Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Delight 🍝🧄🧀✨
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a healthy chicken pasta option that combines the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan with tender chicken, you’ve come to the right place! This nutritious chicken pasta recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or a satisfying lunch. Packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor, this garlic chicken pasta dish is sure to become a family favorite. For more delicious and healthy recipes, explore our Ultimate BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight or our Easy One-Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner.
2. Ingredients for Your Nutritious Chicken Pasta Recipe
- 8 oz whole wheat or gluten-free pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
3. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook your pasta
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: Prepare the chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the garlic
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Combine ingredients
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
Step 5: Mix in pasta and cheese
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the mixture and toss everything together until well combined and creamy. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Nutritious Chicken Pasta
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until heated through or toss in a hot skillet with a splash of olive oil or water to restore moisture.
5. Serving Suggestions for Your Garlic Chicken Pasta
Serve this healthy chicken pasta dish topped with fresh basil, extra parmesan, or a squeeze of lemon juice for an added fresh flavor. Pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete nutritious meal. For a beverage pairing, consider a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp?
Yes! You can easily substitute chicken with cubed tofu or cooked shrimp for a different protein option that still keeps the dish healthy and delicious.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free pasta, this nutritious chicken pasta can be suitable for a gluten-free diet.
How long does it take to prepare this nutritious chicken pasta recipe?
The total cooking time is approximately 30 minutes, making it a perfect quick weeknight dinner.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Make slicing and chopping ingredients effortless, saving you time in the kitchen.
- CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – Ensures your skillet cooks evenly and cleanup is a breeze.
- Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker – Perfect for preparing refreshing drinks to accompany your healthy meal.
8. Additional Recipes You Might Love
If you’re enjoying this healthy chicken pasta, consider trying other nutritious dishes like Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta or Spicy Cajun Chicken Orzo for more flavor-packed, wholesome meals.
9. Conclusion
This healthy garlic parmesan chicken pasta combines the goodness of whole ingredients with vibrant flavors, making it a perfect nutritious chicken pasta recipe for any occasion. With simple steps and quick preparation, it’s a convenient way to enjoy a balanced meal that satisfies your taste buds. Try this dish today and enjoy a delicious, healthful dinner that the whole family will love!
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Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Delight
A wholesome and flavorful garlic parmesan chicken pasta dish that combines tender chicken slices with al dente pasta in a creamy garlic sauce, topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or spaghetti)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
- Breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and toasted breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
- Enjoy with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Healthy
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 520 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 125mg