Description
Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken, creamy plant-based Parmesan-style cheese sauce, and a bright splash of apple cider vinegar for a fresh twist. This nourishing and comforting dish is perfect for any night, offering a rich and velvety yet light flavor profile that is easy to prepare and customizable to your preference.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
Pasta
- 8 ounces penne or fusilli pasta
Sauce and Flavorings
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup plant-based Parmesan-style cheese
- 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent (optional, for sauce consistency)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water to help with sauce consistency later on.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts, seasoning with salt and pepper, then sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Build Sauce: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil, then toss in the minced garlic. Cook until fragrant but not browned, about 1 minute. Stir in vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) and apple cider vinegar to deglaze the pan and layer in flavor.
- Create Creamy Parmesan Sauce: Lower the heat and add plant-based Parmesan-style cheese and a splash of reserved pasta water, stirring gently until it melts into a creamy sauce. If needed, incorporate a small amount of natural gelling agent to reach your preferred consistency.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together so the sauce evenly coats every bite. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a bright, fresh contrast. Serve immediately and enjoy the harmony of creamy, savory, and vibrant flavors.
Notes
- Cook pasta al dente to prevent mushy noodles and help sauce cling better.
- Use fresh garlic minced for the best aroma and flavor.
- Control sauce consistency by starting with a small amount of natural gelling agent, adding gradually.
- Sear chicken well for a golden crust that adds texture and rich flavor.
- Reserve pasta water to emulsify the sauce and create a silky finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: garlic parmesan chicken pasta, plant-based cheese, creamy pasta, healthy chicken pasta, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce