A healthy, high-protein pasta dish featuring tender garlic chicken, creamy Parmesan sauce, and penne tossed with fresh parsley. Balanced, easy, and ready in under 35 minutes.
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
8 oz penne pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Reserved pasta water
Cook penne until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain.
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear in 1 tbsp olive oil until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
In the same pan, add 1 tbsp olive oil and garlic. Sauté 1–2 minutes.
Add milk and bring to simmer. Stir in Parmesan until melted and creamy.
Add cooked pasta and chicken. Toss to combine. Add pasta water to adjust sauce.
Season to taste. Stir in fresh parsley and serve hot.
Use protein pasta or whole wheat for more fiber.
Add spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
Reheats well with a splash of milk.