Introduction

This High Protein Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with lean chicken, whole wheat pasta, and melty cheese, it offers a balanced combination of flavors and nutrients. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

A white oval dish filled with a baked pasta dish topped with melted golden brown cheese that looks bubbly and slightly crispy in places. The cheese layer is uneven, with some darker browned spots, sprinkled with fresh green parsley that adds a bright touch on top. The pasta underneath is creamy and visible through some cracks in the cheese layer showing a rich tomato and meat sauce mixed with the pasta. The dish sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups cooked whole wheat or protein-enriched pasta

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 tablespoon olive oil

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups marinara sauce (low-sugar preferred)

½ cup part-skim shredded mozzarella cheese

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it is golden brown and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes.

Step 3: Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the chicken, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer for 3 to 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add the cooked whole wheat pasta to the skillet and stir well to combine everything evenly.

Step 5: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet and cook on low until the cheese melts, about 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 6: Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley before serving to add a fresh, vibrant flavor.

Tips & Variations

For extra protein, add a handful of cooked white beans or chickpeas when combining the pasta and sauce.

Use fresh garlic minced instead of garlic powder for a stronger flavor.

Substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina cheese for a different cheesy twist.

If you prefer a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use regular pasta instead of whole wheat?

Yes, regular pasta works just fine, though whole wheat or protein-enriched pasta adds extra fiber and protein for a healthier dish.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the chicken with cooked mushrooms, tofu, or a plant-based meat substitute, and follow the same cooking steps for a vegetarian-friendly version.