Looking for a delicious, restaurant-quality pasta dish you can make at home? This grilled chicken pasta is packed with juicy, smoky chicken, fresh vegetables, and a light, flavorful sauce. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal!
🔥 Prep Time: 15 minutes | 🍽️ Cook Time: 20 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 35 minutes | 🍴 Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup baby spinach
- ½ cup heavy cream or milk
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Let’s Cook!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Grill the chicken: Brush chicken breasts with 1 tbsp olive oil and season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Grill over medium heat for 5-6 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 75°C). Let rest, then slice into strips.
Cook the pasta: Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Make the sauce: In a large pan, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds, then add cherry tomatoes and cook until softened.
Combine everything: Add spinach, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until creamy. Toss in the cooked pasta and grilled chicken until well coated.
Serve & enjoy: Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot!
🍝 “Juicy grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy Parmesan sauce—this pasta dish is pure comfort food with a fresh twist!”
Tips & Variations:
Make it lighter: Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or half-and-half.
Add more veggies: Try zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
Go spicy: Sprinkle with extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Low-carb option: Use zucchini noodles instead of pasta.
📸 Tried this recipe? Tag @Smoothly_Cooking and share your delicious creation! 🍽️✨