Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Healthy Dinner

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for a Healthy Dinner 🍝🧄🧀✨

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a healthy chicken pasta recipe that combines rich flavors with nutritious ingredients, look no further! This easy dinner is perfect for busy weeknights when hunger strikes but you want to keep it light and satisfying. The perfect blend of tender chicken, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, and al dente pasta makes this garlic parmesan chicken dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish. Let’s dive into making this delicious healthy pasta dish.

2. Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• 8 oz (225 g) of whole wheat or gluten-free pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free option
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Optional: cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra veggies

3. How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your favorite pasta type and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlicky Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, allowing it to reduce slightly. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and additional seasoning. Stir well until the sauce thickens.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together to coat well in the creamy sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. For added flavor, mix in some cherry tomatoes or spinach during the last minute of cooking.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Healthy Pasta

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. For best freshness, consume within 24 hours of reheating.

5. Serving Suggestions for the Best Healthy Chicken Pasta

This healthy pasta dish pairs beautifully with a simple mixed greens salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or garlic bread made with whole grain baguette for a complete easy dinner. For dessert, consider a light and refreshing fruit salad or this decadent salted caramel apple pie cheesecake.

6. Frequently Asked Questions about Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond cream, and use dairy-free Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for cheese flavor.

What other vegetables can I add?

Spinach, cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or broccoli work wonderfully in this recipe, adding extra nutrition and flavor.

How long does it take to prepare?

This healthy chicken pasta meal can be prepared in approximately 30 minutes, making it perfect for quick, wholesome dinners.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, but keep in mind that the sauce may change texture upon thawing. Store in airtight containers and reheat gently on the stove.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Upgrade your cooking experience with these essential tools:

• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master: Perfect for prepping vegetables quickly and safely, making chopping garlic and spinach a breeze.
• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensures your pasta and chicken cook evenly without sticking, making cleanup easier.
• KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer: Handy for preparing sauces or even kneading homemade pasta dough if you want to make fresh pasta from scratch.
• Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker: Keeps your drinks chilled while enjoying your delicious healthy chicken pasta.

8. Tips to Make This Recipe Even Better

• Use fresh garlic and Parmesan cheese for maximum flavor.
• Adjust the creaminess by varying the amount of cream or broth.
• Incorporate your favorite vegetables to boost nutrition and color.
• For a spicy twist, add red pepper flakes during cooking.

9. Conclusion

This healthy chicken pasta recipe is an excellent way to enjoy a nutritious, flavorful, and satisfying dinner in just half an hour. Its creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, tender chicken, and hearty pasta make it a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight easy dinner or a nutritious meal to impress guests, this dish ticks all the boxes. Don’t forget to customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs for a personalized touch. Happy cooking!

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