Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta

Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta is a delightful one-pan dish that combines tender chicken with the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan cheese, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends and family. Its simplicity and robust taste make it a favorite among many. Plus, it’s a healthy option that doesn’t compromise on flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavorful: The combination of garlic pepper and parmesan creates a mouthwatering flavor that will impress everyone at the table.
• Healthy Option: With lean chicken breast and reduced-fat cheese, this recipe is a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping in different pasta types.
• One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in one pan not only simplifies the process but also minimizes cleanup.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to whip up this delicious Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Resealable bag or container
• Microwave (for pasta)
• Mixing bowl
• Nonstick cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows even cooking of the chicken, ensuring it stays juicy while developing flavor.
• Resealable bag: Great for marinating chicken, ensuring every piece is coated without mess.
• Microwave: Perfect for quick cooking of ready pasta, saving time during meal prep.

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Ingredients

A one-pan recipe for garlic parmesan chicken with a simple pasta. 

For the Chicken

• 1 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Tenderloins, cut into bite-size pieces
• 1 Tbsp Garlic Pepper
• 2 Tbsp (15g) Reduced Fat Grated Parmesan Cheese
• 1/4-1/2 tsp Crushed Red Pepper, based on spice preference

For the Pasta

• 1 bag (8.5 oz) Barilla Ready Pasta Rotini, or your choice of pasta
• 15 oz can Tomato Sauce

For Flavoring

• 2 Tbsp Garlic Pepper
• 1 Tbsp Granular Sugar Substitute, like stevia or Swerve
• 1/2 tsp Crushed Red Pepper, omit if you’re sensitive to spice

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Mix the garlic pepper, parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper in a resealable bag or container. Set aside.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces before adding them to the resealable container. Shake or stir until fully coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes; longer marination enhances flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with nonstick cooking spray. Once hot, add the marinated chicken, spreading it evenly in the pan. Leave untouched for about 4 minutes before flipping. Cook another 2-3 minutes after flipping until no pink remains.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce and Pasta

While cooking the chicken, microwave the Ready Pasta according to package instructions. In a bowl, mix tomato sauce with additional garlic pepper, sweetener, and crushed red pepper.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta and tomato sauce mixture to the skillet with cooked chicken. Stir everything together and simmer for a few minutes until heated through.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from heat and top with optional shredded mozzarella before serving warm.

This Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta is not only easy to make but also packed with protein! Enjoy it as a wholesome dinner option any night of the week!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta

Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you prefer it as a main course or a part of a bigger spread, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Family Style

• Serve the pasta directly from the skillet for a rustic presentation. This method encourages everyone to dig in and share.

Individual Bowls

• Portion the pasta into individual bowls for a more formal setting. Top each bowl with additional parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for added flavor.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish the pasta with freshly chopped basil or parsley. This not only adds color but also enhances the dish’s aroma and flavor profile.

Pair with a Salad

• Serve alongside a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast. A simple vinaigrette complements the garlic parmesan flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta

To make your Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta even better, consider these helpful tips. They’ll ensure your dish turns out just right every time.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for longer than 30 minutes can deepen the flavors significantly.
• Cook Chicken Evenly: Ensure all chicken pieces are similar in size to cook evenly and avoid any undercooked spots.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and high-quality parmesan cheese for enhanced taste and texture.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the amount of crushed red pepper based on your spice preference, making it suitable for everyone at the table.
• Add Vegetables: Consider tossing in some sautéed spinach or broccoli to add nutrition and color to your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta

Complementing your Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta with side dishes can round out your meal perfectly. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic pairing, garlic bread offers a crunchy texture and buttery flavor that complements the pasta nicely.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables add both nutrition and vibrant colors, enhancing presentation and balance.

4. Steamed Asparagus
   Lightly steamed asparagus adds elegance and pairs well with garlic flavors, creating a sophisticated side.

5. Caprese Skewers
   Cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella on skewers offer a delightful bite-sized option that brightens up the plate.

6. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing gives an nutritious boost alongside the hearty pasta.

7. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that can balance out the richness of the pasta dish.

8. Fruit Salad
   A fresh fruit salad adds sweetness and freshness, making it an ideal light side option that cleanses the palate after rich flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of the dish. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Overcooking the Chicken – Cooking the chicken too long can lead to dryness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for juicy results.
• Skipping the Marinade – Not marinating the chicken can result in bland flavors. Take time to let the chicken soak up the garlic pepper and parmesan for enhanced taste.
• Ignoring Pasta Cook Times – Cooking pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions precisely for perfectly al dente pasta.
• Not Adjusting Spice Levels – If you’re sensitive to heat, starting with too much crushed red pepper can overwhelm the dish. Always taste and adjust spice according to your preference.
• Using Cold Ingredients – Adding cold pasta or sauce directly from the fridge can cool down your dish. Warm everything up before combining for a better end result.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The dish will maintain its best quality for about 2-3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop – In a skillet over low heat, add a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking and warm gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta, we have answers!

What is Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta?

Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta is a delicious one-pan meal featuring tender chicken pieces coated in garlic pepper and parmesan cheese served with pasta.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute your favorite pasta shapes such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti depending on your preference.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor. You can also swap out chicken for turkey or beef if desired.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats easily without sacrificing flavor.

How many servings does this recipe yield?

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta is not only quick and easy but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. With customization options like adding vegetables or trying different proteins, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your home. Give it a try, and enjoy a delicious meal that’s both satisfying and healthy!