High Protein Pasta With Chicken

Name: High Protein Pasta With Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz whole grain pasta; 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Quick Cooking Moments

I love a good pasta dish, especially when it’s packed with protein! This High Protein Pasta With Chicken gives me the energy I need without compromising on flavor. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and fresh vegetables makes for a hearty meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. I also appreciate how quick it is to prepare – within just 30 minutes, I can have a nourishing dinner on the table that satisfies my cravings and keeps me feeling full.

Created by

Helena Wright

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:37:36.686Z

Cooking High Protein Pasta With Chicken has become a staple in my kitchen. I was looking for a quick meal that didn’t skimp on nutrition, and I was thrilled to discover that combining whole grain pasta with lean chicken breast packs in both protein and flavor. The secret lies in the spices and a dash of lemon juice to elevate the entire dish!

During meal prep, I often toss in whatever vegetables I have on hand, like spinach or bell peppers, to boost the nutrients even more. Each bite is satisfying and unexpected, allowing me to enjoy healthy eating without feeling deprived.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
High protein content keeps you full and satisfied
Versatile and can easily incorporate seasonal vegetables
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners

The Role of Whole Grain Pasta

Using whole grain pasta is a smart choice for boosting the nutritional profile of this dish. Unlike regular pasta, whole grain options retain the bran and germ, providing more fiber and protein. This not only helps keep you full but also enhances the overall texture. When cooked to al dente, whole grain pasta will have a delightful chewiness that balances beautifully with the tender chicken and crisp vegetables in this dish.

For the best results, make sure to check the cooking time on the package, as it can vary by brand. A quick tip: save about a half-cup of the pasta water before draining. It can be added later to loosen the sauce and help the ingredients cling better to the pasta.

Sautéing Techniques for Flavorful Vegetables

Sautéing the garlic and vegetables at medium heat is crucial for developing rich flavors without burning them. Keep an eye on the garlic; it should become fragrant and slightly golden, which usually takes about a minute. If you notice that it’s browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly to prevent a bitter taste that could spoil the dish.

Adding the broccoli and bell pepper next not only enhances color and nutrition but also adds a satisfying crunch. If you prefer a softer texture, you can blanch the broccoli in the boiling pasta water for 2 minutes before adding it to the skillet. This keeps the green color vibrant and ensures it cooks evenly.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

If you have leftovers, this High Protein Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave the pasta in 30-second intervals, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent dryness. Alternatively, place it in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of pasta water to revive the sauce's consistency.

For a fresh twist, consider serving this dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice just before enjoying. You can also try adding a variety of seasonal vegetables to keep the dish exciting, such as zucchini or spinach, making it even more adaptable to your preferences.

Ingredients

Ingredients for High Protein Pasta With Chicken

8 oz whole grain pasta
2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the whole grain pasta. Cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, then drain and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables and Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic, broccoli, and bell pepper, and sauté for 5 minutes until vegetables are tender. Stir in the diced chicken, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, toss everything together, and drizzle with lemon juice. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.

Serve

Plate the pasta, garnish with Parmesan cheese, and enjoy your healthy, protein-rich meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. Grilling the chicken beforehand adds extra flavor, too!

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe is highly adaptable based on what you have on hand. If you don’t have cooked chicken, cooked shrimp or canned chickpeas are excellent protein alternatives, creating a different flavor profile without much effort. For those looking to go meat-free, sautéed tofu can also provide a great texture and absorb the dish's flavors beautifully.

If whole grain pasta isn't available, you could use other options like chickpea pasta for extra protein or gluten-free pasta for a dietary swap. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

Flavor Boosting Tips

To elevate the flavors of this dish, consider adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic and before adding the vegetables. This will deglaze the pan and infuse the dish with a richer, more complex flavor. Let it reduce for a minute to concentrate the wine's essence before adding the rest of the ingredients.

Another excellent way to enhance taste is by finishing the dish with a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil right before serving. This not only adds a wonderful depth of flavor, but the oil will also help meld everything together, making each bite cohesive.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled up or down depending on your needs. If you’re feeding a larger group, simply double the ingredients while maintaining the same cooking times. However, ensure that your skillet is large enough to accommodate everything, as overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.

For smaller portions, consider halving the ingredients, and remember that cooking times for the vegetables may decrease slightly. Adjust seasonings to your taste as you scale down; since each ingredient’s flavor will be concentrated in smaller quantities, you might need less salt or seasoning overall.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Substitute with your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a delicious vegetarian option that still provides plenty of protein.

→ What can I substitute for olive oil?

You can use avocado oil or even a light butter if you prefer a different flavor.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.