High Protein Chicken Pasta Bowl

Name: High Protein Chicken Pasta Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g whole wheat pasta; 300g chicken breast, diced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 zucchini, sliced; 100g spinach; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Inspiration

I love a good pasta dish that boasts not only flavor but also nutritional value, and this High Protein Chicken Pasta Bowl does just that! I often find myself looking for meals that are quick to prepare while providing the energy I need for my busy days. This dish combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and vibrant veggies, all coated in a light yet fulfilling sauce. It's the perfect balance of protein and carbohydrates, making it an ideal choice for lunch or dinner any day of the week.

Created by

Linnea Porter

Last updated on 2026-02-10T20:21:36.476Z

This High Protein Chicken Pasta Bowl was born out of my quest to create wholesome meals that are also delicious. I decided to use whole wheat pasta for an added nutritional boost, and paired it with grilled chicken for lean protein. The burst of colors from the vegetables not only enhances the visual appeal but also boosts the nutrients.

What I found particularly delightful was the blend of herbs in the sauce, which really brought the flavors to life. My tip? Let the sauce simmer for an extra five minutes to meld the flavors even more. It's a simple step that elevates the entire dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
High-quality protein source from chicken
Vibrant and colorful vegetables enhance taste and nutrition
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

Perfecting the Pasta

When preparing the whole wheat pasta, it’s essential to slightly undercook it if you're planning to mix it with the sauce later. Aim for al dente, which means the pasta will be firm to the bite. This technique helps the pasta absorb flavors from the sauce without becoming mushy. Additionally, reserving a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining can be a game-changer—it can help you adjust the sauce's consistency when combining everything in the skillet.

Consider incorporating different types of whole grains for variety. Spelt or quinoa pasta can be great alternatives if you're looking to switch things up while maintaining their nutritional robustness. Both options include a good amount of protein and fiber, contributing to the overall healthiness of your High Protein Chicken Pasta Bowl.

Choosing Your Vegetables

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility with vegetables. While bell peppers and zucchini create a lovely color contrast, you can easily swap them for seasonal alternatives like asparagus or cherry tomatoes. If you opt for tomatoes, add them towards the end of cooking to prevent them from becoming too mushy. Sautéing the garlic with the vegetables releases a fragrant aroma, crucial for building the dish's flavor profile—don’t skip this step.

Spinach also plays a vital role in this recipe. Not only does it brighten up the dish visually with its vibrant green color, but it’s also packed with iron and vitamins. If you’re looking to add even more nutrition, consider throwing in some kale or arugula instead. These leafy greens add a punch of flavor and can elevate the overall taste of the bowl.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

200g whole wheat pasta
300g chicken breast, diced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 zucchini, sliced
100g spinach
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Make sure to measure out everything for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your High Protein Chicken Pasta Bowl:

Boil the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes for al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken breast, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.

Sauté the Vegetables

Add minced garlic, bell pepper, zucchini, and spinach to the skillet with the chicken. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning over everything and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to combine and heat through. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your meal fresh and hot!

Pro Tips

For extra protein, consider adding chickpeas or cooked lentils to the dish. You can also customize the vegetables according to your preferences or what you have on hand.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers after a hearty meal, you’re in luck! This High Protein Chicken Pasta Bowl stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the flavor and texture, reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from becoming dry. Microwaving is another option, but be sure to cover the dish to maintain moisture.

For long-term storage, consider freezing the individual components if you know you won’t consume them shortly. The cooked chicken and vegetables freeze well when placed in proper containers and can be thawed overnight in the refrigerator for meal prep convenience.

Making It Your Own

One of the joys of cooking is personalization, and this pasta bowl is no exception. Experiment with different proteins such as shrimp or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist. If you want extra creaminess, stir in a scoop of Greek yogurt or a dollop of pesto right before serving. This not only enhances flavor but also adds a thicker, luxurious texture that complements the dish beautifully.

Herbs can kick the flavors up a notch as well. Fresh basil or parsley sprinkled on top just before serving adds brightness and freshness. You can also incorporate a squeeze of lemon juice to elevate the dish, balancing the rich flavors with a touch of acidity that makes everything pop.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular pasta instead of whole wheat?

Yes, regular pasta can be used, but whole wheat is a healthier option as it's higher in fiber.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This pasta bowl keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

You can use tofu, shrimp, or any protein of your choice as a substitute.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.