Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Delight 🍝🧄🧀 – Nutritious and Wholesome
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a healthy chicken pasta recipe that combines bold flavors with nutritious ingredients, you’ve come to the right place. This wholesome chicken pasta dish is packed with tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and creamy parmesan, all cooked in a way that highlights health without sacrificing taste. Perfect for any weeknight dinner or meal prep, this nutritious chicken pasta will become a family favorite in no time.
2. Ingredients for Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For convenience, check this slow cooker recipe for an easy alternative.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Nutritious Chicken Pasta
Prepare the Pasta
Cook the whole wheat pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Garlic and Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes until slightly softened. Stir in fresh spinach until wilted.
Combine and Finish
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine. Heat through for 2-3 minutes, then add the cooked pasta and parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until well coated and heated through. Garnish with chopped parsley.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Nutritious Chicken Pasta
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals or warm on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain moisture.
5. Serving Suggestions for Wholesome Chicken Pasta
This healthy chicken pasta pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. Add a sprinkle of extra parmesan or a squeeze of lemon for added freshness. For a complete meal, consider serving with some crusty whole grain bread.
6. FAQs about Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be substituted for breasts. They tend to be juicier and add a richer flavor to the dish.
Is there a dairy-free version?
Absolutely! Use nutritional yeast or dairy-free parmesan substitutes to make this dish dairy-free while maintaining cheesy flavor.
How long does it take to prepare?
From start to finish, this nutritious chicken pasta can be prepared in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Make chopping garlic and vegetables quick and easy, enhancing your cooking experience.
- CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – Ensures your pots and pans are durable and easy to clean, perfect for this wholesome pasta dish.
- Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 – If you prefer healthier chicken cooking methods, try air frying the chicken for extra crispness.
8. Additional Tips to Enhance Your Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Use high-quality whole wheat pasta to boost fiber content.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Replace parmesan with nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly option.
- Introduce other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for variety.
9. Conclusion
This healthy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is not only a delightful meal that combines nutrition with incredible flavor, but it’s also quick and simple to prepare. It embodies wholesome ingredients, making it perfect for anyone aiming to eat healthily without sacrificing deliciousness. Try this recipe today and enjoy a nutritious pasta dish that your whole family will love!
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Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Delight
This garlic parmesan chicken pasta combines tender grilled chicken with a creamy parmesan sauce, served over al dente pasta. It is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner option suitable for any day of the week.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 8 oz (225 g) pasta (penne or spaghetti)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken strips with salt and pepper, then cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Reduce heat to low, stir in heavy cream or Greek yogurt, and cook for 2 minutes.
- Mix in grated parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Ensure pasta is drained well to prevent the sauce from becoming too watery.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Healthy
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 520 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
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