Craving a hearty, nutritious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor? This High Protein Penne Pasta with Chicken is a perfect choice for a satisfying dinner or post-workout fuel. Packed with lean, tender pieces of seasoned chicken breast and high-protein penne pasta, this recipe delivers a big boost of protein while staying light and fresh. Vibrant cherry tomatoes, nutrient-rich baby spinach, and a zesty splash of lemon combine to create a medley of flavors that are elevated by a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and aromatic Italian herbs. Ready in just 40 minutes, this quick and easy recipe offers a balanced, wholesome dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight. Serve up this protein-packed pasta to nourish your body and delight your taste buds!
Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil over high heat.
Add the high-protein penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces, season with salt and pepper, and add them to the skillet.
Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes until golden and cooked through, stirring occasionally.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, making sure it doesn't burn.
Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
Stir in the baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
Return the chicken to the skillet, add the dried Italian herbs, and stir to combine.
Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the chicken and vegetables.
Pour the juice of one lemon over the mixture and toss everything together to combine.
Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serve immediately, garnished with more Parmesan if desired.
Calories |
2110 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 63.1 g | 81% | |
| Saturated Fat | 19.1 g | 96% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 390 mg | 130% | |
| Sodium | 3646 mg | 159% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 172.2 g | 63% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 26.9 g | 96% | |
| Total Sugars | 11.8 g | ||
| Protein | 213.0 g | 426% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.5 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 852 mg | 66% | |
| Iron | 18.7 mg | 104% | |
| Potassium | 2111 mg | 45% | |
*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.