Description
This High-Protein Pasta Dinner Recipe is a simple, filling meal made with protein-rich pasta, chicken, vegetables, and a creamy tomato sauce. It’s easy to make in about 30 minutes and works well for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz (340 g) high-protein pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup sliced bell pepper
- 1/2 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Creamy Tomato Sauce
- 1 1/2 cups tomato pasta sauce
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook the protein pasta according to the package directions. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cooked through.
- Add the vegetables: Add the onion, bell pepper, broccoli, and garlic. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the tomato sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce and add the Italian seasoning. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Make it creamy: Reduce the heat to low. Stir the Greek yogurt, Parmesan, and garlic powder into the sauce. Add the reserved pasta water and stir until smooth.
- Add the pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until everything is well coated.
- Serve: Divide into four bowls and top with extra Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce.
Recipe Tips
- Choose a protein pasta you enjoy for the best texture and flavor.
- Add spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or peas for extra vegetables.
- Keep the heat low when adding Greek yogurt to help prevent the sauce from separating.
- Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Use leftover cooked chicken to make this dinner even faster.
- Make extra portions for easy lunches during the week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch, Meal Prep
- Method: Stovetop