Are you looking for a delicious and healthy meal option that’s quick to prepare? Look no further than our collection of 20 refreshing light chicken pasta recipes! In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring different flavor profiles and ingredient combinations that will tantalize your taste buds. From classic lemon garlic to creamy spinach and mushroom, we’ve got you covered with a variety of dishes that are perfect for any meal or occasion.
Whether you’re in the mood for something light and zesty or hearty and comforting, our collection of recipes is sure to satisfy your cravings. And the best part? Each dish is carefully crafted to be low in calories and rich in flavor, making it easy to enjoy a nutritious meal that’s also delicious.
Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
A bright and flavorful pasta dish that combines juicy chicken, tangy lemon, and pungent garlic. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine or linguine)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add lemon juice, white wine (if using), and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with sauce.
6. Combine cooked pasta and chicken in the skillet. Toss to combine, ensuring pasta is well coated with sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this classic yet flavorful dish that combines the richness of chicken, spinach, and a velvety alfredo sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken and garlic until cooked through.
3. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
4. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and alfredo sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the freshness of basil with the richness of chicken and pasta. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup basil pesto
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and tomato mixture in a large bowl. Stir in basil pesto and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines juicy chicken, sweet tomatoes, and fresh basil. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add diced tomatoes and cook until they release their juices and start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in dried basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss with tomato mixture.
6. Combine cooked pasta with the chicken and tomato sauce. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on the classic pasta salad, this recipe combines grilled chicken, crispy bacon, and tangy Caesar dressing with al dente pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest before slicing.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, crumbled bacon, sliced grilled chicken, and cooked pasta.
4. Drizzle Caesar dressing over the top and toss to combine.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Avocado Chicken Pasta
This recipe combines the richness of avocado with the savory flavors of chicken and pasta, creating a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add diced avocado and cook until slightly softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and avocado mixture in a large bowl. Season with salt, pepper, and basil to taste.
5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Broccoli Chicken Pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of chicken, broccoli, and pasta in a rich and creamy sauce. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add broccoli, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook until broccoli is tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce in a large serving dish. Toss until well coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zucchini Noodle Chicken Pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of chicken, pasta, and zucchini noodles for a healthy and satisfying meal. With minimal preparation time, you can enjoy this dish in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 oz (225g) zucchini noodles
– 1 cup (250ml) cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill or bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
3. Cook zucchini noodles according to package instructions or sauté with olive oil and garlic until tender.
4. In a separate pan, combine cherry tomatoes and minced garlic. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until the tomatoes release their juices.
5. Combine cooked chicken, zucchini noodles, and tomato mixture in a bowl. Top with Parmesan cheese and chopped basil (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
Mushroom and Chicken Pasta
A classic combination of flavors and textures, this mushroom and chicken pasta dish is a satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. This recipe yields 4 servings.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken and mushrooms in olive oil over medium-high heat until cooked through.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken-mushroom mixture, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cilantro Lime Chicken Pasta
This recipe combines the bright flavors of cilantro and lime with the comfort of pasta and chicken, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lime zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in cilantro, lime juice, and lime zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, chicken, and pasta for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in white wine (if using) and simmer for 1 minute.
6. Toss cooked pasta with chicken mixture and serve hot. Top with Parmesan cheese (if desired).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Yogurt Chicken Pasta
This recipe combines the richness of Greek yogurt with the simplicity of chicken and pasta, creating a creamy and satisfying dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the chicken-yogurt mixture. Toss to coat evenly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bell Pepper Chicken Pasta
This recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory taste of chicken and pasta, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that can be ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, bell peppers, and garlic over medium-high heat until chicken is cooked through.
3. Add chicken broth and heavy cream to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the chicken and pepper mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Pasta Primavera
This vibrant and flavorful pasta dish combines juicy chicken, colorful spring vegetables, and a hint of garlic for a quick and satisfying meal. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you can enjoy this delightful primavera in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (e.g. bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, snap peas)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add mixed vegetables and garlic. Cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and vegetable mixture in a large bowl. Season with salt, pepper, and basil.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of rich garlic, savory parmesan cheese, and tender chicken with a bed of al dente pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken breasts with olive oil and minced garlic over medium-high heat until cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and stir in parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked pasta and chicken breasts to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Asparagus Pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of grilled chicken, tender asparagus, and savory pasta for a quick and delicious meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add asparagus to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
5. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the skillet with asparagus.
6. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and asparagus in a large bowl. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Artichoke Chicken Pasta
This creamy pasta dish combines the tender taste of chicken, artichokes, and sun-dried tomatoes, all wrapped up with a rich and tangy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 8 ounces pasta of your choice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
5. Return chicken to skillet and stir in cooked pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Chicken Pasta with Arugula
This quick and flavorful recipe combines sautéed chicken, arugula, and creamy pasta for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups arugula leaves
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic, mushrooms, and thyme; sauté until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream; bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet; toss to combine with creamy sauce.
6. Combine cooked pasta with arugula leaves; add chicken mixture on top.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cherry Tomato Chicken Pasta
A simple yet flavorful pasta dish that combines juicy chicken, sweet cherry tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and cherry tomatoes. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tomatoes start to release their juices.
4. Add cooked pasta, chicken, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese and grated Parmesan (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herbed Chicken Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this herby recipe combines the flavors of cooked chicken, pasta, and fresh herbs for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bow-tie pasta
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tsp. lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until heated through. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, parsley, basil, cherry tomatoes, and lemon zest.
5. Toss gently to combine. If using feta cheese, crumble on top and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to refresh your meal routine with these 20 light and healthy chicken pasta recipes! From classic combinations like Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta and Spinach and Chicken Alfredo Pasta, to more unique flavors like Avocado Chicken Pasta and Grilled Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad, there’s something for everyone. Discover how easy it is to make a delicious and nutritious dinner with the simplicity of pasta and the protein-packed power of chicken. Whether you’re in the mood for creamy sauces or bold herbs, these recipes will inspire your next meal.
