Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
A comforting dish combining tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a creamy garlic parmesan sauce, perfect for cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces Pasta of choice (whole wheat or gluten-free) A hearty base for your dish.
- 1 pound Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces) Lean protein to keep you satisfied.
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced) The aromatic star that sets the flavor profile.
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated) Adds that creamy, indulgent touch.
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil (for sautéing) Offers a rich flavor and healthy fats.
- 2 cups Fresh spinach (or broccoli) A nutritional powerhouse that brightens up your plate.
- 1 cup Heavy cream (or substitute with coconut milk) To achieve that luscious sauce.
- Salt and pepper (to taste) Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon Red pepper flakes (optional) For those who like a little kick!
Instructions
Cooking
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes.
- Toss in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Reduce heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well, then sprinkle in the parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and thicken slightly.
- Gently fold in the spinach (or your choice of veggies). Allow them to wilt, stirring everything together to create a creamy, indulgent sauce.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning, if necessary. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Serve warm, garnished with extra parmesan and freshly cracked pepper.
Notes
For an extra layer of flavor, add fresh herbs like basil or parsley. Swap in sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist. Use zucchini noodles as a pasta substitute for a lower-carb option.