Let’s be real for a second. Finding truly delicious gluten-free and dairy free chicken pasta recipes is like trying to find a sock that mysteriously disappeared in the laundry. You know it exists, but where?
If you’ve ever felt the pain of having to turn down a creamy, cheesy pasta dish at a dinner party because of food sensitivities, trust me, you are not alone.
I’ve been there, sitting awkwardly with my sad little plate of plain salad while everyone else indulges in gooey, creamy goodness. But here’s the truth, just because you avoid gluten and dairy doesn’t mean your meals have to be bland or boring.
In fact, some of the best pasta dishes I’ve ever had were gluten-free and dairy-free and tasted really amazing. It’s all about choosing the right ingredients, seasonings, and cooking techniques.
This post isn’t just another roundup of the same old recipes you’ve seen a thousand times. I’ve done the deep dive (so you don’t have to) and put together these gluten-free and dairy-free chicken pasta recipes that are so good, you’ll forget they’re “free-from” anything, and your taste buds will never miss the gluten or dairy.
So grab your favorite gluten-free pasta, your best non-dairy swaps, and let’s get cooking
25 GLUTEN-FREE AND DAIRY FREE CHICKEN PASTA RECIPES THAT TASTE AMAZING
1. Cashew-Based Alfredo Chicken Pasta
The magic of cashews makes a dairy-free Alfredo sauce that’s just as creamy as the classic. Soaking raw cashews and blending them with roasted garlic, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, and a splash of unsweetened almond milk creates a velvety sauce.
Adding pan-seared chicken breast and tossing it with gluten-free fettuccine results in a restaurant-quality dish. A sprinkle of fresh parsley and cracked black pepper enhances the flavor even more.
Insider’s Hint: To deepen the flavor, add a teaspoon of miso paste or a splash of coconut aminos to the sauce.
2. Coconut Cream Garlic Chicken Pasta
This dish relies on the natural richness of full-fat coconut milk to create a luxuriously smooth garlic sauce.
Sautéed garlic, shallots, and a hint of white wine form the base, while tender chicken breast soaks up all the delicious flavors.
Toss with brown rice pasta for a hearty meal, and finish with toasted pine nuts for added texture.
Insider’s Hint:: Roast the garlic before adding it to the sauce for a milder, caramelized taste.
3. Avocado Pesto Chicken Pasta
A ripe avocado blends beautifully with fresh basil, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil, creating a thick, creamy pesto.
Hemp seeds replace traditional pine nuts, making this sauce both dairy-free and nut-free. Grilled chicken adds a smoky contrast, and gluten-free spaghetti ensures this dish is both indulgent and nutritious.
Insider’s Hint: Stir in cherry tomatoes and arugula for a burst of freshness and extra nutrients.
4. Butternut Squash Chicken Pasta Bake
Blending roasted butternut squash with almond milk, garlic, and nutritional yeast results in a cheese-like sauce that’s perfect for baking.
Layering it with gluten-free pasta, shredded chicken, and sautéed mushrooms creates a baked pasta dish that’s both hearty and nourishing. \The top layer turns golden and slightly crispy, adding a delightful contrast to the creamy interior.
Insider’s Hint: Sprinkle crushed gluten-free crackers mixed with olive oil on top before baking for a crunchy finish.
5. Fire-Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Pasta
This dish brings out the best of smoky flavors. By blending roasted red peppers with cashews, smoked paprika, and a touch of olive oil, you create a creamy, smoky sauce that’s perfect for grilled chicken.
Toss it all together with your favorite gluten-free pasta, and you’ll have a dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor.
The cashews add richness, while the smoked paprika brings that irresistible smoky punch that everyone will love.
Insider’s Hint: Stir in caramelized onions towards the end of cooking for a subtle sweetness and an extra layer of flavor that elevates this dish. The richness of the onions will complement the smoky sauce perfectly.
6. Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta
This gluten-free and dairy-free chicken pasta recipe offers a refreshing, light, and zesty flavor. The sauce, made from olive oil, fresh garlic, and the bright tang of lemon juice, perfectly complements the grilled chicken and gluten-free fusilli.
Fresh parsley adds a herbaceous pop, making each bite feel fresh and rejuvenating. Ideal for a quick weeknight meal, this dish has a delightful balance between simplicity and flavor.
Insider’s Hint: Toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds provide a crunchy texture and enhance the dish’s depth.
7. Zucchini Ribbon Chicken Pasta with a Balsamic Glaze
A creative take on gluten-free and dairy-free chicken pasta recipes, this dish swaps traditional pasta for zucchini ribbons, which add a refreshing crunch and lightness.
The shredded chicken pairs perfectly with sun-dried tomatoes, and a sweet tangy balsamic glaze finishes the dish with a bold, balanced flavor.
This recipe is a perfect low-carb, gluten-free alternative that doesn’t sacrifice taste.
Insider’s Hint: Marinate the chicken in balsamic vinegar for a few hours to deepen the flavor profile and give the dish extra richness.
8. Mediterranean Chicken Pasta with Dairy-Free Yogurt Dressing
A Mediterranean-inspired gluten-free and dairy-free chicken pasta recipe, this dish adds Kalamata olives, crunchy cucumbers, and red onions, offering a burst of savory, tangy goodness.
A dairy-free yogurt dressing mimics the beloved tzatziki sauce, creating a creamy base without the dairy.
It’s a refreshing, wholesome meal that’s perfect for warm-weather gatherings or meal prepping.
Insider’s Hint: Try using gluten-free orzo pasta for an interesting texture twist and added flair to this Mediterranean dish.
9. Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Chicken Pasta
Packed with vibrant flavors, this gluten-free and dairy-free chicken pasta recipe combines the concentrated sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with the slight bitterness of fresh spinach.
The olive oil and garlic sauce keeps things simple but satisfying, letting the bold ingredients shine.
The shredded chicken adds heartiness, while the spinach brings freshness, making this dish a perfect balance of flavors.
Insider’s Hint: Soak the sun-dried tomatoes in warm water before chopping to rehydrate them, which will bring out their natural sweetness and make them easier to incorporate into the pasta.
10. Cold Chicken and Arugula Pasta Salad for Warm Days
This gluten-free and dairy-free chicken pasta recipe is the perfect solution for warm days when you crave something light and refreshing.
The peppery flavor of arugula pairs beautifully with shredded chicken and gluten-free fusilli, all tossed in a bright and tangy lemon-garlic dressing.
This dish makes a great make-ahead lunch or picnic option, keeping well in the fridge for a few days.
Insider’s Hint: Garnish with dairy-free feta crumbles (made from tofu and lemon juice) for a tangy finish that mimics traditional feta cheese.
11. Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta with a Creamy Kick
If you’re craving a dish with bold, spicy flavors, these gluten-free and dairy-free chicken pasta recipes won’t disappoint.
Cajun seasoning smoked paprika, cayenne, and oregano gives this meal an unforgettable kick, while coconut milk smooths things out with a creamy texture that balances the heat.
Grilled chicken brings heartiness to the dish, making it both satisfying and full of flavor. It’s a meal that not only excites your taste buds but also fills you up, perfect for anyone looking to add some spice to their dinner routine.
Insider’s Hint: Choose gluten-free penne pasta for optimal sauce absorption, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
12. Dairy-Free Carbonara with Chicken
A rich and creamy take on a classic carbonara, this gluten-free and dairy-free chicken pasta recipe swaps out traditional cream and cheese for a smooth, egg-based sauce.
The combination of garlic, dairy-free Parmesan (a mix of nutritional yeast and cashew powder), and crispy turkey bacon creates a comforting, savory dish that will make you forget it’s dairy-free.
Insider’s Hint: Toss the pasta with the sauce off the heat to avoid scrambling the eggs and ensure a silky texture throughout.
