Description
Master quick meal prep with these High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowls! Tender chicken, al dente penne, and rich garlic-Parmesan make a satisfying, hearty dish.
Ingredients
- Penne pasta: 8 ounces
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast: 1 pound
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Low-sodium chicken broth: 1/2 cup
- Fresh baby spinach: 2 cups
- Salt and black pepper: To taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. While the pasta cooks, cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and season liberally with salt and black pepper.
- Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to deglaze and release any browned bits. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Step 4: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and forms a light, creamy sauce. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet along with the cooked chicken and fresh baby spinach.
- Step 5: Toss all the ingredients together until the spinach wilts and everything is evenly coated in the garlic Parmesan sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired.
- Step 6: Divide the pasta into individual meal prep containers. Allow to cool completely before covering and refrigerating for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave before serving.
Notes
- Ensure your High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowls cool completely before sealing them in airtight containers for refrigeration; they'll stay fresh and tasty for up to 3-4 days.
- When reheating in the microwave, a small splash of extra low-sodium chicken broth or water will help keep your pasta wonderfully moist and saucy.
- For an extra layer of freshness and crunch, consider garnishing your finished bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a side of crisp greens.
- Boost the depth of flavor by thoroughly deglazing the pan with chicken broth after the garlic is fragrant, ensuring you scrape up all those delicious browned bits from the chicken.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 450g)
- Calories: 780
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 3g