High Protein Creamy Chicken Pasta
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this High Protein Creamy Chicken Pasta, a wholesome meal loaded with flavor and nutrients. Featuring tender, seasoned chicken breast, whole wheat penne pasta, and a rich, velvety sauce made from heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of chicken broth, this dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nourishment. Fresh spinach adds a burst of color and vitamins, while garlic, onions, and Italian seasoning infuse the dish with irresistible aromatics. Ready in just 40 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you need a quick, satisfying dinner that doesn’t compromise on protein or taste. Garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a dash of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice, this creamy chicken pasta is a comforting and high-protein crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 250 grams whole wheat penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium, diced onion
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 cup, grated Parmesan cheese
- 100 grams, fresh spinach
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons, chopped parsley
Instructions
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the whole wheat penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the outside is golden brown. Remove from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for about 2 minutes or until translucent.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring occasionally until it melts into the sauce.
Incorporate the fresh spinach into the sauce, letting it wilt for about 2 minutes.
Return the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat the pasta and chicken in the creamy sauce.
Add red pepper flakes and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper according to taste.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2849 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 141.1 g | 181% | |
| Saturated Fat | 65.0 g | 325% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 580 mg | 193% | |
| Sodium | 3210 mg | 140% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 204.4 g | 74% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 23.0 g | 82% | |
| Total Sugars | 17.6 g | ||
| Protein | 163.4 g | 327% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 725 mg | 56% | |
| Iron | 14.7 mg | 82% | |
| Potassium | 2909 mg | 62% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
