How Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Transforms Weeknight Dinners

As a busy woman juggling work, family, and everything in between, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a delicious dinner on a weeknight. That’s why I’m excited to share my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe with you! This dish is not only a breeze to make, but it also packs a punch of flavor and nutrition. If you’re looking for easy pasta recipes that your family will love, this one-pot wonder is sure to become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for 30-minute meals.
• Healthy and packed with protein, making it a great choice for High Protein Chicken Recipes.
• One-pot cleanup means less time scrubbing and more time enjoying your meal.
• Versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins.
• Deliciously creamy, satisfying your cravings for creamy garlic pasta.

Ingredients

To make this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 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)
• 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 cups chicken broth (reduced sodium)
• 8 oz chickpea pasta (uncooked)
• ⅓ cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat preferred)
• ⅓ cup whole milk
• ¾ cup parmesan cheese (grated)
• 2 tbsp parsley (chopped)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this mouthwatering dish:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the pot, seasoning them with Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the uncooked chickpea pasta and stir well.
5. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
6. Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
7. Stir in the Greek yogurt, whole milk, and grated parmesan cheese until creamy and well combined.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some tips to ensure your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly:

• Feel free to substitute the chickpea pasta with your favorite type of pasta for a different texture.
• For added nutrition, toss in some spinach or broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste; a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick!
• Make sure to use reduced sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.

How to Serve

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate your dinner experience by serving it with:

• A refreshing Creamy Cucumber Salad for a cool contrast.
• A side of Cucumber Tomato Salad for a burst of freshness.
• Some crunchy Broccoli Salad to add some crunch and color to your plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy. If you want to freeze it, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready for a quick family dinner!

In conclusion, my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not just another recipe; it’s a solution for those busy weeknights when you need something quick, healthy, and delicious. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s bound to become one of your go-to weeknight dinner ideas. So, gather your ingredients and let’s make dinner a delightful experience!