Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Healthy Dinner is a simple, flavorful dish that combines juicy chicken, al dente pasta, and a creamy parmesan garlic sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick, wholesome weeknight meal. The garlic and parmesan create a rich, comforting flavor without heavy cream, keeping it light yet satisfying. Pair it with my creamy high protein beef pasta for more delicious dinner ideas.
Why You'll Love Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Healthy Dinner You'll Love
Make a quick and healthy dinner with this Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Healthy Dinner—perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
- Ready in under 40 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
- Uses pantry staples and fresh ingredients for easy preparation.
- Healthy balance of protein, carbs, and fats with lean chicken breast.
- Comforting creamy garlic parmesan flavor without heavy cream.
Ingredients for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Healthy Dinner You'll Love
Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless for lean protein. Substitute with chicken thighs for juicier meat.Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess with less fat; substitute with light sour cream or omit for dairy-free.
- Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless for lean protein. Substitute with chicken thighs for juicier meat.
- Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess with less fat; substitute with light sour cream or omit for dairy-free.
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: Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
Step 2 — Cook and Build Flavor
Sauté the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cubed chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet; set aside.
Step 3 — Finish, Taste, and Adjust
Make garlic sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using. Cook 1 minute until fragrant. Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Expert Tips for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Healthy Dinner You'll Love
- Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente texture holds up best when tossed in sauce.
- Add spinach at the end for extra nutrition and vibrant color.
- For a thicker sauce, simmer a few extra minutes to reduce liquid.
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Healthy Dinner You'll Love
Make a quick and healthy dinner with this Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Healthy Dinner—perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz whole wheat or regular penne pasta
- 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Seasonings & Flavor Boosters
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or a mix of oregano and basil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Optional Toppings
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Freshly cracked black pepper
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley
Instructions
How to Make Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Healthy Dinner
- Cook the pasta: Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Sauté the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cubed chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet; set aside.
- Make garlic sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using. Cook 1 minute until fragrant. Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Finish the sauce: Lower heat and stir in grated Parmesan and Greek yogurt until smooth. Add baby spinach if desired and cook until wilted.
- Combine and serve: Return chicken to skillet, add cooked pasta, and toss to coat evenly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve warm.
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, you can prep the chicken and sauce in advance. Store separately from pasta and combine when reheating for best texture.
You can use light sour cream or cream cheese, or omit it altogether and add a splash of milk for creaminess.
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Pasta and chicken freeze well separately for longer storage.
Chicken cooks quickly; avoid overcooking by monitoring time and cooking until just no longer pink inside. Cubing helps cook evenly.
You Might Also Like
Before You Go
If you try this Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Healthy Dinner You'll Love, I'd love for you to leave a rating or share how you customized it.