High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowls (Print Version)
High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowls are a quick, satisfying meal. Enjoy creamy pasta packed with flavor and protein for a healthy weeknight dinner.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Italian-American
# Ingredients:
→ The Protein Powerhouse
01 -
1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
→ Garlic Parmesan Dream Sauce
02 -
2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
03 -
8 cloves Garlic, minced
04 -
1/2 cup Low-Sodium Chicken Broth
05 -
1 cup 2% Milk
06 -
3/4 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese, plus more for serving
07 -
1 tsp Italian Seasoning Blend
08 -
1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
→ Hearty Bowl Foundation
09 -
12 oz High-Protein Pasta (e.g., chickpea or lentil penne)
10 -
5 oz Fresh Baby Spinach
→ Finishing Touches
11 -
1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped, for garnish
12 -
Salt and freshly ground Black Pepper, to taste
# Instructions:
01 -
Cut 1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts into 1-inch pieces. Season with Salt and freshly ground Black Pepper. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the 12 oz High-Protein Pasta. This ensures everything is ready for your High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowls.
02 -
Heat 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
03 -
Add 12 oz High-Protein Pasta to the boiling water. Cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
04 -
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add 8 cloves minced Garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in 1/2 cup Low-Sodium Chicken Broth, 1 cup 2% Milk, 1 tsp Italian Seasoning Blend, and 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional).
05 -
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in 3/4 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese until melted and smooth. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. For delicious High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowls, ensure the sauce is creamy.
06 -
Stir in 5 oz Fresh Baby Spinach until wilted. Add the cooked 12 oz High-Protein Pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat everything evenly. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency for your High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowls.
07 -
Season the High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowls with Salt and freshly ground Black Pepper to taste. Garnish with 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped, and extra Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese before serving immediately.
# Notes:
01 -
For an even richer sauce, swap 1/4 cup of the 2% Milk for light cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream. Don't overcook the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed.
03 -
Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Other vegetables like broccoli florets or mushrooms can also be added with the spinach.
04 -
Serve these hearty pasta bowls with a simple side salad or some crusty whole-grain bread to complete your meal.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet or Dutch oven
03 -
Cutting board
04 -
Chef's knife
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
06 -
Grater
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 670 kcal
Total Fat: 15 g
Total Carbohydrate: 58 g
Protein: 88 g