Hey there! If you’re looking for an easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe, you’ve come to the right place. This dish is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep, making it a great option for busy families like mine. Just last week, my son Jake asked if we could have pasta for dinner again, and I knew this recipe would make him happy while keeping it healthy.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- It’s a quick and easy healthy dinner recipe that everyone will enjoy.
- Packed with protein, it’s perfect for meal prep and weight loss.
- You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver on busy nights.
- The Garlic Parmesan flavor is simply irresistible!
Pure Comfort
This dish is pure comfort food with its creamy sauce and tender chicken. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in a warm hug after a long day.
What You Need
- 8 oz 8 oz whole wheat pasta – You can substitute with gluten-free pasta if needed.
- 1 lb 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Cut into bite-sized pieces.
- 2 tbsp 2 tbsp olive oil – Can use avocado oil as a substitute.
- 4 cloves 4 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic gives the best flavor.
- 1 cup 1 cup chicken broth – Low-sodium is a healthier choice.
- 1 cup 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Feel free to use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
- 1 tsp 1 tsp Italian seasoning – You can use dried oregano or basil as alternatives.
- to taste Salt and pepper to taste – Adjust according to your preference.
Time to Cook
Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 15 minutes | Total: 25 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, this dish is great for meal prep.
Steps to Make It
- Start by cooking the whole wheat pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, letting the steam escape to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. You’ll know it’s ready when the kitchen smells amazing.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes until the broth reduces slightly, thickening the sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, mixing until the cheese melts and coats the pasta.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy the creamy goodness!
Make It Perfect
- To save time, cook the pasta and chicken ahead of time and store them separately until you’re ready to mix.
- If you want to spice things up, add some red pepper flakes for a kick.
- This recipe is easily customizable; feel free to toss in your favorite veggies like spinach or bell peppers.
Mix It Up
- For a lighter version, use zucchini noodles instead of pasta.
- Try adding sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor.
- Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
Perfect Partners
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Pair with garlic bread for an extra treat.
- A glass of white wine complements this dish beautifully.
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FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prep. Just store it in the fridge for up to 4 days.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze this pasta?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
What can I substitute for chicken?
You can use turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Is this recipe good for weight loss?
Absolutely! It’s a healthy protein pasta meal prep option that can help with weight loss.
Conclusion
This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe is not just a meal; it’s a family favorite that brings everyone together. With its healthy ingredients and quick prep time, it’s perfect for busy nights or meal prep. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation!
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Equipment
- Large Skillet
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 8 oz oz whole wheat pasta Substitute with gluten-free pasta if needed.
- 1 lb lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts Cut into bite-sized pieces.
- 2 tbsp tbsp olive oil Avocado oil can be used as a substitute.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic gives the best flavor.
- 1 cup cup chicken broth Low-sodium is a healthier choice.
- 1 cup cup grated Parmesan cheese Use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
- 1 tsp tsp Italian seasoning Dried oregano or basil can be used as alternatives.
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to your preference.
Instructions
- Start by cooking the whole wheat pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, letting the steam escape to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes until the broth reduces slightly, thickening the sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, mixing until the cheese melts and coats the pasta.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.