Introduction
Dinner time is often when we crave something comforting, delicious, and easy to prepare, but many want to keep things light and healthy. For me, finding that perfect balance is key. I stumbled upon this garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe during one of my busy weeknights. It’s a dish that satisfies all the cravings for something savory while remaining wholesome and light. As an advocate for balanced eating, I, Lina Vexley, love making meals like this that are not only nourishing but also simple to whip up, making it a perfect go-to for any night.
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 pieces chicken breasts boneless, skinless
- 200 g spaghetti whole wheat or gluten-free optional
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese grated
- 1 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
- 1/2 cup broccoli steamed
- 1 tsp dried basil
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried basil. Cook chicken for 6-8 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from heat, let rest, and slice thinly.
- Meanwhile, cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add cooked spaghetti and toss to coat in the garlic oil.
- Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss until the cheese has melted and the pasta is coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Plate the pasta, top with sliced chicken breast, and serve with steamed broccoli on the side. Garnish with fresh basil for extra flavor.
Notes
Nutrition
How to Make the Recipe
This easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not only healthy but also incredibly easy to make. Let’s break it down into simple steps for a stress-free, satisfying dinner.
- Prepare the Chicken: Begin by seasoning the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried basil. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, set the chicken aside and let it rest. After a few minutes, slice it thinly to serve over your pasta.
- Cook the Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions. Once tender, drain the pasta and set it aside. You can use whole wheat pasta or even gluten-free pasta for a healthier, lighter alternative.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1-2 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the garlic becomes fragrant. This will help infuse the oil with that delicious garlicky flavor.
- Combine the Pasta and Garlic: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss it in the garlic-infused oil. Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss it all together until the cheese has melted, coating the pasta with that creamy, savory sauce. If needed, add a little salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Dish: Plate the pasta and top it with the sliced grilled chicken. Serve with a side of steamed broccoli for some added veggies. Garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves for an extra burst of flavor.
Conclusion
This easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe is a perfect way to enjoy a light, healthy, and filling meal. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious dinner that’s full of flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re cooking for one or serving a family, this dish is sure to become a favorite. So, next time you’re looking for a quick and healthy dinner option, this recipe is the way to go!