Description
This High Protein Chicken Pasta recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a creamy, comforting pasta dish without sacrificing your nutritional goals. It’s packed with protein and easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and spices. This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or bow ties recommended)
- 1 yellow onion (finely diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté Aromatics: Sauté diced onion in a pan until softened and translucent.
- Add Garlic: Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Cook Chicken: Add chicken pieces to the pan and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Cook Pasta: While chicken cooks, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add cooked pasta to the pan with the chicken.
- Add Pasta Water: Add a little pasta water to create a creamy sauce, if needed.
- Serve: Serve immediately.
Notes
- Substitutions: Use chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or try turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Vegetables: Add spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying.
Nutrition
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