why make this recipe
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delicious meal that combines savory chicken with rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan. It’s a simple recipe that’s quick to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. The use of Greek yogurt adds a creamy texture while keeping it lighter than heavy creams. Plus, this dish packs protein and is easy to customize with your favorite vegetables.
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
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken breast and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until well combined.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
how to serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This dish can be served right out of the skillet for a casual dinner. You can place a large bowl on the table and let everyone help themselves, or serve individual plates garnished with extra parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
how to store Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm it on the stove with a splash of water or chicken broth to help loosen the sauce.
tips to make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Make sure the chicken is cooked through but not overcooked to keep it juicy.
- For extra flavor, you can add spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes to the mix.
- Adjust the garlic to your taste; you can use less if you’re not a big fan.
- If you like more sauce, consider adding a little milk or additional Greek yogurt to achieve your desired consistency.
variation
You can easily switch up the protein by using shrimp or turkey instead of chicken. For a vegetarian version, consider using mushrooms or firm tofu. Additionally, adding some diced bell peppers or zucchini can offer extra nutrients and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use regular pasta instead of whole wheat?
Yes, you can use regular pasta if you prefer, but whole wheat offers more fiber and nutrients.
What can I use if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can use Pecorino Romano or a combination of mozzarella and nutritional yeast.
Can I freeze Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it. Just make sure to cool it completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers. Reheat when ready to eat, but note that it may not be as creamy once thawed.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta Can substitute with regular pasta if preferred.
For the Chicken
- 1 lb lean chicken breast, diced Can substitute with shrimp or turkey.
- 1 tbsp olive oil Used for cooking the chicken.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Adjust garlic to taste.
- 1 cup Greek yogurt Provides creaminess and reduces calories.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Can substitute with Pecorino Romano.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish Adds freshness to the dish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cooking
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken breast and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese until well combined.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.