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A close-up of a plate of creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta featuring tender pasta coated in a rich, cheesy sauce with slices of golden-brown grilled chicken on top, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, all beautifully plated on a white dish with a rustic wooden table background.

Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Healthy Dinner

  • Author: Maria
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: High-protein, Nut-Free

Description

Enjoy a healthy and delicious dinner with our Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe. This creamy pasta dish combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and flavorful garlic Parmesan sauce, making it perfect for a wholesome weeknight meal. Quick to prepare and packed with protein, it’s the ideal choice for a satisfying and nutritious dinner that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
  • 8 oz (about 225g) of your favorite pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free version
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Adjust with reserved pasta water if needed.
  4. Add the cooked pasta and chicken into the skillet. Toss to combine and coat with the sauce. Season with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for optimal flavor and meltability.
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency and enhance flavor.
  • Substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or almond milk for a lighter version.
  • Ensure chicken is cooked until golden for the best taste and texture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 520 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 58g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

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Find it online: https://recipeswonders.com/easy-garlic-parmesan-chicken-pasta-recipe-for-a-healthy-dinner/