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Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Healthy Dinner

Transform your dinner routine with this Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe! This delightful dish combines tender chicken, whole wheat penne, fresh spinach, and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce for a wholesome meal in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, it's tasty enough to please the whole family while also sneaking in some nutritious ingredients. Give it a try tonight and satisfy your comfort food cravings! #GarlicParmesanPasta #EasyRecipes #FamilyMeals #ComfortFood #HealthyEating

Ingredients
  

8 ounces whole wheat penne pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

2 cups fresh spinach

1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the whole wheat penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.

    Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the diced chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

      Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the dried oregano and red pepper flakes (if using) and mix well.

        Add Tomatoes and Broth: Incorporate the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.

          Add Spinach and Cheese: Stir in the fresh spinach and allow it to wilt, which takes about 2 minutes. Then, lower the heat and mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.

            Combine Pasta and Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, and then add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together, making sure the pasta is well-coated. If the mixture seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water.

              Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4