1 serving (250 grams) contains 450 calories, 30.0 grams of protein, 20.0 grams of fat, and 45.0 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
424.5 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 18.9 g | 24% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.7 g | 23% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 56.6 mg | 18% | |
| Sodium | 566.0 mg | 24% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 42.5 g | 15% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.8 g | 10% | |
| Sugars | 1.9 g | ||
| protein | 28.3 g | 56% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 47.2 mg | 3% | |
| Iron | 1.9 mg | 10% | |
| Potassium | 283.0 mg | 6% | |
* 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
Source of Calories
About Pasta with pesto and chicken
Pasta with pesto and chicken is a classic Italian-inspired dish that combines al dente pasta, grilled or roasted chicken, and a rich, herbaceous pesto sauce made from fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. This meal is well-rounded, offering carbohydrates from the pasta, protein from the chicken, and healthy fats from the pesto. A typical serving provides an energy-dense meal with an average of 400-600 calories, depending on portion sizes and ingredients used. It is a good source of protein (from chicken) and vitamin K, vitamin E, and monounsaturated fats from the pesto, making it a flavorful and nutritious option for lunch or dinner.
Health Benefits
- Rich in lean protein from chicken, supporting muscle growth and repair (approximately 25-30g of protein per serving).
- Provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats from olive oil and pine nuts in the pesto, which can help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) levels.
- Contains antioxidants like vitamin K (from basil) and vitamin E (from olive oil), which support overall immune health and skin health.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve texture and avoid overheating the pesto.
Common Questions About Pasta with pesto and chicken Nutrition
Is pasta with pesto and chicken high in protein?
Yes, pasta with pesto and chicken is typically high in protein due to the chicken component. A single serving (around 1 cup) can contain approximately 25-30 grams of protein, depending on the quantity of chicken used and its preparation.
Can I eat pasta with pesto and chicken on a keto diet?
Traditional pasta with pesto and chicken is not suitable for a keto diet because pasta is high in carbohydrates, with a single serving containing around 35-40 grams of carbs. However, replacing the pasta with a low-carb alternative like zucchini noodles could make it more keto-friendly.
Are there any health benefits to eating pasta with pesto and chicken?
Yes, this dish provides several health benefits. Chicken is rich in lean protein, which supports muscle growth and repair, while pesto made with olive oil, basil, and pine nuts offers heart-healthy fats and antioxidants. However, watch portions to avoid excessive calories and sodium from certain store-bought pesto sauces.
What is the recommended serving size for pasta with pesto and chicken?
A recommended serving size is approximately 1 cup, which typically contains 350-450 calories, depending on the ratio of ingredients used. This portion helps balance key macronutrients without exceeding daily calorie recommendations for most adults.
How does pasta with pesto and chicken compare to pasta with marinara sauce?
Pasta with pesto and chicken is higher in protein and fat than pasta with marinara sauce due to the chicken and oil-based pesto. Marinara-based pasta tends to be lower in fat and calories but may lack the protein content offered by chicken in the pesto variation. Choose based on your dietary goals.
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.
