Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

There’s something undeniably comforting about a luscious pasta dish, right? One that warms you from the inside out, wraps you in a cozy hug, and keeps you coming back for more. Let’s dive into one of my all-time favorites: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll find a permanent spot in your culinary repertoire!

Why you’ll love this recipe

Picture this: tender pieces of chicken nestled within creamy pasta, adorned with a robust garlic essence and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Sound dreamy? That’s precisely what this dish delivers! It’s not just a pasta meal; it’s a culinary experience that melds taste and texture into one delightful harmony. The whole wheat pasta adds a heartiness while maximizing the goodness in each bite. And the star ingredient, Greek yogurt, creates a richness that makes you question how something so creamy can be so wholesome.

Not only is this dish downright delicious, but it also gets you a solid mound of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Perfect for weeknights when you want something that feels indulgent without the guilt! It comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy evenings or unexpected guests. Plus, the leftovers? They’re practically begging to be your lunch the next day—who doesn’t love a great homemade meal waiting in the fridge?

Gather these ingredients

Let’s tune into the essentials that bring this saucy number to life:

• Whole Wheat Pasta (8 oz): I always reach for whole wheat because it offers that satisfying chew, plus a good dose of nutrients to keep you full. You can swap it out for regular pasta if you prefer, but if you can swing it, the whole grain version keeps it healthier and heartier.

• Lean Chicken Breast (1 lb): The protein powerhouse! Opt for skinless, boneless chicken for easy cooking. You could easily substitute with turkey, or even garlicky shrimp if you’re feeling adventurous.

• Greek Yogurt (1 cup): The secret to creaminess! It adds depth and pairs wonderfully with the Parmesan for a luxurious sauce without the heaviness of cream. Full-fat or low-fat works, but just avoid the non-fat; we need some richness here!

• Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup): It’s all about that cheesy goodness—grated, of course! If you’re like me and adore a bit of sharpness, a sprinkle of Pecorino Romano might be your new best friend.

• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Because what’s pasta without garlic? It’s like the musical backdrop to this ensemble of flavors, and fresh is always best.

• Olive Oil (2 tbsp): A drizzle of this liquid gold will help you sauté the chicken beautifully. You could try avocado oil for a change; it has a similar smoke point.

• Salt and Pepper (to taste): Simple but essential! These aren’t just afterthoughts; they’ll boost all the flavors to infinity.

• Fresh Parsley (for garnish): Because who doesn’t love a pop of color? It adds freshness and a lovely touch that transforms the dish from simple to stunning.

How this recipe comes together

Now let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking!

1. Boil the pasta: Fill a large pot with salted water and follow the package instructions to cook the whole wheat pasta. Drain it once it’s al dente, then set it aside. Tip: A splash of olive oil can help prevent sticking!

2. Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced chicken and let it sizzle until it’s browned and cooked through—about 6-8 minutes should do it. Stir occasionally for even cooking.

3. Add the garlic: Toss in your minced garlic and sauté for just about a minute or until it’s fragrant. Don’t walk away! Garlic can burn quickly and turn bitter if you’re not attentive.

4. Create the sauce: Lower the heat, and now it’s time for the magic! Stir in Greek yogurt and grated Parmesan. Mix well until you have a smooth, creamy sauce that’s kissing your chicken. This is where the comfort meets indulgence, folks!

5. Combine with pasta: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the creamy chicken mixture. Use tongs to coat everything nicely. It’s a cozy blanket of flavor, don’t you think?

6. Season it up: Sprinkle salt and pepper according to your taste. Remember, a dash too little can leave it flat, but too much will overwhelm. Taste as you go!

7. Garnish and serve: Serve it hot, topped with fresh parsley for that burst of color and flavor. Oh, and maybe grab a glass of wine while you’re at it—you’ve earned it!

Best way to enjoy it

So how do we elevate this dish from great to unforgettable? Let’s talk serving suggestions! Pair this creamy delight with a vibrant side salad full of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette to balance out that creaminess. For those cozy nights, a slice of garlic bread makes for an irresistible duo. You could also whip up some steamed broccoli or sautéed asparagus for a pop of green and extra nutrients.

And, remember to present it with flair! A beautiful bowl, a sprinkle of extra parmesan on top, and perhaps a twist of cracked pepper—it’s all in the details!

Storage and reheating tips

So you’ve made a luscious mountain of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta—what to do with leftovers? First off, let it cool down to room temp before transferring it to an airtight container. It should stay happy in your fridge for about 3-4 days.

Reheating? Either toss it back in a skillet with a splash of broth or water over medium heat to revitalize the creaminess, or pop it in the microwave for quick convenience. Just be sure to cover it to prevent drying out.

