High Protein Chicken Pasta

Name: High Protein Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced; 2 cups fresh spinach; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Healthy Meals Favorites

I absolutely love creating meals that are both delicious and nutritious, and this High Protein Chicken Pasta fits the bill perfectly. Packed with a hearty dose of protein, this dish keeps me feeling satisfied and energized. The combination of tender chicken breast and al dente pasta, blended with a savory sauce, really hits the spot. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, and I promise it won't take long to whip up. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that will surely become a favorite in your home!

Created by

Serena Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-02-01T19:57:36.240Z

When I first tried this High Protein Chicken Pasta, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. I usually spend hours cooking, but this recipe proved that a healthy meal doesn’t have to take time. I sautéed the chicken with garlic and olive oil to bring out all the incredible flavors. The addition of spinach not only added nutrition but also brightened up the dish.

What surprised me was how well everything combined! I tossed the pasta with a bit of the cooking water and a sprinkle of Parmesan, and it created a creamy texture without the need for heavy cream. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the joy of a wholesome meal!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Packed with protein to keep you full and satisfied
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
A colorful, nutritious twist on classic pasta dishes

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the chicken breast, which is not only a great source of protein but also absorbs flavors beautifully. When choosing chicken, opt for fresh, high-quality meat for better texture and taste. Dicing the chicken into uniform pieces ensures even cooking. If you're in a pinch, feel free to use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken, but remember to adjust the cooking time.

Pasta plays a crucial role in this recipe, providing carbohydrates that perfectly complement the protein. Penne is a fantastic choice because its tubular shape captures the savory sauce and wilted spinach, adding depth to each bite. You can substitute penne with other pasta shapes like fusilli or whole-grain options, but be sure to adjust cooking times according to package instructions.

Cooking Techniques to Master

Sautéing the chicken at medium heat allows it to brown while keeping the inside juicy. Aim for a golden crust on the outside; it typically takes about 5-7 minutes. Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can lead to steaming rather than browning. If your pan is too crowded, cook in batches for the best results.

When adding garlic, watch closely for a golden hue, which releases essential oils for a fragrant backdrop. Incorporating the spinach just until it’s wilted helps retain its bright green color and nutrients. Overcooking it can lead to a soggy texture, so aim for about 1-2 minutes of cooking time once added to the skillet.

Serving and Storing Your Pasta

This High Protein Chicken Pasta can be served immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of black pepper for added flavor. It goes wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread, making it a versatile dish. For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes during the sautéing process or a dash of hot sauce in the final serving.

For meal prep, this dish stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, use a microwave or skillet with a splash of water to prevent drying out. If you prefer freezing, be aware that the pasta may become slightly softer when thawed, but it's still delicious. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to two months.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
2 cups fresh spinach
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Sauté Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Garlic and Spinach

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.

Combine and Serve

Mix the cooked pasta into the skillet with the chicken and spinach. Add reserved pasta water and grated Parmesan, tossing well to combine. Serve warm.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or red pepper flakes before serving. You can also swap the chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different protein option!

Customizing Your Dish

Feel free to personalize this recipe according to your dietary preferences. For a gluten-free option, swap out traditional pasta for chickpea or lentil-based pasta, which will also enhance the protein content. If you're looking to reduce carbs, zucchini noodles can make an excellent, low-calorie alternative without sacrificing taste.

Vegetables can also be varied according to season or personal taste. Bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms are fantastic additions. Sauté them alongside the chicken for an extra layer of flavor. Just ensure any vegetables added have similar cooking times to those listed; this keeps everything cooking evenly.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find your pasta is sticking together, it might be due to not having enough water in the pot or undercooking it slightly. Always ensure the pasta is well-covered in rapidly boiling water and stir occasionally. Reserve the pasta water as a clever trick to help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much when combining.

A common issue when working with chicken is dryness. To avoid this, consider brining your chicken in a solution of water and salt for about 20-30 minutes before cooking. This simple step can enhance moisture retention and flavor, ensuring each bite remains juicy and tender throughout the meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole-wheat pasta instead?

Absolutely! Whole-wheat pasta will add more fiber and a nutty flavor to the dish.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

You can substitute the penne pasta with gluten-free pasta, and the rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchinis, or broccoli to boost the nutrition and flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.