Name: Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Tenderloins, cut into bite size pieces; 1 Tbsp Garlic Pepper; 2 Tbsp (15g) Reduced Fat Grated Parmesan Cheese; 1/4-1/2 tsp Crushed Red Pepper, based on spice preference; 1 bag (8.5 oz) Barilla Ready Pasta Rotini, or your choice of pasta; 15 oz can Tomato Sauce; 2 Tbsp Garlic Pepper; 1 Tbsp Granular Sugar Substitute like stevia or Swerve; 1/2 tsp Crushed Red Pepper, omit if you’re sensitive to spice

Jump to Recipe·5.2 from 21 reviews

If you’re hunting for a comforting, flavorful meal that fits into a healthy lifestyle but refuses to skimp on gusto, let me introduce you to Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta. This dish is a weeknight savior and a weekend treat all in one, with tender seasoned chicken, zesty tomato sauce, toothsome pasta, and that unbeatable finishing touch of Parmesan—all cooked up in just over half an hour. You’ll love how seamlessly all the pieces come together, creating a fresh yet indulgent experience that you’ll crave again and again.

Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s the magic of this Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta: every ingredient plays a starring role in bringing bold flavor and vibrant color to your plate, yet the list is short and sweet. Simple isn’t just easier; it’s tastier too, letting every component shine.

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Tenderloins (1 lb): Go for tenderloins for quick cooking and super succulent bites every time.
Garlic Pepper (3 Tbsp, divided): This punchy blend does double duty as marinade and sauce booster for unbeatable savoriness.
Reduced Fat Grated Parmesan Cheese (2 Tbsp/15g): The Parm adds a nutty, salty finish and a pop of creaminess to the chicken.
Crushed Red Pepper (1/4-1/2 tsp, plus 1/2 tsp for sauce): Use as much or as little heat as you prefer—it’s all about your comfort zone.
Barilla Ready Pasta Rotini (1 bag/8.5 oz): This shortcut pasta is a dream for fast meals, but any ready-cooked pasta works great!
Tomato Sauce (15 oz can): Bright and tangy, it melds beautifully with the savory chicken and punchy cheese.
Granular Sugar Substitute (1 Tbsp): Stevia, Swerve, or your favorite helps balance the acidity of the tomato without extra sugar.
Optional Shredded Mozzarella: For that extra cheesy melt on top, you can never go wrong!

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Mix Up the Flavorful Marinade

Combine garlic pepper, Parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper in a resealable bag or container. This is your flavor-packed marinade base—and don’t be shy about giving it a good shake or stir. It just takes seconds, but this mix gives every bite of chicken that Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta signature pop.

Step 2: Coat and Marinate the Chicken

Cut your chicken breast tenderloins into bite-sized pieces. Add the chicken into your prepared marinade container and shake (or stir) until every morsel is nicely coated. For best flavor, plan to let this marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (an hour or even overnight brings out even more savory goodness).

Step 3: Sear That Chicken to Perfection

Heat a large skillet over medium-high and hit it with nonstick spray. Once it’s hot (you’ll hear a sizzle if you flick a drop of water in), add your marinated chicken in a single layer. Leave it untouched for about 4 minutes—this is how you get that lovely golden color. Flip, then cook another 2-3 minutes, making sure no pink remains.

Step 4: Warm Your Pasta and Mix the Sauce

While the chicken is working its magic, microwave your Ready Pasta according to the package (so easy!). In a bowl, combine the tomato sauce, remaining garlic pepper, sweetener, and another sprinkle of crushed red pepper. It’s a quick, no-cook sauce with layers of flavor.

Step 5: Unite Chicken, Pasta & Sauce

Add the warmed pasta and your prepared tomato sauce into the skillet with the chicken. Stir it all together, then let it simmer a few minutes so the sauce thickens slightly and everything is deliciously intertwined, as any great Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta should be.

Step 6: Cheese It Up & Serve

Off the heat, finish with a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella (if desired) and maybe even a dusting of extra Parmesan. This is that irresistible moment when the aroma tells you it’s time to dig in!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

Bring even more personality to your Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta with a finishing flourish. A sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan, fresh torn basil, or chopped parsley add color, aroma, and a restaurant-style vibe. If you love a bit of zing, a fresh crack of black pepper or a pinch more red pepper flakes goes a long way.

Side Dishes

This pasta is a meal all on its own, but if you want to turn it into a real Italian-style feast, pair it with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemony vinaigrette or some simply roasted vegetables. For serious comfort, serve with whole grain garlic toast—just don’t forget to swipe up any leftover sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

Show off your Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta! Serve up individual bowls topped with a Parmesan crisp, or plate it family-style on a big platter for everyone to share. Tuck the pasta into a hollowed-out roasted bell pepper for a low-carb twist, or spoon leftovers into a lunchbox for envy-inducing meal prep.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow your Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh and tasty in the fridge for up to 3 days, perfect for grabbing a quick lunch or speedy dinner.

Freezing

If you’d like to stock up, this pasta freezes surprisingly well! Let it cool, portion into airtight containers or freezer bags, and freeze for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat your leftovers in a skillet over medium with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce, stirring gently until hot. The microwave also works; just cover to keep it moist. Finish with a fresh sprinkle of cheese to bring it all together.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any shape you love with Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta works—penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for extra fiber. The sauce clings nicely to twists and ridges.

Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

You can swap the Parmesan for a dairy-free version or nutritional yeast, and skip the mozzarella. The chicken will still soak up the garlic pepper and tomato flavors beautifully.

How spicy does it get?

The crushed red pepper adds a gentle kick, but you’re totally in control—simply use less or omit for a milder Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta, or amp it up if you like things fiery.

Can I prep the chicken ahead of time?

Yes! Marinated chicken can sit in the fridge overnight, making it a real time-saver for busy weeks. You can even portion and freeze uncooked marinated chicken so it’s ready to go anytime.

What’s the best way to make this kid-friendly?

Dial down the crushed red pepper, let kids sprinkle on their own cheese, and maybe offer mini pasta shapes—everyone finds something to love with Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to gather your ingredients and whip up this Garlic Parmesan Healthy Chicken Pasta! It’s bright, cozy, and full of feel-good flavors that bring everyone to the table. Give it a try—your weeknight dinners may never be the same.