High Protein Penne Pasta with Chicken

Elevate your weeknight meal game with this hearty and flavor-packed High Protein Penne Pasta with Chicken! Perfectly al dente high-protein penne pasta forms the foundation of this nutritious dish, complemented by tender, golden-browned chicken breast bites. Fresh garlic, juicy cherry tomatoes, and vibrant baby spinach add bursts of flavor and color, while a sprinkle of Italian herbs and a zesty squeeze of lemon bring a bright, refreshing finish. Topped with savory Parmesan cheese, this pasta dish is as satisfying as it is wholesome, offering a protein-rich option that’s ideal for fitness enthusiasts or anyone craving a balanced, delicious dinner. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s a quick, family-friendly recipe that’s perfect for meal prep or an easy, indulgent treat after a busy day.

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 250 grams High-protein penne pasta
• 400 grams Boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced
• 200 grams Cherry tomatoes, halved
• 150 grams Baby spinach
• 50 grams Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Dried Italian herbs
• 1 Lemon, juiced

Directions

Step 1

Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil over high heat.

Step 2

Add the high-protein penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.

Step 3

While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 4

Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces, season with salt and pepper, and add them to the skillet.

Step 5

Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes until golden and cooked through, stirring occasionally.

Step 6

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 7

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

Step 8

Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, making sure it doesn't burn.

Step 9

Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.

Step 10

Stir in the baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.

Step 11

Return the chicken to the skillet, add the dried Italian herbs, and stir to combine.

Step 12

Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the chicken and vegetables.

Step 13

Pour the juice of one lemon over the mixture and toss everything together to combine.

Step 14

Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 15

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 16

Serve immediately, garnished with more Parmesan if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1145.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2110.2

Total Fat 63.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 19.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 390mg	0%
Sodium 3646.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 172.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 26.9g	0%
Total Sugars 11.8g
Protein 213.0g	0%

Vitamin D 20IU	0%
Calcium 851.6mg	0%
Iron 18.7mg	0%
Potassium 2110.8mg	0%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 26.9%

Protein: 40.4%

Carbs: 32.7%