Hello friends, Chef André here 👨🍳
When you’re craving creamy pasta but still want to eat clean, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta hits the sweet spot. It’s rich, comforting, and full of garlic-Parmesan flavor yet surprisingly light and protein-packed.
By using Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream, whole wheat pasta, and lean chicken breast, this recipe delivers everything we love about creamy pasta without the heaviness. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, fitness-friendly meal prep, or anytime you want comfort food that actually supports your goals.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This recipe checks all the right boxes:
- Ready in just 25 minutes
- High-protein and balanced
- Creamy without heavy cream
- Perfect for meal prep
- Family-friendly and satisfying
Healthy doesn’t have to mean boring—and this dish proves it.
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz whole wheat pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- Baby spinach
- Broccoli florets
- Red pepper flakes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Cook the Pasta
Cook pasta in salted water according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
Step 2 – Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 3 – Build the Sauce
Lower heat. Add garlic to the skillet and sauté briefly until fragrant. Stir in Greek yogurt, Parmesan, and a splash of pasta water until smooth.
Step 4 – Combine
Add cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet. Toss gently, adding more pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce.
Step 5 – Finish
Taste and adjust seasoning. Add veggies or red pepper flakes if using.
Serve warm and enjoy.
Chef André’s Healthy Pasta Tips
- Always temper Greek yogurt with warm pasta water to avoid curdling
- Freshly grated Parmesan melts better
- Whole wheat pasta adds fiber and keeps you fuller longer
Simple techniques make a big difference.
Easy Variations
- Swap chicken for shrimp
- Use gluten-free pasta if needed
- Add lemon zest for brightness
- Toss in roasted vegetables
One base recipe, endless options.
What to Serve With Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Simple side salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Steamed green beans
A complete, balanced dinner.
Storage & Meal Prep
- Store in airtight containers up to 4 days
- Reheat gently with a splash of water
- Ideal for weekly meal prep
For safe handling of cooked chicken, follow USDA Food Safety guidelines:
https://www.usda.gov/food-safety
FAQ – Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Is this pasta really healthy?
Yes—high protein, balanced carbs, and lighter fats.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use dairy-free yogurt and vegan Parmesan.
Does Greek yogurt taste tangy?
Not once combined with garlic and Parmesan.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~420 kcal
- Protein: ~38 g
- Carbohydrates: ~40 g
- Fat: ~14 g
Values vary by ingredients used.
Conclusion by Chef André
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is proof that comfort food and healthy eating can live happily on the same plate. Creamy, satisfying, and fast—it’s the kind of recipe you’ll keep coming back to after long days.
If you try it, let me know—extra garlic or extra cheese?
Chef André 👨🍳