If you’re looking for a healthy pasta dinner that’s simple to make yet incredibly flavorful, this easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is the recipe you’ll want on repeat. It’s creamy and comforting without being heavy, making it perfect for weeknight cooking or even as a meal prep pasta for the week ahead. The combination of juicy chicken, a light garlic parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta hits all the right notes—flavorful, wholesome, and satisfying. Better yet, it’s one of those quick and easy meals that feels indulgent while still packing in lean protein. This dish proves weeknight dinners don’t have to be complicated to feel special at the table.
A Family Memory Around Pasta Nights
For me, pasta nights have always been more than just about food—they were little traditions that turned ordinary evenings into family memories. I remember sitting around the table as pots clattered in the kitchen, waiting for a steaming bowl of pasta to be served. No matter how busy the week got, a comforting pasta dinner always had a way of slowing us down and pulling everyone together.
When I started cooking on my own, I carried that tradition with me but wanted to create meals that didn’t just satisfy cravings—they needed to be balanced, too. That’s how easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta became such a staple in my house. It had everything I wanted: the creamy flavors I craved from childhood pasta nights, paired with juicy chicken for added protein. It’s the kind of dish that blends comfort and nourishment perfectly, making it a healthy pasta dinner I can feel good about serving any night of the week.
Let’s be honest—after a long day, the last thing most of us want is an overcomplicated recipe. That’s where this garlic parmesan chicken pasta really shines. It takes less time than waiting on takeout, and you don’t have to sacrifice taste for health. In about 30 minutes, you can enjoy a meal that feels restaurant-worthy but is tailored to your family’s preferences.
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Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for a Healthy Dinner
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is creamy, satisfying, and full of flavor — a quick go-to dinner that feels indulgent while still being made with wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
8 oz penne or whole wheat pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 cup milk (or light cream)
1 tablespoon flour (optional, for thickening)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until golden and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes.
3. Add garlic to the pan and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle in flour (if using), stir, then slowly add milk. Simmer and stir until slightly thickened.
5. Add parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
6. Toss in cooked pasta and season with salt and pepper.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for added nutrition or dietary preferences.
Add steamed broccoli or spinach for extra veggies.
Swap chicken with mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 440mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: garlic parmesan pasta, chicken pasta recipe, creamy pasta, healthy dinner, easy chicken pasta
The magic lies in how balanced it is: the creamy sauce coats the pasta without being too rich, the lean chicken keeps it high in protein, and it’s versatile enough that even picky eaters love it. Best of all, it fits beautifully into a lineup of quick and easy healthy dinner recipes. Whether you’re planning ahead for busy nights or just need something cozy on the table fast, this dish proves you can have both flavor and nutrition in a single bowl.
Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Ingredients List
One of the reasons this dish earns a spot as a healthy pasta dinner is that each ingredient brings both flavor and nutritional value. While it feels indulgent, the balance of lean protein, whole carbs, and just the right amount of healthy fats makes this truly a high protein chicken pasta you can feel good about. Below is a simple, organized table to help you prep quickly:
| Ingredient | Amount | Why It’s Healthy & Flavorful |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 2 large (1 lb/450g) | Lean, high-quality protein source |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | Heart-healthy fats and flavor for sautéing |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 4 | Boosts immunity, adds depth of flavor |
| Whole wheat or high-protein pasta | 12 oz (340g) | More fiber and sustained energy |
| Low-sodium chicken broth | 1 cup | Adds flavor with less sodium |
| Milk (2% or almond) | 1 cup | Lighter creaminess without excess fat |
| Fresh Parmesan cheese | ¾ cup | Flavorful, adds calcium and protein |
| Spinach (optional) | 2 cups | Extra nutrients and freshness |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Essential seasoning |
| Red pepper flakes | ½ tsp (opt.) | Subtle heat |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tbsp | Brightness and color |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil salted water, cook pasta to al dente, reserve ½ cup water, then drain.
- Prepare the chicken: Season with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in skillet, cook chicken 5–6 min each side. Let rest, slice thin.
- Make the sauce: In same skillet, sauté garlic in olive oil for 1–2 min. Add broth and milk, simmer, whisk in parmesan. Adjust with pasta water.
- Combine: Toss pasta and spinach in sauce, add chicken slices, season to taste.
- Garnish: Sprinkle parsley and extra parmesan before serving.
Meal prep tip: Store cooled portions in airtight containers. Reheat with a splash of milk or broth to bring creaminess back.
A High Protein Chicken Pasta That Fuels You
This easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta isn’t just delicious—it’s balanced, too. Lean chicken provides protein, pasta delivers complex carbs, and parmesan adds both flavor and healthy fats. It’s light enough for weeknights but satisfying enough to keep you energized.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~430 | Balanced range for dinner |
| Protein | ~36 g | Supports muscles, keeps you full |
| Carbs | ~45 g | Steady energy for body and brain |
| Fat | ~12 g | Flavorful, aids absorption |
| Fiber | ~6 g | Digestion support, satiety |
| Sodium | ~550 mg | Moderate, controlled with low-sodium broth |
Nutrition tip: Swap in chickpea or lentil pasta to increase protein even more.
How to Store and Reheat for Meal Prep Pasta
- Refrigerate: Store cooled portions in airtight containers for 3–4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months, ensuring pasta is cooled first.
- Reheat: Add 1–2 tbsp broth or milk, heat in microwave at 60-sec intervals or on stovetop, stirring to revive creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make garlic parmesan chicken pasta ahead for meal prep?
Yes, store portions in airtight containers up to 4 days. Add a splash of broth or milk when reheating.
2. What pasta works best?
Whole wheat, chickpea, or lentil-based pastas boost nutrition. Penne and rotini hold sauce well.
3. Can I substitute cream?
Yes, use 2% milk, almond milk, or stir in Greek yogurt for lighter creaminess.
4. How to keep chicken juicy?
Cook to 165°F (74°C) and rest before slicing to lock in juices.
5. Is this good for weight loss meal prep?
Yes—portion properly, use high-protein pasta, and pair with vegetables or salad.
6. What vegetables can I add?
Spinach, broccoli, zucchini, and bell peppers are great add-ins.
A Bowl of Comfort for Every Weeknight
This easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta proves healthy can also be comforting. With lean chicken, creamy but light sauce, and optional veggies, it delivers flavor and nutrition in every bite. It’s perfect for families, busy weeknights, and those who love planning ahead with meal prep pasta.
The next time you’re tempted by takeout, try this wholesome bowl of healthy pasta dinner instead. It’s quick, satisfying, high in protein, and exactly the kind of comfort food that turns an ordinary evening into something special.
