Creamy Avocado Chicken Pasta

This Creamy Avocado Chicken Pasta is a luscious dish featuring ripe avocado blended into a silky, no-cook sauce, tossed with hot pasta and juicy grilled chicken breast. It is the perfect solution for a quick, nourishing meal with a fresh modern twist, bringing together healthy fats and high-quality protein in under 40 minutes.

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Whether you are looking for a post-workout refuel or a vibrant weeknight dinner, this pasta dish delivers on both flavor and nutrition. The combination of warm pasta and the cooling avocado sauce creates a unique dining experience that feels both indulgent and light.

Ingredients

• Poultry: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 400 g), 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) dried spaghetti or linguine
• Avocado Sauce: 2 ripe avocados (peeled and pitted), 1/2 cup (120 ml) Greek yogurt or sour cream, 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 clove garlic (minced), 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1/4 cup (10 g) fresh basil leaves
• Garnishes: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, red pepper flakes (all optional)

Instructions

1. Grill the Chicken

Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Brush chicken breasts with 1 tbsp olive oil and season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Grill for 6–7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and juices run clear. Transfer to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly.

2. Boil the Pasta

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.

3. Prepare the Sauce

While pasta cooks, make the sauce: In a food processor or blender, combine avocados, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, black pepper, and basil leaves. Blend until smooth and creamy.

4. Toss and Serve

In a large bowl, toss hot drained pasta with the avocado sauce, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time as needed for a silky consistency. Add sliced grilled chicken and gently toss to combine. Divide among plates and garnish with extra basil, Parmesan, lemon zest, or red pepper flakes as desired. Serve immediately.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

The key to a silky sauce is the reserved pasta water; the starch helps the avocado cream emulsify and coat the pasta strands evenly. Make sure to let the chicken rest before slicing to ensure the juices stay locked inside the meat. For the smoothest sauce, ensure your avocados are fully ripe and soft to the touch.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add cherry tomatoes or grilled zucchini for extra texture. To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based alternative and omit the Parmesan garnish. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta also works beautifully with this versatile sauce.

Serviervorschläge

This meal is best enjoyed immediately while the pasta is hot. To elevate the flavors, serve it with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio. The acidity in the wine perfectly complements the richness of the avocado and the brightness of the lemon juice.

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With its vibrant green color and savory grilled chicken, this Creamy Avocado Chicken Pasta is as visually appealing as it is delicious. It’s a fast, healthy, and satisfying meal that will surely become a recurring favorite in your kitchen rotation.

Recipe FAQ

→ Can I make the avocado sauce ahead of time?

The avocado sauce is best prepared just before serving to prevent browning. You can prepare components separately—grill the chicken and cook the pasta ahead—but blend and combine the sauce immediately before tossing to maintain its vibrant color and creamy texture.

→ What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Long, thin pasta like spaghetti or linguine works beautifully as the creamy sauce clings well to the strands. You can also use fettuccine or pappardelle. Whole wheat or gluten-free varieties are excellent alternatives if needed.

→ How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. The meat should be opaque throughout with no pink remaining.

→ Can I substitute Greek yogurt in the sauce?

Yes. Sour cream works as a direct substitute for the same tangy richness. For dairy-free options, use coconut yogurt or cashew cream. Adjust the lemon juice slightly if using a less tangy substitute.

→ What should I do if the sauce is too thick?

Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water and add it gradually to reach your desired consistency. The starchy water helps emulsify the sauce and makes it silkier without watering it down.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Absolutely. Omit the chicken and add grilled zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or crispy chickpeas for protein and texture. The creamy avocado sauce remains the flavorful foundation of the dish.