Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Healthy Dinner

This easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a creamy, comforting dinner that feels indulgent while still being light enough for a weeknight meal. With tender pieces of seasoned chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a silky garlic parmesan sauce, it’s a balanced blend of protein, carbs, and flavor that comes together in under 30 minutes.

The magic of this dish is in its simplicity. The garlic is gently sautéed to release its mellow aroma, then combined with just enough parmesan and milk to create a velvety sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. Chicken adds satisfying heartiness, while spinach and herbs keep things fresh and bright.

It’s a wholesome dish that doesn’t rely on heavy cream or processed sauces—just real, clean ingredients that work together in harmony. Perfect for busy weeknights, date nights, or when you’re craving comfort food with a lighter touch.

Ingredients Overview

This dish uses pantry staples and fresh ingredients that come together for a flavorful and satisfying meal without excess heaviness.

Chicken Breast or Thighs – Lean and protein-rich, boneless chicken breast is ideal for a lighter version. Thighs add more flavor and moisture if preferred. Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.

Garlic – Fresh garlic is essential here. It’s sautéed just until golden to infuse the oil and sauce with its nutty, aromatic character.

Pasta – Short pasta like penne, rotini, or fusilli works well to capture the sauce. Whole wheat or chickpea pasta can be used for extra fiber and nutrients.

Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated parmesan melts into the sauce for a rich, savory flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.

Milk or Half-and-Half – For a creamy texture without heavy cream, whole milk or a mix of milk and half-and-half works beautifully. Plant-based milks like unsweetened almond or oat milk can be used as well.

Spinach (Optional) – A few handfuls of baby spinach stirred in at the end add color, texture, and extra nutrients.

Olive Oil or Butter – Used to cook the garlic and chicken. Olive oil keeps it lighter; butter adds richness.

Salt and Pepper – Essential to season each layer for balanced flavor.

Italian Seasoning or Fresh Herbs – A pinch of dried Italian herbs or fresh parsley brightens the dish and adds a herbal lift.

Red Pepper Flakes (Optional) – Just a touch for subtle heat and complexity.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of your favorite pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté the Chicken
   While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of diced chicken breast or thighs, season with salt, pepper, and ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken from pan and set aside.
3. Cook the Garlic
   Lower the heat to medium. In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter and 4 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant and lightly golden—avoid browning.
4. Make the Sauce
   Stir in 1½ cups milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in ¾ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if using. Simmer 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
5. Combine Pasta and Chicken
   Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce as needed.
6. Add Spinach (Optional)
   Stir in 2 cups of baby spinach and cook just until wilted, about 1 minute. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
7. Serve and Garnish
   Plate the pasta and sprinkle with additional parmesan and fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Make It Lighter – Use skinless chicken breast, whole wheat pasta, and unsweetened almond milk for a leaner dish. Add extra veggies like zucchini, broccoli, or peas.

Dairy-Free Version – Swap in a dairy-free parmesan and unsweetened almond or oat milk. Use olive oil instead of butter.

Add More Protein – Stir in white beans or top with a poached egg for extra protein without meat.

Use Leftover Chicken – Shredded rotisserie chicken works well. Skip sautéing and add it directly to the sauce to warm through.

Make It Gluten-Free – Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and check labels on cheese and seasonings to ensure no hidden gluten.

Boost the Flavor – Add a splash of lemon juice or a spoonful of pesto for a fresh twist. You can also add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a reliable choice for:

• Weeknight family dinners
• Casual date nights
• Meal prep lunches (it reheats well)
• A light but satisfying dinner when you want comfort without heaviness

Serve it with:

• A green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
• Roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli
• Garlic bread or crusty sourdough
• A glass of crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc

Nutritional & Health Notes

This recipe offers a balance of lean protein, complex carbs, and moderate fat. Parmesan provides calcium and flavor, while the optional spinach adds fiber and micronutrients. To make it even healthier:

• Choose whole wheat or legume-based pasta
• Use low-fat milk or unsweetened plant-based milk
• Add more veggies for bulk without extra calories

It’s filling without being heavy, and the portion size can be adjusted to suit your dietary goals.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. This pasta stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne, rotini, fusilli, or shells works well because they hold the sauce better. Spaghetti or fettuccine also work but may need more sauce.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Skip the sautéing step and add shredded rotisserie chicken into the sauce before tossing with pasta.

How do I keep the sauce creamy without cream?
Use whole milk and pasta water to create a silky emulsion. Parmesan helps thicken the sauce naturally as it melts.

Is this dish kid-friendly?
Very! It’s creamy, cheesy, and not spicy unless you add red pepper flakes. Most kids enjoy the mild garlic-parmesan flavor.

Can I freeze garlic parmesan chicken pasta?
It’s best fresh, but you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container. Thaw overnight and reheat gently with extra milk or broth to revive the sauce.

What vegetables can I add?
Try peas, broccoli, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. Sauté or steam them before adding for best results.

Print