High Protein Pesto Pasta with Chicken: Easy and Delicious

Name: HIGH PROTEIN PESTO PASTA WITH CHICKEN
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 8oz box of frilly protein pasta like Loppdy Loops or Campanelle use gluten free as needed; ½ cup bone broth; 1 egg; ½ cup parmesan cheese shredded use plant based as needed; 1 8oz jar high protein pesto use plant based as needed; 1.5 pounds chicken breasts or 3 chicken breasts; 2 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 garlic cloves

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There’s something magical about the sound of garlic sizzling in a warm pan while basil fills the kitchen with summer memories. This high protein pesto pasta with chicken is more than just a trend it’s hearty, satisfying, and ready in under 30 minutes.

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Imagine your favorite creamy pasta, now enhanced with tender chicken and vibrant pesto clinging to every al dente bite. Simple ingredients like high-protein pasta, fresh basil, and juicy chicken breast come together to create one of those easy to make low calorie meals that feels indulgent without the guilt.

I’ve refined this recipe over the years while cooking for my daughters always aiming for that ideal mix of comfort and nutrition. After dozens of trials, I’ve found that timing is everything and that perfect balance shines through in the final dish.

Why This Recipe Will Win Your Heart

This high protein pesto pasta with chicken brings back memories of cozy Sundays and family meals around our oak table. The inviting scent of garlic and basil would fill the air, gently pulling everyone to the kitchen.

What sets this recipe apart is how it turns humble, wholesome ingredients into something that feels luxurious. With over 50 grams of protein per serving, it’s one of those high protein low calorie meals recipes that nourishes without weighing you down.

Quick and easy from stovetop to table in 30 minutes
Each bite is packed with herbaceous, creamy goodness and juicy chicken
The bone broth and egg work together to create a rich, cream-free sauce
Ideal for meal prep it holds up beautifully during the week

Your Essential Ingredients and Tools

This recipe is all about balance each ingredient and tool plays a thoughtful role in creating that perfect forkful.

Fresh ingredients for making high protein pesto pasta with chicken displayed on a kitchen counter

Choose a frilly pasta shape like Loppdy Loops or Campanelle so the pesto sauce clings better. Opting for a high-protein pasta keeps this dish in the category of easy to make low calorie meals while boosting nutrition.

Ingredient	Purpose	Why It Matters
Protein Pasta	Base & Texture	Supplies an extra 20g of protein per serving
Bone Broth	Sauce Base	Gives sauce a velvety texture without dairy
Fresh Egg	Binding Agent	Helps the sauce coat pasta evenly
Lemon Juice	Marinade Acid	Tenderizes chicken and brightens the dish

Essential Tools

Large pot for boiling pasta
Heavy-bottomed skillet for searing chicken evenly
Sharp knife for efficient slicing
Medium mixing bowl for the marinade

How the Magic Happens

Perfecting this chicken recipe low calorie relies on simple prep and multitasking. First, marinade the chicken even a short 15-minute soak boosts flavor and tenderness significantly.

While the pasta cooks, sear the chicken until it’s golden, then fold everything together in a warm pan with pesto, broth, and egg. The result is a sauce that’s rich, creamy, and clings gently to every curl of pasta.

Step	Time	Key Action
Marinate Chicken	10 minutes	Mix with lemon juice, oil, garlic, and salt
Cook Pasta	8–10 minutes	Boil until just al dente; reserve 1 cup pasta water
Sear Chicken	6–8 minutes	Cook until golden and internal temp reaches 165°F
Combine & Toss	2–3 minutes	Mix with pesto mixture until evenly coated

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to save some pasta water its starch helps the sauce bind perfectly!

Troubleshooting Your Pasta Perfection

Even seasoned cooks occasionally face small mishaps in the kitchen. If your sauce seems off or textures aren’t quite right, a few easy fixes can save the dish.

Sauce looks curdled: Lower heat quickly and stir in a splash of pasta water to smooth it out
Chicken is tough: Try pounding it to an even thickness before cooking next time
Pasta feels dry: Add reserved pasta water gradually while tossing with sauce
Flavors taste muted: Brighten the dish with a little more lemon juice and a pinch of salt

Make It Your Own

This dish easily adapts to dietary preferences. Whether you’re eating gluten-free, plant-based, or simply want to add more veggies, it’s incredibly versatile.

