Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for a Delicious Dinner 🍝🧄🧀

1. Introduction

Looking for a wholesome yet indulgent dish? healthy chicken pasta recipes like this garlic parmesan chicken pasta are perfect for satisfying your dinner cravings without compromising your diet. This flavorful dish combines tender chicken, fragrant garlic, and creamy parmesan cheese, all tossed with al dente pasta. It’s a low-fat chicken pasta option that is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients. Whether you’re meal prepping or cooking for the family, this chicken parmesan pasta is a guaranteed hit. Plus, it offers flexibility with ingredients and can easily be adapted for various dietary needs.

2. Ingredients for a flavorful yet healthy garlic chicken pasta

• 8 ounces of whole wheat or gluten-free pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil or avocado oil
• 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup of spinach leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

3. Step-by-step instructions for making delicious healthy chicken pasta

Preparation of the chicken and pasta

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Meanwhile, season the chicken strips with salt and pepper.

Cooking the chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Sautéing garlic and vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in cherry tomatoes and spinach, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables soften.

Combining everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with vegetables. Add the cooked pasta and grated parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through. For extra flavor, sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

4. Storage tips for leftover garlic chicken pasta

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short bursts or warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth. For best results, consume within 24 hours to enjoy the freshness of the vegetables and cheese.

5. Serving suggestions for a perfect dinner

This healthy chicken pasta pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables. Serve with crusty whole-grain bread for a complete meal. You could also add a sprinkle of extra parmesan or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. For a more indulgent option, drizzle with a little balsamic glaze or serve with your favorite white wine.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp?

Absolutely! To make this dish vegetarian or pescatarian, swap the chicken for firm tofu or cooked shrimp. Adjust cooking times accordingly, ensuring tofu is well-marinated for extra flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-fat diet?

Yes, by using olive oil sparingly and opting for low-fat cheese or reducing the parmesan, you can make it even healthier. Whole wheat pasta also adds fiber, making it a heart-healthy choice.

How long does it take to prepare this garlic chicken pasta?

The entire process takes roughly 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

7. Internal links for more delicious meal ideas

• Sweet Spicy Hot Honey Chicken Bowl
• Creamy Meat and Potato Skillet Dinner
• One-Pot Cheeseburger Orzo Skillet

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Make your cooking experience even more enjoyable with the right tools. We recommend the CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set for easy cooking and cleanup. To prepare fresh vegetables quickly, try the Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master. For versatile cooking, the KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer is ideal for many kitchen tasks, though not necessary for this recipe specifically.

9. Conclusion

Enjoy this healthful and flavorful garlic parmesan chicken pasta as a nutritious dinner that the entire family will love. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and packed with wholesome ingredients, making it the perfect choice for a quick, satisfying meal. Incorporate this low-fat chicken pasta recipe into your weekly menu and indulge in a delicious, healthy dinner tonight!

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