Creamy High-Protein Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (Print Version)
Creamy, high-protein garlic parmesan chicken pasta delivers a satisfying, flavorful meal. Quick to prepare, it's ideal for busy weeknights.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Italian
# Ingredients:
→ The Savory Protein Core
01 -
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 -
1 tbsp olive oil
03 -
1/2 tsp salt
04 -
1/4 tsp black pepper
→ Velvety Garlic Parmesan Sauce
05 -
2 tbsp unsalted butter
06 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
07 -
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
08 -
1 cup 2% milk
09 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
10 -
1/4 cup light cream cheese
11 -
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
12 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Hearty Pasta & Fresh Accents
13 -
12 oz penne pasta
14 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Cut 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. Season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the 12 oz penne pasta, preparing for your Creamy, High-Protein Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta.
02 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside, reserving any drippings.
03 -
Add 12 oz penne pasta to the boiling water. Cook according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water. This starchy water will help create the perfect consistency for your Creamy, High-Protein Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta sauce.
04 -
In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 4 cloves minced garlic and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional). Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
05 -
Whisk in 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth and 1 cup 2% milk. Bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 1/4 cup light cream cheese until smooth and fully melted. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
06 -
Add the cooked chicken and drained penne pasta to the sauce. Stir well to coat everything. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. Garnish your Creamy, High-Protein Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately.
# Notes:
01 -
For an even richer flavor, substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the breasts. Adjust cooking time slightly until cooked through.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
03 -
Enhance the dish by serving with a simple side salad or steamed green beans. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the finished pasta can also brighten the flavors.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
Whisk
04 -
Measuring cups
05 -
Measuring spoons
06 -
Cutting board
07 -
Chef's knife
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 706 kcal
Total Fat: 21 g
Total Carbohydrate: 66 g
Protein: 55 g