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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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This creamy, garlicky chicken pasta is a healthy, high-protein dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes. Juicy chicken, fresh garlic, and Parmesan cheese create a comforting yet light meal perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 8 ounces whole wheat or regular pasta (penne, spaghetti, or rotini)
  • 4–5 fresh garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 cups baby spinach (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Zest from 1 lemon (optional)
  • Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the ingredients: Cut chicken into bite-sized chunks, mince garlic, grate Parmesan, zest lemon if using, and gather spinach and other ingredients.
  2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
  3. Brown the chicken: While pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate and cover loosely.
  4. Sauté the garlic: Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the skillet. Add minced garlic and stir constantly for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  5. Make the sauce: Pour in chicken broth, scraping up browned bits. Simmer for 2 minutes. Lower heat and stir in Parmesan and Greek yogurt, whisking until cheese melts and sauce is creamy. Add reserved pasta water as needed to thin.
  6. Combine: Add cooked pasta and chicken (plus any juices) back to the skillet. Toss to coat in sauce. Stir in spinach until wilted, if using. Season with more salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Finish with lemon zest and parsley.
  7. Serve: Plate hot, garnished with extra Parmesan, lemon zest, and parsley if desired.

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan and room temperature chicken. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Easily adapted for gluten-free or dairy-free diets. Add extra veggies or swap chicken for beans for a vegetarian version. Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days; add a splash of broth when reheating.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic parmesan chicken pasta, healthy chicken pasta, easy weeknight dinner, creamy chicken pasta, high protein pasta, Italian chicken pasta, family dinner, meal prep pasta

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/garlic-parmesan-chicken-pasta-recipe-easy-healthy-dinner-idea/