High Protein Chicken Pasta

Name: High Protein Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g chicken breast, diced; 250g whole wheat pasta; 1 cup spinach, fresh; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1/2 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Meals Recipes

I absolutely love making this High Protein Chicken Pasta! It's been a game-changer for my meal prep and is perfect for satisfying my cravings without compromising on my nutritional goals. The combination of tender chicken, wholesome pasta, and vibrant vegetables not only makes for a delicious dish but also packs in an impressive amount of protein. Whether I'm fueling up after a workout or simply enjoying a comforting dinner, this recipe never fails to hit the spot. Plus, it's quick and easy to whip up on busy weeknights!

Created by

Amelia Roberts

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:01:34.488Z

When I first tried making High Protein Chicken Pasta, I was surprised at how easy it was to create a nutritious and satisfying meal all in one pot. I experimented with various vegetables to find the best combinations, which led me to add spinach and bell peppers. The key is to cook the chicken just right—tender and juicy—before adding the pasta, making it a perfect protein-packed dish for any occasion.

What I love about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can switch up the vegetables or even the type of pasta based on what you have on hand. I also like to sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top for an extra flavor boost. Pairing this dish with a side salad makes for a complete meal that's not just filling but also incredibly delicious!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with lean protein for muscle recovery
Deliciously creamy sauce that enhances flavor
Quick and easy to make, perfect for meal prep

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

The quality of the chicken breast used in this recipe significantly affects the overall flavor and texture of the dish. I recommend selecting fresh, organic chicken when possible, as it can enhance the dish's taste and nutritional profile. It's important to dice the chicken into even pieces to ensure consistent cooking. Overcooking can lead to dryness, so keep a close eye on it while it's in the skillet, looking for a golden-brown finish.

Using whole wheat pasta instead of traditional pasta not only boosts the protein content but also adds a nutty flavor and increased fiber. This choice helps to keep you full longer and supports digestive health. If you're in a pinch or need a gluten-free option, consider substituting with quinoa or chickpea pasta, both of which maintain a similar texture and offer ample protein.

Perfecting the Creamy Sauce

The sauce's creaminess comes primarily from the Greek yogurt, which is a fantastic way to add richness without excessive fat. For a tangier flavor, opt for plain yogurt instead of flavored varieties. When stirring in the yogurt, make sure to remove the skillet from heat; this prevents the yogurt from curdling. Stir vigorously until the mixture is well-combined and glossy, creating a luscious coating for the pasta and chicken.

For added depth, you might consider incorporating a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Adjusting these flavors can make this dish even more personalized. If you prefer a vegan alternative, swap the Greek yogurt for a cashew-based cream; just blend soaked cashews with a little water until smooth.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smooth and efficient.

Ingredients

300g chicken breast, diced
250g whole wheat pasta
1 cup spinach, fresh
1 bell pepper, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Ensure all ingredients are measured and ready to go for a seamless cooking experience.

Instructions

Prepping your workspace can allow you to focus solely on cooking.

Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 7-10 minutes until browned and cooked through.

Sauté Vegetables

Add minced garlic and sliced bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for another 3 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Prepare Pasta

While the chicken and vegetables are cooking, boil water in a separate pot and cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Combine Ingredients

Once the chicken and vegetables are cooked, pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add cooked pasta and spinach, stirring gently until the spinach wilts.

Finish with Yogurt

Remove from heat and stir in Greek yogurt until well combined. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve

Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your delicious High Protein Chicken Pasta while it's still warm!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice and herbs prior to cooking. This will enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

This High Protein Chicken Pasta is versatile, making it an excellent candidate for various meal ideas. One option is to serve it as a standalone dish, topped with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for an extra savory finish. However, you can also pair it with a simple side salad or crusty whole-grain bread for a heartier meal. I often enjoy it with a glass of sparkling water infused with lemon for a refreshing accompaniment.

When serving, consider garnishing with fresh herbs such as basil or parsley to add a burst of freshness and color. These herbs not only enhance the dish's presentation but also introduce a complementary flavor profile that brightens the overall taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This recipe is excellent for meal prep, as it can be easily made in larger batches and stored for later use. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to two months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to help restore its creamy consistency.

If you plan to freeze, I recommend keeping the Greek yogurt separate until you're about to eat. This will help maintain the creaminess and prevent separation during the freezing process. You can mix it into the thawed pasta just before serving for the best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular pasta instead of whole wheat?

Yes, you can use regular pasta, but keep in mind that whole wheat adds more fiber and nutrients.

→ How can I make this dish dairy-free?

You can substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt or omit it entirely for a lighter sauce.

→ What other veggies can I add?

Feel free to add broccoli, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for more variety and nutrition.

→ Can I meal prep this recipe?

Absolutely! This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it great for meal prep.