Why make this recipe
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful meal that’s easy to prepare and pleases everyone at the table. It combines tender chicken, wholesome pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce made from Greek yogurt and Parmesan. This dish is not just tasty; it’s also a healthier choice compared to traditional creamy pasta dishes. Plus, it takes less than 30 minutes to make, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights!
How to make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta
- 1 lb lean chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Lower the heat, then add Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine everything well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and heat through.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A delightful meal that combines tender chicken, wholesome whole wheat pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce made from Greek yogurt and Parmesan.
Ingredients
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta
- 1 lb lean chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Lower the heat, then add Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine everything well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and heat through.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Make sure to cook the chicken completely before adding garlic to avoid burning. You can adjust the garlic quantity to your taste. For a vegetarian version, sauté vegetables instead of chicken.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
How to serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Serve this delicious pasta hot, right from the skillet. It’s perfect on its own or with a side salad. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a nice touch and a dash of color. This dish pairs well with garlic bread or crusty rolls for a complete meal.
How to store Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
If you have leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat it, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stove. You might want to add a splash of milk or water to loosen up the sauce.
Tips to make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Make sure to cook the chicken completely before adding the garlic to avoid burning.
- You can use other types of pasta if you prefer, but whole wheat adds a nice texture and nutty flavor.
- Adjust the amount of garlic according to your taste. If you love garlic, feel free to add more!
- For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding some Italian herbs, like basil or oregano, to the sauce.
Variation
For a vegetarian version, you can swap the chicken for sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can also use plant-based yogurt and cheese to keep it creamy without the dairy.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular pasta instead of whole wheat?
Yes, you can use regular pasta if you prefer. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it might differ.
2. Can I freeze this pasta dish?
Yes, you can freeze the pasta, but the creamy sauce may change texture upon thawing. It’s best to reheat and serve fresh when possible.
3. What can I do with leftovers?
You can enjoy leftovers as is or turn them into a pasta bake. Just place them in a baking dish, sprinkle some extra cheese on top, and bake until bubbly!
