Healthy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Author: Emily

Published: 2 June 2025

Updated: 6 January 2026

why make this recipe

I love recipes that feel indulgent but keep things light.
This creamy garlic Parmesan pasta uses Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
It gives you that silky sauce without the extra heaviness.
It comes together fast on weeknights.
If you like creamy, simple dinners, try my creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta for another cozy option.

how to make Healthy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This is an easy, weeknight-friendly dish.
Prep the chicken and garlic first.
Then cook the pasta while the chicken browns.

Ingredients:
8 oz whole wheat pasta, 1 lb lean chicken breast, diced, 1 cup Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 tablespoon olive oil, Salt and pepper to taste, Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Healthy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Directions:

Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken breast and season with salt and pepper. Cook until chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Lower the heat and stir in the Greek yogurt and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.

If you want a tomato twist, this technique pairs well with the flavors in my creamy tomato garlic pasta.

how to serve Healthy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Serve this straight from the pan.
Top with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley.
A simple green salad brightens the plate.
I also like serving it with a buttery roll.
For a richer sides idea, try pairing with my cowboy butter chicken pasta as inspiration for bold, buttery flavors.

how to store Healthy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Cool the pasta to room temperature first.
Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the fridge up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on low heat.
Add a splash of milk or water while reheating to loosen the sauce.

tips to make Healthy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Use Greek yogurt at room temperature. It blends easier.
Don’t boil the yogurt. Keep heat low when you stir it in.
Taste and adjust salt at the end. Parmesan adds saltiness.
Swap in whole grain or gluten-free pasta as you like.
If mushrooms are your thing, this method mirrors what I do in my creamy mushroom pasta for deep, savory notes.

variation (if any)

Turn this into a beefy dish by swapping chicken for browned ground beef.
Add onions or spinach for more veggies.
You can also stir in sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy kick.
If you want that hearty swap, try techniques I use in the creamy beef pasta.

FAQs

Q: Can I use sour cream instead of Greek yogurt?
A: You can, but sour cream is tangier and thinner. It will change the texture slightly. Use full-fat sour cream and warm gently.

Q: Will the sauce separate when reheating?
A: Heat slowly and stir often. Add a splash of milk or pasta water to bring the sauce back together.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes. Use a dairy-free yogurt and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. Keep the heat low to avoid curdling.

Healthy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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