Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Past is a flavourful, creamy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe features tender chicken breasts in a garlicky Parmesan sauce served over pasta, creating a comforting yet light meal. It’s easy to make with pantry staples and ready in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for beginner cooks. Pair it with my Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles for a garlic-lover’s feast!
Why You'll Love Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Past - Easy & Delicious Weeknight Meal
Enjoy this Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Past recipe, packed with flavor and simple to make. Perfect for quick, family-friendly dinners or meal prep nights!
- Quick and easy to prepare with simple ingredients
- Healthy twist on a classic creamy chicken pasta dish
- Perfectly balanced flavors with garlic and Parmesan
- Family-friendly and great for meal prep
Ingredients for Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Past - Easy & Delicious Weeknight Meal
Chicken breasts: Use fresh boneless skinless chicken breasts; turkey breast or chicken thighs can be swapped for variation.Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan offers the best melting and flavor; pre-grated works in a pinch.
- Chicken breasts: Use fresh boneless skinless chicken breasts; turkey breast or chicken thighs can be swapped for variation.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan offers the best melting and flavor; pre-grated works in a pinch.
Ingredient Note: Full measurements for Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Past - Easy & Delicious Weeknight Meal are listed in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Past - Easy & Delicious Weeknight Meal
Step 1 — Prep & Preheat
Cook the pasta: Boil salted water, add whole wheat penne, and cook al dente per package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2 — Cook and Build Flavor
Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken strips, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3 — Finish, Taste, and Adjust
Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle flour, stir to combine, then gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk. Bring to a simmer until sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
Expert Tips for Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Past - Easy & Delicious Weeknight Meal
- Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber and a healthier option.
- Don’t overcook chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
- Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley at the end for bright flavor.
Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Past - Easy & Delicious Weeknight Meal
Enjoy this Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Past recipe, packed with flavor and simple to make. Perfect for quick, family-friendly dinners or meal prep nights!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 8 oz whole wheat penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-fat milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Seasonings & Flavor Boosters
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
Optional Toppings
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
- Cherry tomatoes (halved)
Instructions
How to Make Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Past
- Cook the pasta: Boil salted water, add whole wheat penne, and cook al dente per package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken strips, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle flour, stir to combine, then gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk. Bring to a simmer until sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine everything: Stir grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes into the sauce until melted. Return chicken to the skillet and toss to coat. Add cooked pasta and mix well to combine. Garnish with fresh parsley and 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.
Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Past - Easy & Delicious Weeknight Meal FAQs
Yes! This dish can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Reheat gently to maintain creamy texture.
Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are great alternatives; nutritional yeast also works for a dairy-free twist.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to refresh the sauce.
Overcooking the chicken can cause dryness. Cook just until no longer pink and remove from heat promptly.
You Might Also Like
- Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles
- High-Protein Honey Garlic Shrimp
- Tuscan Shrimp (One-Pan, 30-Minute Dinner)
Before You Go
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