Craving a creamy, comforting meal that’s still healthy? This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is your answer! Ready in just 30 minutes, this one-pan dish combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich garlic Parmesan sauce packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a family-friendly recipe that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Pair it with a side salad or veggies for a complete, wholesome dinner!
Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Quick & Simple: Ready in 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
- Healthy Twist: Uses lean chicken and a lighter cream sauce.
- Bold Flavors: Garlic and Parmesan create a rich, savory taste.
- Versatile: Swap pasta types or add veggies to suit your preferences.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for kids and adults alike.
If you enjoy recipes like this Parmesan Chicken Pasta, try our Ground Beef Stir Fry or Crock Pot White Chicken Lasagna Soup for more weeknight winners.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces penne pasta (or any short pasta, like rotini)
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ¾ cup half-and-half (or light cream)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add to the skillet and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and half-and-half until smooth. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add Parmesan: Stir in Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using) until the sauce is creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet, add the cooked pasta, and toss to coat in the garlic Parmesan sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes to heat through.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve this Parmesan Chicken Pasta hot with a side salad or steamed broccoli.
Pro Tips for the Best Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Grated Parmesan cheese melts better and enhances flavor.
- Customize Veggies: Add spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Pasta Options: Swap penne for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
- Creamy Texture: Use half-and-half for a lighter sauce, or heavy cream for richer flavor.
- Prep Ahead: Cube chicken and mince garlic in advance to save time.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Veggie-Packed: Stir in sautéed zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or peas.
- Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
- Cheesy Boost: Add mozzarella or Asiago for extra cheesiness.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet with a splash of broth or in the microwave.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Yes! Use rotisserie chicken or leftovers; just add it when combining with the sauce.
Is this Parmesan Chicken Pasta gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and flour to make it gluten-free.
Can I make the sauce ahead?
Yes, prepare the sauce and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before tossing with pasta and chicken.
How do I thicken the sauce?
If the sauce is too thin, simmer longer or add an extra teaspoon of flour to the roux.
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Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: A Healthy 30-Minute Dinner
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This easy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is a creamy, healthy dinner ready in 30 minutes! Tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich garlic Parmesan sauce make it a family-friendly weeknight favorite. Serve with a side salad or veggies for a wholesome meal that’s perfect for busy evenings.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
12 ounces penne pasta (or any short pasta, like rotini)
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
¾ cup half-and-half (or light cream)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add to the skillet and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and half-and-half until smooth. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add Parmesan: Stir in Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using) until the sauce is creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet, add the cooked pasta, and toss to coat in the garlic Parmesan sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes to heat through.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve this Parmesan Chicken Pasta hot with a side salad or steamed broccoli.
Notes
Cheese Quality: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
Veggie Add-Ins: Stir in spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and flour for a gluten-free version.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.
Sauce Thickness: Adjust flour or simmer time to achieve desired consistency.
Meal Pairings: Complement with recipes from dishestolearn.com, such as Healthy Greek Yogurt Coffee Cake for dessert or Herby Ranch for a side salad dressing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sauté
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
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