Description
This High-Protein Chicken Pasta Recipe is a simple, filling dinner made with lean chicken, pasta, vegetables, and a creamy Greek yogurt sauce. It’s ready in about 30 minutes and works well for busy weeknights or easy meal prep.
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) high-protein pasta or whole wheat pasta
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup sliced bell pepper
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Creamy Protein Sauce
- 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Before draining, save 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Add the vegetables: Add the garlic, broccoli, bell pepper, and tomatoes. Cook for another 4–5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp.
- Make the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, Parmesan, lemon juice, and garlic powder. Slowly add the warm pasta water while whisking until smooth.
- Combine everything: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and vegetables. Turn the heat to low and pour in the yogurt sauce.
- Stir gently: Toss everything together until the pasta is coated. Avoid high heat so the yogurt sauce stays smooth.
- Serve: Divide between four plates and sprinkle with extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of water or milk.
Recipe Tips
- Use high-protein pasta if you want to increase the protein in the meal.
- Cut the chicken into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
- Save some pasta water to help make the sauce smooth and creamy.
- Add spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or peas for more vegetables.
- For extra flavor, add red pepper flakes or fresh parsley.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Stovetop