Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you’re searching for a cozy, flavorful dinner that won’t weigh you down, the Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is about to become your new obsession! Picture fork-tender chicken, fresh garlic, and a heavenly sprinkle of real Parmesan—all laced through a bed of al dente whole wheat pasta. What’s even more delightful? This dish strikes that elusive balance between indulgent comfort food and wholesome nutrition. The blend of roasted garlic and nutty Parmesan offers richness, while lean chicken breast and vibrant greens bring lightness. It’s the ultimate win-win you’ll crave all week!

Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe shines because it uses a curated list of simple, fresh ingredients. Each one has a distinct role, contributing to the final dish’s beautiful balance of savory, creamy, and bright notes.

  • Chicken breast: Go for boneless, skinless chicken breast for a lean, protein-packed bite that stays juicy when cooked right.
  • Whole wheat pasta: Adds fiber and a pleasantly nutty backdrop, holding up nicely to the creamy sauce.
  • Fresh garlic: The unmistakable star! Sautéed garlic creates irresistible aroma and deep flavor without excess calories.
  • Parmesan cheese: Use freshly grated for the best melt and that signature Parmesan umami punch.
  • Olive oil: Lends a fruity richness to both the chicken and the sauce, plus it’s full of healthy fats.
  • Chicken broth: Helps build a luscious yet light sauce, infusing savory depth.
  • Baby spinach: Tossed in at the end for a pop of color and a boost of vitamins—feel free to add extra for even more nutrition.
  • Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional, but a sprinkle adds a wonderful gentle heat to complement the garlic.
  • Salt and black pepper: Bring all the flavors into harmony, so don’t skip the seasoning!

How to Make Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Begin by patting the chicken breast dry, then slice into thin strips or bite-sized pieces for even, speedy cooking. Season generously with salt and black pepper to set the stage for the flavors to shine later on.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Get your whole wheat pasta going in a pot of boiling salted water. Cook until it’s perfectly al dente—this keeps the final dish pleasingly toothsome and avoids sogginess. Don’t forget to reserve a little pasta water before draining!

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Sauté the minced garlic until just fragrant—be careful not to burn it! Add the chicken and cook until golden on the outside and juicy within, tossing frequently to pick up that garlicky depth.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and let it bubble, stirring up any golden bits from the pan for heightened flavor. Reduce the heat and stir in most of the grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into a silky, light sauce. If it’s too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Toss Everything Together

Add the drained pasta and baby spinach straight into the pan. Toss everything until the spinach is just wilted and the sauce cloaks every strand of pasta—so simple, yet so satisfying! Sprinkle with more Parmesan and, if you love a little kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes.

How to Serve Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Giving your Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe a final flourish transforms each bowl into a restaurant-worthy meal. Top with extra Parmesan, fresh cracked black pepper, and maybe a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil. Lemon zest is also fantastic for pop and aroma.

Side Dishes

You really can’t go wrong with a crisp Caesar or mixed green salad for contrast, or some steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or garlic green beans to keep the meal light but hearty. If you’re feeling a little indulgent, garlic bread on the side is always a crowd-pleaser.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the pasta nestled in pretty shallow bowls, perhaps with a twist of pasta atop, chicken layered artfully, and a vibrant sprinkle of greens. For a fun twist, you could even try spooning the pasta into hollowed-out roasted red peppers or zucchini boats for easy entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe keeps nicely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making for a fantastic second-day lunch or dinner.

Freezing

The pasta and sauce freeze surprisingly well—simply cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results, as abrupt temperature changes can affect the texture of the chicken and pasta.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to help revive the sauce and prevent drying out. Stir frequently so the cheese melts evenly. For quick reheating, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While whole wheat pasta is a fantastic choice for extra fiber and flavor, feel free to swap in your favorite pasta shape, including gluten-free varieties, chickpea pasta, or even spiralized veggies for a lower-carb version.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely—simply omit the chicken and double up on baby spinach or add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted chickpeas for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep everything plant-based.

What’s the best way to keep chicken tender?

Cutting the chicken into even pieces helps, and avoid overcooking by just cooking until the pieces are golden but still juicy inside. A quick sauté over medium-high heat usually does the trick!

Does this pasta taste garlicky?

Yes, but in a beautifully balanced way! The garlic provides a robust flavor without overpowering the creamy sauce or Parmesan. If you like an even bolder garlic presence, feel free to add an extra clove or two.

Can I prep Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe ahead of time?

You sure can! Prep the chicken and garlic early, and even cook your pasta ahead. The assembled dish can be kept in the fridge and simply reheated when you’re ready to enjoy a low-fuss, high-flavor meal.

Final Thoughts

If you love recipes that deliver big flavor with wholesome ingredients, you really have to try this Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe. Every bite bursts with comforting creaminess, golden chicken, and just the right punch of garlic. You’ll be amazed at how simple, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing it really is!

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Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe


  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta recipe is a delicious and nutritious twist on a classic favorite. Tender chicken breast is coated in a flavorful garlic parmesan sauce and served over a bed of whole wheat pasta, making it a satisfying and wholesome meal for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

  • 8 oz whole wheat pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Sprinkle parmesan cheese over the chicken.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
  4. Serve: Slice the chicken and serve over the garlic parmesan pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • Feel free to add some cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra color and nutrients.
  • You can use whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a different twist.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, Healthy Pasta Recipe, Chicken Pasta, Garlic Parmesan Chicken

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