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: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 8 oz whole grain pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Healthy Meals Collection

I love making this High Protein Chicken Pasta after a long day because it comes together quickly and packs a serious punch of flavor and nutrition. The tender chicken breast mixed with al dente pasta and a zesty sauce always leaves me feeling satisfied. Plus, it’s an excellent way to fuel my workout recovery, thanks to the protein-rich ingredients. This meal has become a staple in my kitchen, perfect for any busy weeknight or when I want to impress friends with something delicious yet healthy.

Created by

Natalie Evans

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:23:34.757Z

When I first experimented with this dish, I was looking for something that would be both quick and nutritious. I found that pairing high-protein chicken with whole-grain pasta not only boosts the nutrient density but also keeps me full for longer. Working with fresh ingredients ensures that the flavors marry beautifully, highlighting the chicken’s deliciousness.

One detail I've learned is to let the chicken rest after cooking before slicing it. This keeps it juicy and tender. The zesty sauce ties everything together, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a lovely finish that elevates this simple dish to something extraordinary. I can’t get enough of it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with protein to fuel your day
Quick and easy to make for busy nights
Deliciously savory with a hint of zest

Elevating Your Chicken and Pasta Game

When preparing this High Protein Chicken Pasta, choosing the right pasta is crucial. Whole grain pasta not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds a delightful nutty flavor that complements the dish. Cook the pasta until al dente for the best texture; it should have a slight firmness when bitten into. This ensures that it won't become mushy when combined with the sauce, keeping that satisfying chew in every mouthful.

Additionally, the seasoning of the chicken is key to infusing flavor into the dish. A simple mix of salt and pepper works well, but consider adding paprika or Italian herbs for an extra kick. The browning process in the skillet creates a gorgeous crust that locks in juices, giving the chicken a robust flavor. Make sure to let the chicken rest after cooking; if you slice it too soon, the juices may escape, resulting in dry meat.

Mastering the Sauce

The sauce in this recipe strikes the perfect balance between acidity and rich flavor. The combination of garlic, tomatoes, and lemon juice creates a bright, zesty profile that elevates the entire dish. As you sauté the garlic, ensure it doesn’t burn; this can happen quickly. Aim for just a minute of cooking before adding the tomatoes to avoid a bitter taste. Stirring often will help achieve a glossy sauce without letting the garlic overcook.

Using cherry tomatoes not only adds sweetness but also a burst of juiciness that complements the pasta beautifully. Allow them to soften and release their juices before adding the broth. This step is crucial; the longer you cook the tomatoes, the more concentrated and flavorful the sauce will become. If you're short on time, canned diced tomatoes can be a suitable substitute, just adjust the cooking time to account for their softer texture.

Serving and Storing Tips

Serving this dish immediately is best to fully enjoy its flavors and textures. Garnish with fresh basil to add an aromatic touch that makes a difference. For an added crunch, consider sprinkling some toasted pine nuts or grated Parmesan on top. Pair this dish with a side salad for a complete meal, or serve it with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to the skillet to revive the sauce’s consistency, as pasta tends to absorb liquid over time. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish, but I recommend keeping the chicken and pasta separate if possible to maintain the best texture. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for optimal flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a balanced and hearty meal:

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 oz whole grain pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious pasta dish:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the whole grain pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from heat and let rest before slicing.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute before adding cherry tomatoes. Cook for another 5 minutes until tomatoes soften. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring to combine.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken into the skillet. Toss well to coat everything with the sauce. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of Parmesan cheese when serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this dish vegetarian or need a meat alternative, using tofu or chickpeas in place of chicken is a great option. For tofu, press it to remove excess moisture and cube it before sautéing until golden. This will give you a savory protein addition without altering the balance of the dish. Similarly, canned chickpeas can be added directly after sautéing the garlic, providing a hearty source of protein.

For those avoiding gluten, this recipe can easily be adapted with gluten-free pasta, such as brown rice or quinoa pasta. Just remember to check the cooking time, as gluten-free pasta can vary significantly in how long it takes to cook. Keep in mind that sauce consistency may slightly change, so be prepared to adjust liquid levels as needed.

Scaling the Recipe

This High Protein Chicken Pasta can be easily scaled up for larger gatherings. For every additional pound of chicken, increase the volume of pasta by about half to maintain a balanced ratio. Additionally, when cooking in bulk, you might need to use a larger skillet or cooking pot to accommodate all the ingredients adequately.

When multiplying the recipe, adjusting seasoning is essential. Start with smaller increments of salt and pepper, and taste as you go. This helps to avoid overpowering the dish with seasoning, which can happen when cooking for several people. Also, be sure to gradually increase the cooking time, particularly for the sauce, to ensure that the added ingredients blend well together without overcooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to substitute with gluten-free pasta or any pasta of your choice.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based option.

→ Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to three days.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A simple side salad or steamed vegetables would complement this pasta beautifully.