Description
A lighter, nourishing twist on classic comfort food: tender chicken, garlic, Parmesan, and wholesome pasta tossed in a creamy yet healthy sauce with fresh greens.
Ingredients
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk
Low-sodium chicken broth
Fresh garlic cloves, minced
Fresh spinach or kale
Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
Whole wheat or desired pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti)
Olive oil
Cornstarch or arrowroot powder (optional, for thickening)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Pat chicken dry and season with salt and pepper.
3. Mince garlic and chop fresh herbs. Wash and dry spinach.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
6. Whisk milk/almond milk and chicken broth together, then pour into skillet. Simmer gently.
7. Optional: whisk cornstarch with water to create slurry. Stir into sauce until desired thickness is reached.
8. Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
9. Return chicken to skillet. Stir in spinach/kale to wilt. Add pasta and toss to coat.
10. If using, stir in cherry tomatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.
Notes
Don’t overcook the pasta: keep it al dente.
Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
Adjust creaminess with cornstarch slurry or extra broth.
Season as you go for best results.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for superior taste and melt.
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: healthy pasta, garlic parmesan chicken, weeknight dinner, comfort food, easy recipe