Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Healthy Dinner

Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Dinner Delight 🍝🧄🧀✨

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a flavorful, nutritious, and satisfying healthy chicken pasta dish, look no further! This healthy garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe combines juicy chicken, aromatic garlic, and cheesy parmesan for an incredible meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to indulge in comfort food without the guilt. You can also explore more delightful recipes like the creamy garlic shrimp on fluffy mashed potatoes or the hearty crockpot chicken enchilada casserole for additional inspiration.

2. Ingredients for this healthful garlic parmesan chicken pasta dish

• 8 oz whole wheat pasta or your favorite pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

3. How to make this healthy garlic parmesan chicken pasta

Step 1: Cook the 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

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the sliced chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the garlic and tomatoes

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they soften.

Step 4: Combine everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add cooked pasta and toss to combine. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top, stirring until melted and creamy. Garnish with fresh basil and, if desired, red pepper flakes.

4. Storage tips for leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the pasta moist, consider adding a splash of water or chicken broth before reheating. You can reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

5. Serving suggestions for your healthy garlic parmesan chicken pasta

This dish pairs beautifully with a light side salad, such as the Asian cucumber salad. For extra flavor, serve with garlic bread or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s a complete meal that will satisfy your cravings while remaining healthy.

6. Frequently asked questions about this healthy chicken pasta recipe

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be substituted for breasts. Just ensure they are cooked thoroughly, as thighs tend to be juicier and might take slightly longer.

Is this dish suitable for a low-carb diet?

This recipe uses traditional pasta, but you can swap it out for spiralized zucchini or Shirataki noodles for a low-carb version.

How quick is this recipe to prepare?

From start to finish, this healthy chicken pasta dinner takes approximately 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set: These nonstick pans help cook the chicken perfectly without sticking, making your cooking experience more enjoyable.
• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master: Perfect for chopping garlic and basil quickly and uniformly.
• Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker: As an alternative, you can prepare the chicken using a slow cooker for more tender results.

8. Health benefits of this garlic parmesan chicken pasta dish

This healthy chicken pasta dish provides high-quality protein from chicken, fiber from whole wheat pasta, and antioxidants from fresh vegetables. The use of fresh garlic and basil enhances immune health, making this a nutritious meal option for maintaining overall wellness.

9. Conclusion

Enjoy this incredible healthy garlic parmesan chicken pasta as your go-to dinner during busy weekdays or relaxed weekends. It combines the goodness of lean protein, whole grains, and fresh ingredients for a balanced, satisfying meal. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or spice levels for a personalized touch. Happy cooking!

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