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Introduction
This Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a quick and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breast combines with a flavorful garlic and parmesan sauce to create a comforting dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces pasta (such as penne or fettuccine)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook for 5-7 minutes per side until cooked through and golden brown. Remove from skillet and slice into strips.
- Step 3: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Step 4: Reduce the heat to low, add the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, and parmesan cheese to the skillet. Toss everything together until the cheese melts and coats the pasta evenly.
- Step 5: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs without compromising flavor.
- Add steamed broccoli or spinach for extra veggies and color.
- Swap parmesan for pecorino romano for a sharper taste.
- For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of low-fat milk or a dollop of Greek yogurt before serving.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or stovetop skillet, adding a little water or olive oil if the pasta seems dry.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless thighs can be used for a juicier texture but adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. It holds well in the fridge and can be portioned for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
PrintHealthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
This Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken breast with al dente pasta, all tossed in a flavorful garlic parmesan sauce made with olive oil and freshly grated parmesan cheese. It’s a quick and nutritious meal perfect for busy weeknights, balancing protein and carbs with a rich but healthy sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
Pasta
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta or your preferred pasta
Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, until cooked through and no longer pink inside. Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Cook the Pasta: While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine.
- Combine and Serve: Slice the cooked chicken breasts into strips. Add the chicken slices back to the skillet with the pasta. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over everything and toss gently to coat evenly. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to adapt for dietary preferences.
- For extra flavor, add fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
- Make sure not to burn the garlic to avoid bitterness in the sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: garlic parmesan chicken pasta, healthy chicken pasta, easy chicken pasta recipe, garlic parmesan sauce, stovetop chicken pasta
