This is a creamy, simple pasta dish with chicken and garlic.
INTRODUCTION
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is an easy and tasty meal. It uses simple ingredients and cooks fast. You get tender chicken, warm garlic, and a rich sauce with Greek yogurt and Parmesan. This dish works for weeknights or a casual meal with family.
If you want another clear guide for this flavor, see this garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe for an extra idea.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love this recipe because it is quick, healthy, and full of flavor. The whole wheat pasta gives a nutty taste and extra fiber. Greek yogurt makes the sauce creamy without heavy cream. Parmesan adds a cheesy, salty bite that ties the dish together.
If you need a hands-off version for a busy day, check this crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta for slow cooker tips and ease.
HOW TO MAKE Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This recipe is simple. You cook pasta, brown chicken, add garlic, and finish with Greek yogurt and Parmesan. Stir until smooth and warm. Toss pasta into the sauce and serve.
For a quick one-pan idea to cut down rinsing, look at this one-pot creamy garlic pasta for a similar method that saves time.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Cheese grater (if you grate fresh Parmesan)
Ingredients You’ll Need :
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta
- 1 lb lean chicken breast, cubed
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :
- Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the cubed chicken breast and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Reduce the heat to low, then add the Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese, stirring to combine until creamy.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, mixing well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
HOW TO SERVE Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Serve this pasta hot from the stove. Place a scoop of pasta on a warm plate. Add a little extra Parmesan on top if you like. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and a light fresh taste. Serve with a lemon wedge on the side for a small bright note.
Pair the pasta with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables. For a light meal, try a green salad with a mild vinaigrette. You can also serve crusty whole grain bread to soak up any sauce.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Cool the food to room temperature before sealing the container. To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat and add a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce. Stir often until heated through.
Freezing is possible but not ideal for long term because dairy can separate. If you must freeze, place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove and whisk the sauce to bring it back together. If you want a different creamy flavor, try this creamy cajun chicken pasta for a spicier option to store and reheat with confidence.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Simple green salad: mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette.
- Steamed or roasted broccoli for color and fiber.
- Sliced tomatoes with a pinch of salt and olive oil.
- Whole grain bread or garlic toast for dipping.
Keep servings balanced by offering vegetables on the side. A small squeeze of lemon over the pasta can lift the whole dish and make it taste fresher.
VARIATIONS
- Vegetarian: Swap chicken for mushrooms or roasted cauliflower. Cook until tender and then add to the sauce.
- Low-fat: Use low-fat Greek yogurt and reduce Parmesan slightly. Add a splash of milk to keep the sauce smooth.
- Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking the sauce.
- Herb boost: Stir in chopped basil or chives for extra green flavor.
- Lemon garlic: Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for brightness.
These small changes let you make the dish fit your taste and what you have on hand.
FAQs
Q: Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
A: Greek yogurt is thicker and makes a creamier sauce. If you use regular yogurt, pick plain and stir in slowly on low heat to avoid curdling. You can also add a little cornstarch mixed with water to help thicken.
Q: What pasta works best?
A: Whole wheat pasta gives more fiber and a nutty taste, but any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli works fine.
Q: How do I keep the sauce from separating?
A: Cook on low heat after adding yogurt and stir gently. Do not boil after adding the yogurt. Adding the yogurt off the heat and then warming slowly helps keep sauce smooth.
Q: Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?
A: Yes. Freshly grated has a better flavor and melts more smoothly, but pre-grated works in a pinch.
Q: Is this dish good for meal prep?
A: Yes. It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently and add a splash of water or milk if the sauce is thick.
Q: Can I add vegetables?
A: Yes. Spinach, peas, or chopped zucchini work well. Add quick-cooking veggies near the end so they stay bright and slightly crisp.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Cook the chicken and pasta ahead of time and store separately in the fridge. Reheat both and combine with the sauce just before serving.
- Mix grated Parmesan and garlic into the yogurt and keep in a covered bowl. Warm slowly and add to the chicken at the last minute.
- Chop parsley and store in a small container in the fridge so you can add fresh garnish quickly.
- If you plan to freeze, leave out the yogurt when you freeze. Freeze chicken and pasta separately, then add fresh yogurt and Parmesan when you reheat.
Conclusion
If you want a one-pan approach similar to this recipe, a compact guide can help; try Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta (One-Pan) for a quick clean-up method. For another creamy take with clear steps and photos, see Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – I Am Homesteader for extra tips and variations.
Enjoy this warm, simple, and creamy pasta any night of the week.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the cubed chicken breast and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Reduce the heat to low, then add the Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese, stirring to combine until creamy.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, mixing well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.