Heavenly Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for a Nourishing Dinner 🍝🧄🧀
1. Introduction
Looking for a healthy chicken pasta recipe that is both easy to prepare and packed with flavor? This garlic parmesan chicken pasta is the perfect answer. It combines tender pieces of chicken, fragrant garlic, and melted Parmesan cheese with perfectly cooked pasta for a nutritious and satisfying easy healthy dinner. Whether you’re meal prepping or just craving comfort food, this recipe is versatile, delicious, and wholesome. Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible nutritious pasta recipe that will quickly become a family favorite.
2. Ingredients
- 8 oz whole wheat or regular pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup spinach leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
3. Step-by-step Instructions for Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Preparation of Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Mince the garlic and slice the chicken breasts into strips. Measure out the Parmesan cheese and prepare your vegetables.
Cooking the Pasta
Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sautéing the Chicken and Garlic
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Combining the Ingredients
Reduce heat to low. Add cherry tomatoes and spinach to the skillet, stirring until the vegetables wilt. Mix in the cooked pasta, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Toss everything until well combined and heated through.
Finishing Touches
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor.
4. Storage Tips & Make-Ahead Ideas for Healthy Chicken Pasta
This nutritious pasta recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist. For a make-ahead meal, prepare the components in advance and assemble just before serving.
5. Serving Suggestions for a Complete Healthy Dinner
Pair this garlic parmesan chicken pasta with a light side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded, easy healthy dinner. It also complements a glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing touch. For extra flavor, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or a squeeze of fresh lemon over the dish.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I substitute chicken with a vegetarian option?
Yes! You can replace chicken with sautéed tofu, tempeh, or even grilled vegetables to keep this dish vegetarian.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free pasta instead of regular to make this recipe friendly for gluten-sensitive diets.
How long does it take to prepare this healthy chicken pasta?
The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes, making it an easy healthy dinner option for busy weeknights.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes during cooking to give it a spicy kick.
7. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe
Equipping yourself with the right kitchen tools can make cooking this healthy chicken pasta even easier:
- CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – This high-quality set ensures even heat distribution and prevents sticking, making pasta and chicken sautéing a breeze.
- Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker – Perfect for preparing components ahead of time if you like to meal prep.
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Make chopping garlic and vegetables faster and safer with this versatile kitchen tool.
- Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 – Great for adding crispy textures to chicken or vegetables in your healthy dinners.
8. Conclusion
This nutritious pasta recipe with garlic and Parmesan offers the perfect balance of flavor and health benefits. It’s an easy healthy dinner idea that comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Whether you’re aiming to eat healthier or simply want a comforting dish, this healthy chicken pasta recipe is sure to impress. Experiment with toppings, add your favorite veggies, and enjoy a delightful meal that nourishes both body and soul.
9. Call to Action
Ready to elevate your dinner game? Try this heavenly garlic parmesan chicken pasta today and explore more delicious recipes at Spoonella. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations and subscribe for more tasty inspiration!
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Heavenly Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for a Nourishing Dinner
A flavorful and nutritious garlic parmesan chicken pasta dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and al dente pasta all in one bowl. Perfect for weeknight dinners or healthy gatherings.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 8 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter option
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken cubes, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in heavy cream or Greek yogurt, stirring constantly. Add grated Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Return chicken to the skillet, toss to coat in the sauce. Add cooked pasta, mixing well.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and lemon wedges for extra flavor.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
- Adjust garlic and cheese quantities to suit your taste.
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Healthy, High-Protein
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 520 Kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
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