Original	Swap Option	Notes
Regular Pesto	Plant-Based Pesto	Dairy-free and just as flavorful
Parmesan Cheese	Nutritional Yeast	Use 3 tbsp for a similar savory profile
Chicken Breast	Chicken Thighs	Juicier, may need a few extra minutes of cooking
Bone Broth	Vegetable Broth	Lighter but still full of flavor

This is an excellent option if you’re following clean bulk recipes combining lean protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats into one balanced meal.

Serving and Storage Wisdom

This pasta is best enjoyed fresh off the stove, topped with a generous sprinkle of parmesan and a touch of cracked black pepper. But it also makes a fantastic meal prep recipe that improves as it rests.

Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to four days in the fridge, or freeze for future convenience. The flavor deepens overnight, and it reheats well with a touch of broth to revive the creamy texture.

Storage Method	Duration	Reheating Tips
Refrigerator	Up to 4 days	Reheat with a splash of broth on the stove
Freezer	Up to 2 months	Thaw overnight, then reheat gently
Meal Prep Portions	Up to 4 days	Store sauce separately if possible

Best reheating method: Gentle stovetop warming with a bit of bone broth
Serving suggestion: Garnish with fresh herbs, pair with salad and crusty bread
Leftover magic: Enjoy as a chilled pasta salad the next day

Expert Says: The Power of Protein in Pesto Pasta

Adding chicken to pesto pasta transforms it into a high protein pesto pasta with chicken that’s both delicious and well-balanced. Protein supports muscle health, boosts fullness, and makes this dish ideal for anyone seeking a nutritious, satisfying meal.

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Perfecting High Protein Pesto Pasta with Chicken

This high protein pesto pasta with chicken didn’t become a favorite overnight. Earlier versions had too much garlic or soggy noodles, but with time and patience, I found the perfect ratio of fresh herbs, juicy chicken, and just-right pasta. Now, it’s a staple in our home comforting and packed with nutrition.

FAQs ( high protein pesto pasta with chicken )

How many protein grams are in a serving of high protein pesto pasta with chicken?

A typical serving of high protein pesto pasta with chicken contains around 35 to 40 grams of protein. This makes it an excellent option for anyone looking for high protein low cal dinner recipes or clean bulk recipes. The chicken provides lean protein while the pasta contributes to the overall energy without adding too many calories.

Can this recipe be made into a low carb meal?

Yes, you can easily make this dish low carb by swapping traditional pasta for alternatives like zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles. This tweak keeps it aligned with healthy meals for picky eaters adults low carb while still delivering on flavor and protein. It also fits well as a chicken recipe low calorie option for supper ideas low calorie enthusiasts.

What type of pesto is best for this dish?

Traditional basil pesto is the go-to sauce for this recipe because it adds a fresh, herby flavor that complements the chicken perfectly. If you want to keep the meal easy to make low calorie meals, choose a pesto with minimal oil or make your own using fresh herbs, garlic, lemon, and a bit of olive oil for a clean, fresh taste.

How can I make this recipe ahead for lunch or dinner?

You can prepare the chicken and pesto in advance and cook the pasta just before serving to keep it fresh. Store components separately in airtight containers to maintain flavor and texture. This makes it a great addition to your high protein low calorie meals recipes rotation for quick meal prep without compromising taste or nutrition.

Is this dish suitable for clean bulk diet plans?

Absolutely! High protein pesto pasta with chicken fits perfectly into clean bulk recipes since it is rich in protein and includes healthy fats from the pesto. It supports muscle growth while keeping calories in check when portioned correctly. This dish balances nutrition and flavor, making it ideal for anyone focused on lean muscle gain.

Delicious plated serving of high protein pesto pasta with chicken garnished with parmesan and herbs

A Recipe Worth Treasuring

This high protein pesto pasta with chicken turned out to be everything I’d hoped for quick, nutritious, and deeply comforting. In just 30 minutes, you get a meal full of flavor and nourishment, with silky pesto sauce enriched by bone broth instead of cream.

Need a shortcut? Use leftover rotisserie chicken or toss in a handful of cherry tomatoes for a burst of color. This dish also keeps well in the fridge for up to four days, making it one of the best easy to make low calorie meals to prep ahead. A friend once suggested finishing it with fresh baby spinach, and it adds just the right pop of green with minimal effort.

I’d love to see how it looks in your kitchen do share a photo or tell me about your favorite ways to serve it. There’s something truly special about sharing food that comforts and nourishes us all at once.