13. Buffalo Chicken Pasta with a Cooling Dairy-Free Ranch
This gluten-free and dairy-free chicken pasta recipe offers a spicy yet cooling flavor profile.
A tangy buffalo sauce, made from hot sauce and coconut oil, coats the gluten-free pasta and grilled chicken.
The spicy notes are mellowed by a creamy dairy-free ranch dressing, balancing the heat and making this dish as satisfying as it is bold.
Insider’s Hint: Add a touch of honey to the buffalo sauce to balance the spice and bring out a natural sweetness.
14. Pumpkin Sage Chicken Pasta
Perfect for fall, this gluten-free and dairy-free chicken pasta recipe combines the smoothness of pumpkin purée with earthy sage, creating a creamy, cozy sauce.
Almond milk helps to lighten the sauce while still providing a rich texture.
This dish offers the perfect balance of autumnal flavors with the heartiness of grilled chicken, making it a comforting and warming meal for any time of year.
Insider’s Hint: Roast the pumpkin for a deeper, caramelized flavor that will enhance the sauce and give it a rich, natural sweetness.
15. Chicken Bolognese Over Lentil Pasta
A twist on the traditional bolognese, this gluten-free and dairy-free chicken pasta recipe uses ground chicken to create a hearty, slow-simmered sauce made with tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil.
Paired with lentil pasta, it’s a nutritious and satisfying alternative to classic pasta dishes.
The richness of the sauce and the earthiness of the lentils combine to make this dish both wholesome and filling.
Insider’s Hint: Let the bolognese sauce simmer for at least 45 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and develop a deep, complex taste.
16. One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
This simple yet delicious dish is the epitome of comfort food with a healthy twist.
The garlic butter sauce uses olive oil and nutritional yeast to mimic the richness of dairy butter, infusing every bite with savory goodness.
The chicken is cooked in the same pan as the pasta, so it all comes together with minimal cleanup, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.
Insider’s Hint: Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine after cooking the chicken. The wine will lift all those tasty browned bits from the pan, creating a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat
17. Spaghetti Squash Chicken Marinara
If you’re looking for a low-carb pasta alternative, spaghetti squash is your best friend.
The spaghetti-like texture of the roasted squash pairs perfectly with a simple homemade marinara sauce made from crushed tomatoes, garlic, and basil.
Shredded chicken adds protein and makes this dish hearty, satisfying, and absolutely delicious.
Insider’s Hint: Roast the spaghetti squash with a drizzle of olive oil and garlic. This simple step infuses the squash with extra flavor, making it a more savory base for your marinara sauce. Be sure to season the squash generously with salt and pepper to enhance its natural sweetness.
18. Chicken Primavera Pasta with Basil Olive Oil
This dish celebrates fresh vegetables and the flavors of spring. Sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes bring color and vibrancy to the table, while grilled chicken adds a protein-packed punch.
The basil olive oil dressing is light but full of flavor, perfectly complementing the fresh produce and grilled chicken.
Insider’s Hint: Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the dressing. The quality of the oil really shines through in the dish, elevating the freshness of the vegetables and making the pasta taste much more flavorful.
19. Teriyaki-Glazed Chicken Pasta
A sweet-savory delight, this dish is an Asian-inspired take on classic pasta. The teriyaki glaze made from tamari, coconut nectar (or brown sugar), and a little garlic creates the perfect balance of sweetness and umami.
Drizzle this sauce over gluten-free pasta and top with grilled chicken, and you’ve got a meal that’s bursting with flavor.
Insider’s Hint: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for extra crunch and nuttiness. The sesame seeds also enhance the authentic teriyaki flavor, adding a subtle earthy taste that complements the sweetness of the glaze.
20. Dairy-Free Tikka Masala Chicken Pasta
If you love bold, spicy flavors, this Indian-inspired pasta dish is sure to become a favorite.
