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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – High-Protein Comfort with Penne & Parsley

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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.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

Instructions

  • 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.

Notes

  • Use protein pasta or whole wheat for more fiber.

  • Add spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.

  • Reheats well with a splash of milk.