High Protein Chicken Pasta

Name: High Protein Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz whole grain pasta; 2 cups cooked, diced chicken breast; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup fresh spinach; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light Recipes

I love making High Protein Chicken Pasta because it's a fantastic way to combine health and flavor in one dish. Packed with chicken and whole grain pasta, it fuels my workouts and keeps me satisfied. The addition of fresh veggies and a light sauce elevates the nutrition profile, making this dish not just tasty but also nourishing. I can whip it up in about 30 minutes, which is perfect for busy weeknights. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you'll add it to your regular rotation!

Created by

Cressida Northwood

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:02:36.713Z

When I first tried making High Protein Chicken Pasta, I was amazed by how easy it was to create a delicious meal that didn't skimp on nutrition. The secret is in the combination of lean chicken breast and high-fiber pasta. This dish has become a staple in my home because it provides the energy I need without overwhelming me with carbs.

One particular evening, I experimented with adding spinach and cherry tomatoes, and the burst of flavors took the dish to another level. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in more vegetables if you’re looking to boost your daily intake. Give it a try!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Nutritious balance of protein and carbs for sustained energy
Delicious blend of flavors from fresh ingredients
Quick preparation makes it perfect for weeknight dinners

Perfecting the Pasta

When cooking pasta, it's essential to start with a large pot of boiling salted water. This not only helps the pasta cook evenly but also enhances its flavor. For this recipe, I recommend cooking the whole grain pasta until al dente, which usually means checking it around the 8 to 10-minute mark, depending on the brand. Al dente pasta has a slightly firm texture, perfect for holding onto sauces and ingredients without becoming mushy.

After draining the pasta, toss it with a small drizzle of olive oil to prevent it from sticking together. This simple technique also adds a hint of richness, further enhancing the dish’s overall flavor. If you prepare the pasta in advance, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat it gently before adding it to your sautéed chicken and veggies.

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes and spinach not only boosts the nutritional profile but also adds vibrant color and flavor to your High Protein Chicken Pasta. The sweetness of the cherry tomatoes complements the savory chicken perfectly. I prefer tossing them into the skillet whole initially, allowing them to burst and release their juices during cooking, which creates a light sauce that beautifully coats the pasta.

The addition of fresh spinach serves multiple purposes: it adds essential nutrients, enhances the dish's texture, and contributes a mild earthiness that pairs well with the other flavors. If you don’t have fresh spinach on hand, you can substitute with kale or even frozen spinach; just ensure it's well-drained to avoid excess moisture.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz whole grain pasta
2 cups cooked, diced chicken breast
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup fresh spinach
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the whole grain pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Chicken and Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Then, add diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, and spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve

Dish out the pasta onto plates and enjoy warm!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving.

Making It Your Own

Feel free to customize this recipe by incorporating your favorite vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli would all work wonderfully. You can also switch up the protein—grilled shrimp or turkey would make excellent alternatives to chicken. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary if you're using a different protein, so adjust accordingly to ensure everything is safely cooked through.

For those watching their carbs, you can replace the whole grain pasta with spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash to create a low-carb version of this dish without sacrificing flavor. Just be careful not to overcook the zucchini to maintain its crisp texture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This High Protein Chicken Pasta is perfect for meal prep! You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water or broth in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed through. This method helps to rehydrate the pasta and prevent it from becoming dry.

If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and it should last for about 2 to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above for a quick weeknight dinner!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular pasta instead of whole grain?

Yes, you can use regular pasta, but whole grain offers more fiber and nutrients.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to eat.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.