Coconut milk provides the creamy base for the tikka masala sauce, while garam masala, turmeric, and cumin bring the heat and complexity. The chicken is infused with these flavors, making each bite deeply satisfying.
Insider’s Hint: Add fresh cilantro to the finished dish for a burst of brightness and a pop of color.
Cilantro not only balances the spices but also adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy coconut milk sauce. For extra heat, sprinkle some red chili flakes on top just before serving.
21. Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta
If you’re craving something creamy, savory, and slightly sweet, look no further than this Thai peanut chicken pasta.
A rich peanut butter and coconut milk sauce creates the perfect creamy base, while soy sauce, lime juice, and a hint of maple syrup give it the ideal balance of salty, tangy, and sweet. The chicken is coated in this sauce, making every bite burst with flavor.
Insider’s Hint: For an extra crunch and nuttiness, sprinkle chopped peanuts or cashews on top of the pasta before serving. The additional texture enhances the overall dish, making it even more satisfying and adding a bit of extra protein.
22. Pesto Rosso Chicken Pasta
This dish takes the traditional pesto up a notch with sun-dried tomato pesto.
Made by blending sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and herbs, this pesto has a bold, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with grilled chicken and gluten-free pasta.
The addition of a sprinkle of dairy-free Parmesan (nutritional yeast or a cashew-based version) gives it a cheesy vibe without the dairy.
Insider’s Hint: Add a splash of pasta water to the pesto to make the sauce creamier and allow it to cling better to the pasta. Pasta water is full of starch, which helps bind the sauce and create a silky texture.
23. Gochujang Chicken Pasta
If you’re in the mood for something spicy and full of depth, this gochujang chicken pasta will do the trick.
Gochujang, a Korean chili paste, adds a deep, savory spiciness that’s tempered by a touch of sweet and tangy vinegar. This dish is packed with bold flavors that are balanced perfectly by the gluten-free pasta and grilled chicken.
Insider’s Hint: Top with a drizzle of sesame oil for an extra layer of umami. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds will also enhance the flavor profile and add a nice texture contrast to the soft chicken and pasta.
24. Truffle Mushroom Chicken Pasta
This indulgent yet dairy-free pasta dish is perfect for when you want something rich and earthy.
The truffle oil adds a luxurious depth of flavor, while sautéed mushrooms bring their umami richness to the table. Grilled chicken is the perfect complement, making this dish both savory and filling.
Insider’s Hint: Make sure to use high-quality truffle oil, as it can be the star ingredient of this dish.
Truffle oil has a powerful flavor, so a little goes a long way. You can also finish the dish with some freshly shaved truffle (if available) for an even more decadent touch.
25. Caribbean Jerk Chicken Pasta
This Caribbean jerk chicken pasta brings the warmth of jerk seasoning and the richness of coconut milk together in a bold and flavorful dish.
The jerk seasoning, a mix of aromatic spices like allspice, thyme, and cinnamon, provides a vibrant base that gives the chicken a spicy kick and depth of flavor.
The coconut milk sauce adds a creamy balance, mellowing the heat and offering a tropical, slightly sweet touch that perfectly complements the spiciness of the seasoning.
The grilled chicken, coated with jerk seasoning, absorbs all of these intense flavors, creating a deliciously aromatic experience in every bite. Served over gluten-free pasta, this dish offers a balance of heat, sweetness, and creaminess in each mouthful, making it a delightful and comforting meal.
Insider’s Hint: Add some pineapple chunks or a drizzle of lime juice to enhance the tropical flavors and give the dish an extra burst of freshness.
I know how tough it can be to find meals that check all the boxes, delicious, satisfying, and still fit within your dietary needs. But trust me, these gluten-free and dairy-free chicken pasta recipes do just that. Packed with flavor and easy to make, they’re meals you’ll actually crave.
From light, fresh options to hearty, comforting dishes, each one delivers in every way.
So, the next time you’re looking for something tasty to cook, give one of these recipes a shot. You’ll be amazed at how delicious gluten and dairy-free can be.
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