Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Quick & Delicious
Ever had a pasta dish that makes you want to twirl your fork in delight? Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is that kind of dish! It blends rich flavors and wholesome ingredients into a delightful one-pan meal that’s ready in no time. What makes this recipe so special? It’s creamy, comforting, and oh-so-easy to whip up after a long day. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!
Why Make This Recipe
Need a quick win for dinner? Look no further! Here’s why you’ll absolutely love making this dish:
- Time-Saver: This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes — perfect for those busy weeknights!
- One-Pan Wonder: Less mess means you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time doing dishes. Who doesn’t want that?
- Family-Friendly: With creamy goodness and cheesy flavors, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
Let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps for a dish that’s both satisfying and scrumptious:
- Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in the cooked chicken and Greek yogurt, mixing until fully combined.
- Add Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce, ensuring each strand is coated evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (Overview)
Making this dish is as easy as pie! Start by boiling your pasta until it’s just right. Pro Tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic — it makes all the difference! Once that garlic is fragrant, you’ll add the shredded chicken and Greek yogurt, creating a silky base. Then comes the Parmesan cheese for that yummy cheesy texture. Finally, toss in your pasta, coat it well, and season to taste. It’s a quick, no-fuss process that brings serious flavor!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Serve this creamy delight in a big bowl, and watch it shine! Pair it with a light green salad for a refreshing crunch or just enjoy it with a loaf of crusty bread to soak up that luscious sauce. The golden hue of the Parmesan and the bright green of the parsley just make it all pop. Plus, the aroma will have everyone gathering around the table faster than you can say “dinner’s ready!”
How to Store Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This dish keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Just pop it in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to a month. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat on the stove or in the microwave. It might not be quite as creamy as the first time, but it’ll still hit the spot!
Tips to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Here are a few insider tricks to up your pasta game:
- Greek Yogurt Swaps: If you’re out of Greek yogurt, sour cream works great too!
- Don’t Skimp on Seasoning: Add a pinch more salt and pepper if you like a little extra kick.
- Add Veggies: Toss in some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor.
Variation
Feeling adventurous? Try adding different proteins, like shrimp or mushrooms, for a twist on flavor. You can also swap the whole wheat pasta with gluten-free options if needed. For a vegan version, use cashew cream instead of Greek yogurt and skip the cheese. Options galore!
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients and assemble it right before serving.
2. How can I store leftovers?
Keep any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze them for up to a month.
3. What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
Sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative works well too, depending on your dietary needs.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta
- 2 pieces chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup Greek yogurt Can substitute with sour cream.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing garlic.
- Salt and pepper to taste Adjust according to preference.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in the cooked chicken and Greek yogurt, mixing until fully combined.
- Add Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce, ensuring each strand is coated evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Printable Recipe Card
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