Pro tip: This dish doesn’t freeze particularly well due to the yogurt. But if you must, freezing it in smaller portions can help—you might find you enjoy it more fresh!

Helpful cooking tips

Let me share a few pro tips to take this dish to the next level.

• Don’t rush the chicken: Let it get nice and caramelized—this depth of flavor is what makes the dish sing. If you’ve got time to brine your chicken for a few hours beforehand, go for it; it’ll be more succulent!

• Customize your garlic: If you adore garlic like I do, feel free to add more. Roasted garlic is a delicious alternative, lending a sweeter depth to the sauce.

• Experiment with herbs: If fresh parsley isn’t your jam, try fresh basil or oregano for a different twist. Just remember, they need a lighter hand since they can be quite fragrant!

Creative Twists

Now, let’s explore some creative variations!

• Vegetarian Version: Swap out the chicken for roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Toss them in just before adding the garlic to roast them lightly and create a wonderful depth of flavor.

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes in with your garlic or use a dash of hot sauce to bring some heat.

• Cheese Overload: How about a mix of mozzarella and cheddar? If you’re feeling indulgent, mix in a handful of fresh mozzarella near the end for that ooey-gooey indulgence.

Ingredients list

• 8 oz whole wheat pasta
• 1 lb lean chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions to follow

1. Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast and cook until browned and cooked through.
3. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Reduce heat and stir in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine the cooked pasta with the creamy chicken mixture, tossing to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Your questions answered

• How long does it take to prepare? This delicious dish comes together in about 30 minutes—perfect for your busy weeknight dinners.

• Can I make it ahead? Absolutely! This dish is fantastic for meal prep and stays well in the fridge for a few days.

• Is it spicy? It’s not inherently spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes to kick it up a notch!

• Can I use other proteins? Definitely! Turkey, shrimp, or even tofu would work beautifully here.

• What pairs well with it? A crisp salad or sautéed veggies make perfect companions for a balanced meal.

You see how easy and delightful it is to make this creamy indulgence? It really does encompass everything we love about cooking—the comfort, the flavors, the memories around the table. I dare you to give it a spin, sprinkle in your own creative flair, and let me know how it goes! You’ll not just be making dinner; you’ll be crafting delicious moments to savor and share with loved ones. So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

Print Recipe

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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Cooking Method: Sauteing, Simmering Courses: Comfort Food, Dinner, Main Course Recipe Keys: C Comfort Food E Easy High Protein Non Vegetarian W Weeknight

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 20 mins Total Time 30 mins

Servings: 4 Estimated Cost: $ 10 Calories: 600

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish featuring tender chicken, whole wheat pasta, and a creamy sauce made from Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese. Ideal for a comforting meal in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

Main Ingredients

• 8 oz whole wheat pasta
• 1 lb lean chicken breast, diced (skinless and boneless)
• 1 cup Greek yogurt (either full-fat or low-fat)
• ¹⁄₂ cup grated Parmesan cheese (can substitute with Pecorino Romano)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic is best)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (can substitute with avocado oil)
• to taste salt
• to taste pepper
• for garnish fresh parsley (adds color and freshness)

Instructions

Cooking Directions

1. Cook the pasta

   Fill a large pot with salted water and cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
   Adding a splash of olive oil can help prevent sticking.
   Mark as complete

2. Cook the chicken

   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
   Stir occasionally for even cooking.
   Mark as complete

3. Add garlic

   Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
   Be cautious as garlic can burn quickly.
   Mark as complete

4. Create the sauce

   Reduce heat and stir in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
   Mark as complete

5. Combine with pasta

   Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy chicken mixture.
   Mark as complete

6. Season and serve

   Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
   Mark as complete

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 600kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 20g31%

Saturated Fat 6g30%

Trans Fat 0g

Cholesterol 70mg24%

Sodium 500mg21%

Potassium 800mg23%

Total Carbohydrate 60g20%

Dietary Fiber 8g32%

Sugars 4g

Protein 40g80%

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Vitamin A 500 IU

Vitamin C 2 mg

Calcium 300 mg

Iron 3 mg

Vitamin D 0 IU

Vitamin E 2 IU

Vitamin K 10 mcg

Thiamin 0.2 mg

Riboflavin 0.4 mg

Niacin 8 mg

Vitamin B6 0.5 mg

Folate 60 mcg

Vitamin B12 1 mcg

Biotin 0 mcg

Pantothenic Acid 1 mg

Phosphorus 400 mg

Iodine 0 mcg

Magnesium 50 mg

Zinc 2 mg

Selenium 30 mcg

Copper 0.2 mg

Manganese 1 mg

Chromium 0 mcg

Molybdenum 0 mcg

Chloride 0 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: pasta, chicken, creamy, garlic, parmesan, quick meal