Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Delight 🍝🧄🧀✨
1. Introduction
Are you craving a flavorful yet healthy chicken pasta recipe that comes together quickly and satisfies your taste buds? Look no further than this Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta delight! Combining tender bits of chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich garlic and parmesan sauce, this dish is perfect for weeknights or weekend dinners. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy a nutritious, homemade meal.
2. Ingredients for the Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- 8 oz (225g) of whole wheat or regular pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup spinach or kale, chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Preparing the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cooking the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Season the cubed chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Creating the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the chicken broth or white wine and bring to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce thickens slightly. Add red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of spice.
Combining Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the cherry tomatoes and chopped spinach. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through. Toss in the cooked pasta and mix thoroughly to coat everything in the flavorful sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed. For best results, consume fresh, but leftovers can still be delicious for a quick lunch or dinner later in the week.
5. Serving Suggestions for Your Chicken Pasta Recipe
Serve this garlic chicken pasta dish with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Add a side of crusty bread or garlic bread for extra indulgence. Pair it with a light white wine or sparkling water infused with lemon for a complete dining experience.
6. Frequently Asked Questions about Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Can I substitute chicken with turkey or tofu?
Absolutely! Use cooked turkey or tofu cubes to make this dish suitable for different dietary preferences while maintaining the rich protein content.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes, replace regular pasta with gluten-free pasta options available at most stores. This way, you can enjoy a healthy chicken pasta dish without gluten.
How long does it take to prepare this meal?
The entire process takes approximately 30 minutes, making it a perfect quick and nutritious dinner.
What are some low-fat modifications?
Use reduced-fat Parmesan cheese, skip the heavy cream, and opt for olive oil instead of butter for a healthier twist.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
Equip yourself with top-quality kitchen tools to enhance your cooking experience. Consider the CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set to ensure easy cooking and cleaning, or the Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master for perfectly chopping your spinach and tomatoes. For making creamy sauces, a good KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer can be a great aid. Upgrading your kitchen tools will make your meal prep smoother and more enjoyable.
8. Related recipes to enhance your meal repertoire
9. Conclusion
This Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe combines nutritious ingredients with bold flavors and simple techniques, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual dinners. The balance of garlic, parmesan, and fresh vegetables elevates the classic pasta dish while keeping it wholesome and satisfying. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious, homemade chicken pasta recipe that everyone will love!
Print
Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Delight
A delicious and healthy garlic parmesan chicken pasta dish that combines tender grilled chicken, flavorful garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, ideal for a quick nutritious dinner.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 boneless chicken breasts, sliced
- 8 oz spaghetti or preferred pasta
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken slices and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; stir until cheese melts and sauce thickens.
- Return chicken to the skillet, toss with sauce, and combine with cooked pasta.
- Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust garlic amount for a milder or stronger flavor.
- You can use cooked rotisserie chicken for faster preparation.
- For a lighter version, substitute cream with skim milk or Greek yogurt.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Healthy, Kid-friendly
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 520 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg