If you’re searching for a cozy, flavor-packed dinner that won’t weigh you down, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is about to become your go-to weeknight hero. This one-pot wonder brings together juicy chicken, a silky Parmesan-laced sauce, and protein-packed chickpea pasta for a bowl that’s both wholesome and unbelievably satisfying.
Why You Should Make This Recipe
- Effortless One-Pot Magic: The entire Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta comes together in just one pan, making cleanup blissfully easy—perfect for busy nights!
- Nutritious Meets Comfort: Chickpea pasta and Greek yogurt add extra protein and creaminess, giving you all the coziness of classic pasta with a lighter, healthier twist.
- Big, Bold Flavors: Every bite bursts with aromatic garlic, herby Italian seasoning, and nutty Parmesan, satisfying even your most indulgent cravings.
- Customizable for Everyone: Whether you’re eating gluten-free, vegetarian, or just want to play with pantry staples, this recipe makes it easy to adapt to your needs.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Each ingredient in Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta plays an essential role in building balanced flavors and textures. These wholesome staples bring savory depth, velvety creaminess, and gorgeous color to every forkful—plus, they’re easy to swap if you need!
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Thighs offer rich flavor and stay ultra-juicy; swap for chicken breast, tofu, or your favorite plant-based protein if desired.
- Italian seasoning, paprika, and garlic powder: This aromatic trio infuses the chicken with bold, savory notes and a hint of warm spice.
- Olive oil: Adds heart-healthy richness for browning your chicken; avocado oil works in a pinch.
- Butter: One tablespoon gives the sauce depth, golden color, and an irresistible silkiness.
- Yellow onion: Sweated gently, it creates a sweet, aromatic base for the whole dish.
- Garlic: Don’t skimp—fresh, minced garlic delivers that signature punch you crave in Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta.
- Reduced-sodium chicken broth: Lends flavor and helps the pasta cook right in the pan; swap for veggie broth to make this vegetarian.
- Chickpea pasta: Packed with protein and fiber, chickpea pasta keeps the dish wholesome and gluten-free; regular, lentil, or brown rice pasta work too.
- Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat): Delivers tang, creaminess, and a sneaky boost of protein—sour cream is a solid substitute if preferred.
- Whole milk: Adds lush texture; try half-and-half for extra richness or plant-based milk for dairy-free needs.
- Parmesan cheese (grated): The star for salty umami and creamy sauce—freshly grated is always best!
- Parsley (chopped): A sprinkle adds freshness and bright green color to finish.
- Salt and pepper: Adjust at the end for perfect flavor balance.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Season & Sear the Chicken
In a small bowl, blend together Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, plus a pinch of salt and pepper. Pat this savory mix generously onto both sides of your chicken thighs. Heat up your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat—when it shimmers, lay the chicken in and sear for 5 to 6 minutes per side. Once the golden crust forms and the chicken is perfectly cooked through, transfer it to a cutting board to rest (and let those juices redistribute!).
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
Lower the heat and melt a touch of butter in the same pan—no need to clean it, the brown bits add tons of flavor! Add your diced onion, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, then toss in the minced garlic and let it sizzle for one aromatic minute. The house will smell amazing at this point!
Step 3: Cook the Pasta in Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up every delicious golden bit stuck to the pan—this step unlocks extra flavor for your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Add the uncooked chickpea pasta and ensure it’s mostly submerged; splash in up to ½ cup more water if needed. Cover and let it cook for 7 to 9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is perfectly al dente.
Step 4: Finish the Sauce
While the pasta bubbles away, slice the rested chicken into bite-sized strips. As soon as the pasta’s done, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the Greek yogurt, whole milk, and that mountain of grated Parmesan until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce. Drop in the fresh parsley and taste—more salt and pepper as needed.
Step 5: Combine & Serve
Gently fold the sliced chicken into the luscious pasta. Give everything a thorough toss so every noodle is coated in the garlicky, cheesy goodness. Dish up right away and get ready for smiles all around the table!
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Garnishes
Top each serving with an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan and a flurry of fresh parsley—or try a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat. Cracked black pepper and a drizzle of good olive oil add that restaurant-style finishing touch!
Side Dishes
This cozy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta shines alongside a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette, simple roasted broccoli, or garlicky green beans. Warm, crusty bread is never out of place for sopping up that silky sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Dress up your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta by serving it in shallow pasta bowls, topped with extra herbs and a big peel of Parmesan. For gatherings, turn it into a beautiful pasta bake: transfer everything to a baking dish, sprinkle more cheese over the top, and broil until bubbly and golden.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let leftovers cool fully before storing in airtight containers. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days—perfect for quick lunches or easy weeknight repeats.
Freezing
Want to freeze for meal prep? Allow the pasta to cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta freezes well for up to 2 months—just keep in mind the sauce may separate a bit upon thawing, but a gentle stir will bring it back together.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or broth as you warm it up to restore that signature creamy texture, stirring until everything is piping hot and luscious again.
FAQs
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Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breast works well—just be mindful not to overcook it, as it can dry out faster than thighs. Pound the breasts to an even thickness for the juiciest results.
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How can I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. For extra protein, add sautéed mushrooms, white beans, or plant-based chicken strips.
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Will other types of pasta work for this recipe?
Definitely! You can substitute chickpea pasta with any favorite short pasta—like penne, rotini, or gluten-free lentil pasta. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary.
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Can I prep Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta ahead for meal prep?
Yes! You can make the entire dish, divide it into containers, and enjoy throughout the week. The sauce may thicken as it sits, but a splash of broth or milk revives it to creamy perfection.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting, so universally appealing about a bowl of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta—especially when it’s brimming with flavor and goodness! I hope you try this recipe soon and make it your own. Don’t forget to savor every creamy, cheesy bite with someone you love!
Print
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Stovetop
- Method: Stovetop
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A delicious and healthy one-pot meal, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is packed with flavor and easy to make. Tender chicken thighs seasoned with Italian herbs are combined with chickpea pasta in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil extra virgin
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp butter salted
For the Garlic Parmesan Pasta:
- 1 medium yellow onion diced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups chicken broth reduced sodium
- 8 oz chickpea pasta uncooked
- 1/3 cup Greek yogurt plain, full-fat preferred
- 1/3 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 tbsp parsley chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- For the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and salt and pepper. Pat the dry seasonings onto each side of chicken thighs. Cook the chicken in a skillet until done, then set aside to rest.
- For the Garlic Parmesan Pasta: In the same pan, sauté onion and garlic. Add chicken broth and pasta, cooking until pasta is al dente. Stir in Greek yogurt, milk, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Add chicken back in and mix well. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Make it vegetarian by omitting the chicken. Substitute with tofu or plant-based chicken.
- Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring the broth is gluten-free.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 730mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
