Pasta with chicken and sauce

Pasta with chicken and sauce

Dinner

Item Rating: 74/100

1 serving (300 grams) contains 400 calories, 25.0 grams of protein, 10.0 grams of fat, and 50.0 grams of carbohydrates.

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315.0
calories
19.7
protein
39.4
carbohydrates
7.9
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (236.2g)
Calories
315.0
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 7.9 g 10%
Saturated Fat 2.4 g 12%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 39.4 mg 13%
Sodium 472.4 mg 20%
Total Carbohydrates 39.4 g 14%
Dietary Fiber 2.4 g 8%
Sugars 3.9 g
protein 19.7 g 39%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 39.4 mg 3%
Iron 1.6 mg 8%
Potassium 236.2 mg 5%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🍯 Low sugar

Source of Calories

51.3%
25.6%
23.1%
Fat: 71 cal (23.1%)
Protein: 78 cal (25.6%)
Carbs: 157 cal (51.3%)

About Pasta with chicken and sauce

Pasta with chicken and sauce is a versatile and hearty dish rooted in Italian cuisine, though it has been adapted across various global kitchens. Typically consisting of durum wheat pasta, lean chicken, and tomato-based or creamy sauces, this meal offers a balanced profile of macronutrients. A standard serving provides a good source of carbohydrates from pasta for energy, high-quality protein from chicken to support muscle maintenance, and essential vitamins like vitamin A or C depending on the sauce type. The inclusion of herbs and seasonings often adds additional antioxidants, enhancing its nutritional value.

Health Benefits

  • Provides lean protein from chicken, which supports muscle repair and immune function.
  • Supplies complex carbohydrates from pasta, offering sustained energy release.
  • If a tomato-based sauce is used, it adds lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that supports heart health.
  • Cream-based sauces can provide calcium, which is essential for bone health.
  • Herbs like basil or oregano in the sauce contribute to anti-inflammatory benefits through their polyphenol content.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains gluten (from pasta), dairy (if using cream-based sauce)
Suitable for: High-protein diets, non-vegetarian diets
Not suitable for: Gluten-free diets, vegan diets, low-carb diets if consumed in large portions

Selection and Storage

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours and consume within 3 days. Reheat thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

Common Questions About Pasta with chicken and sauce Nutrition

What is the nutritional content of pasta with chicken and sauce?

A typical serving of pasta with chicken and sauce (1 cup, about 200g) contains approximately 300-450 calories, 20-30g of protein (depending on the amount of chicken), 10-15g of fat, and 35-45g of carbohydrates. It may also provide small amounts of vitamins like B12 and minerals such as iron and zinc from the chicken.

Can I eat pasta with chicken and sauce on a keto diet?

Traditional pasta with chicken and sauce is not keto-friendly due to its high carbohydrate content, typically 35-45g per serving. However, you can make a keto-friendly version by substituting regular pasta with low-carb alternatives like zucchini noodles, shirataki noodles, or spaghetti squash.

What are the health benefits and concerns of eating pasta with chicken and sauce?

Pasta with chicken and sauce provides protein for muscle repair and essential nutrients like B vitamins and zinc, especially from the chicken. However, traditional pasta is high in refined carbs, which can lead to blood sugar spikes if consumed in large amounts. Opting for whole-grain pasta or adding vegetables can boost its nutritional value.

What is the recommended serving size of pasta with chicken and sauce?

A standard serving size of pasta with chicken and sauce is about 1 cup (200-250g). For a balanced meal, consider adding a side of vegetables or salad to increase fiber and nutrient intake while keeping the portion size in check to avoid overloading on calories and carbohydrates.

How does pasta with chicken and sauce compare to other similar dishes?

Compared to pasta alone, adding chicken significantly increases the protein content, making it more filling and suitable for recovery meals. When compared to vegetarian pasta dishes, it contains less fiber unless paired with vegetables. Using whole-grain pasta can make this dish more nutritious than one made with refined pasta.

Data Sources & Scientific References

Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.

Additional Authoritative Sources:

Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.