Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Healthy Dinner is a flavorful, creamy dish that’s surprisingly simple to make. With tender chicken, garlicky parmesan sauce, and al dente pasta, it’s comfort food made healthy and accessible. The dish comes together in under an hour using pantry staples, perfect for beginners and busy cooks alike. Pair it with my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs and Potatoes for a protein-packed ensemble.
Why You'll Love Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Healthy Dinner You’ll Love
Discover this Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Healthy Dinner that’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights. Ready in 40 minutes!
- Ready in just 40 minutes for quick weeknight dinners.
- Uses simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.
- Healthy, balanced meal with lean chicken and whole grain pasta option.
- Creamy garlic parmesan sauce that’s rich but light on calories.
Ingredients for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Healthy Dinner You’ll Love
Chicken breasts: use boneless skinless for quick cooking; thighs can be substituted but may add more fat.Pasta: whole wheat adds fiber; regular or gluten-free pasta can be used.
- Chicken breasts: use boneless skinless for quick cooking; thighs can be substituted but may add more fat.
- Pasta: whole wheat adds fiber; regular or gluten-free pasta can be used.
Ingredient Note: Full measurements for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Healthy Dinner You’ll Love are listed in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Healthy Dinner You’ll Love
Step 1 — Prep & Preheat
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2 — Cook and Build Flavor
Sauté the chicken: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
Step 3 — Finish, Taste, and Adjust
Make the sauce: Lower the heat to medium. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet; sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and milk, stirring to combine. Gradually sprinkle in Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted. Add cornstarch slurry to thicken sauce; cook for 2-3 minutes until sauce coats the back of a spoon.
Expert Tips for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Healthy Dinner You’ll Love
- Do not overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- Add spinach at the end to preserve its bright color and nutrients.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and melt quality.
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Healthy Dinner You’ll Love
Discover this Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Healthy Dinner that’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights. Ready in 40 minutes!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 8 oz whole wheat penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (2% or unsweetened almond milk)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (slurry)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
Seasonings & Flavor Boosters
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
Optional Toppings
- Extra grated Parmesan
- Fresh lemon zest for brightness
- Toasted pine nuts or almonds
Instructions
How to Make Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Healthy Dinner
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the chicken: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
- Make the sauce: Lower the heat to medium. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet; sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and milk, stirring to combine. Gradually sprinkle in Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted. Add cornstarch slurry to thicken sauce; cook for 2-3 minutes until sauce coats the back of a spoon.
- Combine and finish: Add cooked pasta and chopped spinach to the skillet. Toss everything together until spinach wilts and pasta is evenly coated. Adjust salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve hot.
Nutrition (per serving)
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended (texture changes).
- Serve/Reheat: Best chilled or at room temperature.
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Healthy Dinner You’ll Love FAQs
Yes, it reheats well for next-day meals. Store in fridge up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
You can use boneless skinless chicken thighs, turkey, or even cooked shrimp for variation.
Transfer leftovers to airtight containers and refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
Make sure to cook pasta al dente and drain well. Overcooking or adding too much sauce at once can cause sogginess.
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