Some nights call for comfort food, but with a healthy twist. That’s where this easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe for a healthy dinner comes in. Tender chicken, golden garlic, and al dente pasta tossed in a light parmesan sauce it’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet nourishing.

Whether you’re whipping up 1 person meals on a busy night, diving into protein pasta meal prep for the week, or simply craving a healthy pasta dinner that satisfies without the guilt, this dish has you covered. It’s quick, family-friendly, and one of those clean simple eats recipes you’ll return to again and again.

Ingredients

8 oz whole wheat or protein-packed pasta
2 chicken breasts, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup broccoli florets or spinach
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook pasta – In salted boiling water, cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
Cook chicken – Heat olive oil in a skillet. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden and fully cooked, about 6–7 minutes.
Add garlic – Stir in minced garlic and chili flakes, cooking until fragrant (1 minute).
Toss pasta & sauce – Add drained pasta and broccoli (or spinach) to skillet. Stir in parmesan and splash of pasta water until creamy.
Finish & serve – Top with fresh parsley, extra parmesan, and enjoy warm!

Meal Info For Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2
Calories: ~460 per serving

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Quick & cozy perfect for quick and easy healthy dinner recipes
✅ Packed with protein ideal for healthy meals for weight losing
✅ Budget-friendly with pantry staples
✅ Works beautifully for easy postpartum meals or simple Skinnytaste recipes style
✅ Great for meal prep pasta stays creamy even reheated

Simple Table

Component	Healthy Tip
Chicken	Lean protein for muscle support, great for protein pasta meal prep
Pasta	Choose whole wheat or chickpea pasta for fiber & balance
Garlic	Adds bold flavor without heavy sauces
Parmesan	A little goes a long way rich taste for fewer calories
Veggies	Broccoli or spinach for vitamins, fiber, and freshness

Serving Suggestions

Add zucchini noodles for extra fiber
Serve with a side salad for a more clean simple eats recipe
Portion into meal prep containers for healthy meals for weight losing
Swap in gluten-free pasta for a lighter option

Pro Tips

Reserve pasta water it helps create that silky parmesan sauce.
Don’t overcook the chicken; searing keeps it juicy.
Add veggies at the last minute so they stay crisp and bright.

Storage & Reheating

Fridge: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Best frozen without the cheese add fresh when reheating.
Reheat: Microwave with a splash of broth or water, or warm gently on the stove.

🌟 Conclusion

There you have it an easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe for a healthy dinner that’s creamy, cozy, and nourishing all at once. Whether you’re cooking a quick 1 person meal, planning out your protein pasta meal prep, or just needing a comforting bowl of pasta after a long day, this dish fits right in. It’s proof that healthy food can be both simple and satisfying.

So grab your fork, sprinkle on a little extra parmesan, and enjoy a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. 💛

👉 Follow me on Pinterest for more cozy, quick, and healthy recipes you’ll love sharing at your own table!