If you’re on the hunt for a dish that balances wholesome ingredients with bold flavors, look no further than this Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent without the guilt, combining tender chicken pieces marinated in garlic pepper and Parmesan, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and a savory tomato sauce. What I love most is how this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a comforting, vibrant dish that everyone will rave about at the dinner table.

Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things straightforward while ensuring each ingredient shines. Every component plays a vital role, from the tender chicken providing protein, the pasta offering satisfying texture, to the garlic and Parmesan delivering that signature savory punch.

1 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Tenderloins: Bite-sized pieces ensure quick, even cooking and perfect tenderness.
1 Tbsp Garlic Pepper: Adds fragrant warmth and a hint of spice to complement the chicken.
2 Tbsp Reduced Fat Grated Parmesan Cheese: Delivers rich, nutty flavor while keeping the dish lighter.
1/4-1/2 tsp Crushed Red Pepper: Customize the heat level to suit your taste preferences.
1 bag (8.5 oz) Barilla Ready Pasta Rotini: Ready in minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing texture.
15 oz can Tomato Sauce: Creates the hearty, tangy base that ties all the flavors together.
2 Tbsp Garlic Pepper (for sauce): Reinforces that irresistible garlic flavor throughout the dish.
1 Tbsp Granular Sugar Substitute (like stevia or Swerve): Balances acidity with sweetness without adding calories.
1/2 tsp Crushed Red Pepper (optional for sauce): Adds a subtle kick if you enjoy a bit of spice.

How to Make Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by mixing the garlic pepper, Parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper in a resealable bag or container. This blend is pure magic—coating each chicken bite with bold, savory goodness. Toss in the diced chicken tenderloins and shake everything until they’re fully coated. Pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Trust me, the longer it marinates, the deeper those flavors get!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and spray with nonstick cooking spray. When the pan is hot enough that water droplets sizzle, add your marinated chicken in a single layer. Let it cook undisturbed for 4 minutes to get a nice sear, then flip and cook another 2 to 3 minutes. Check that no pink remains, especially in thicker pieces—this step locks in juiciness and creates those slightly golden edges that add texture.

Step 3: Prepare the Pasta and Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, microwave the Barilla Ready Pasta according to the package instructions. In a separate bowl, combine the tomato sauce with 2 tablespoons of garlic pepper, your sweetener, and optional crushed red pepper. This sauce is the perfect mix of tangy, sweet, and spicy that lifts the entire dish.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Mix the cooked pasta and prepared tomato sauce right into the skillet with your chicken. Stir everything together and let it simmer on low heat for a few minutes. This melds the flavors and warms the sauce through, coating every pasta spiral and chicken piece with that delightful garlicky Parmesan goodness.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches

Remove the skillet from heat and if you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle some shredded mozzarella on top. The cheese melts slightly from the residual heat, adding a creamy layer that compliments the garlicky, Parmesan-packed dish wonderfully.

How to Serve Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the pasta for a fresh, herby pop of color and flavor. A little extra grated Parmesan on top never hurts either—those little finishing touches make every bite feel special.

Side Dishes

This chicken pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or some steamed veggies like broccoli or asparagus. The freshness of the sides balances the richness of the dish, rounding out your meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the pasta in individual bowls layered with garnishes for an inviting presentation. For an impressive twist, spoon the pasta into baked zucchini boats or stuffed bell peppers—combining veggie goodness with your Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a crowd-pleasing meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe keeps well for up to three days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the pasta and sauce together to preserve that cozy, melded flavor.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze the recipe in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the texture and taste as much as possible.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the chicken from drying out. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much to keep it creamy and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Barilla Ready Pasta Rotini is convenient and perfect here, you can swap in penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti depending on what you have on hand. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.

Is this Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s fantastic for meal prep. The ingredients hold up well over a few days, making it a great option to prepare in advance and enjoy during busy weekdays.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative. This change will slightly alter the flavor but maintain that savory, cheesy vibe.

How spicy is this dish with the crushed red pepper?

The amount of crushed red pepper can be adjusted to your taste. Use less or none if you prefer a milder dish, or add more to give your pasta a nice, warming kick.

What is the advantage of using a granular sugar substitute in the sauce?

The sugar substitute balances the acidity of the tomato sauce without adding unnecessary calories or sugar spikes. It keeps the flavor rounded and perfect for those watching their sugar intake.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites to whip up when I want a comforting yet wholesome meal on the table fast. Its blend of bold garlic, cheesy Parmesan, tender chicken, and tangy sauce transforms simple ingredients into something truly special. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own—once you do, it might just become a staple in your dinner rotation too!

Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 8 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

A delicious and healthy garlic parmesan chicken pasta made with tender chicken breast, flavorful seasonings, reduced fat Parmesan cheese, and a lightly spiced tomato sauce, perfect for a quick and nutritious weeknight meal.

Instructions

Mix Seasonings: Combine the garlic pepper, parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper in a resealable bag or container. This mixture will be used to marinate the chicken to infuse it with flavor.
Marinate Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite size pieces and add them to the resealable container with the seasoning mix. Shake or stir until the chicken is fully coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably longer, to enhance the flavor.
Heat Skillet: Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat and spray with nonstick cooking spray. The pan is ready when water drops sizzle on contact.
Cook Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the hot skillet and spread evenly. Leave the chicken untouched for 4 minutes to develop a good sear, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Ensure no pieces remain pink inside before lowering the heat to low.
Prepare Pasta and Sauce: While the chicken cooks, microwave the Barilla Ready Pasta according to package instructions. In a bowl, mix the tomato sauce with garlic pepper, sugar substitute, and crushed red pepper to create a flavorful sauce.
Combine and Simmer: Add the cooked pasta and sauce mixture to the skillet with the chicken. Stir everything together and simmer for a few minutes until the sauce is warmed through and the mixture is well combined.
Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and, if desired, top with shredded mozzarella cheese before serving for an extra cheesy touch.

Notes

You can adjust the amount of crushed red pepper to your heat preference or omit it if you are sensitive to spice.
Using reduced fat Parmesan cheese helps keep the dish lower in calories without sacrificing flavor.
Substitute sugar with stevia or Swerve to keep the recipe diabetic friendly and lower in sugar content.
The recipe uses Barilla Ready Pasta to save cooking time; regular pasta can be used but may need longer preparation.
Optional shredded mozzarella cheese can be added for extra creaminess but will increase calories and fat slightly.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing, Simmering
Cuisine: Italian-American