A creamy, garlic-packed pasta with tender chicken and a Parmesan cheese sauce that’s comforting yet light enough for a healthy weeknight dinner.
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 oz whole wheat pasta (or pasta of choice)
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup milk or half-and-half
3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
Optional: spinach, cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli
Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear in olive oil over medium-high heat for 4–5 minutes per side until cooked through. Rest, then slice.
In the same pan, lower heat to medium. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
Add milk and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan gradually, whisking until smooth.
Add pasta and chicken to the sauce. Toss to coat, adding pasta water as needed.
Stir in optional vegetables until wilted or heated.
Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot.
Use tahini or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version. Chickpea pasta adds extra protein and fiber.
Find it online: https://dryrecipes.com/easy-garlic-chicken-pasta-for-meal-prep/