We’ve all had those nights standing in the kitchen, staring at the fridge like it’s about to sing. This high protein pesto pasta with chicken was born out of one of those stand-offs. Now? It’s popping everywhere for a reason. Cozy, creamy, packed with bite and it actually keeps you full. A total win on Pinterest and weeknight chaos alike.
Rotisserie-style chicken, bright herby pesto, and twisty pasta this one’s picky-eater approved and feels just the tiniest bit fancy. It leans into pantry staples, but eats like something you’d grab at a corner bistro. One of those easy to make low calorie meals that doesn’t taste like a compromise. Full details in the blog!
I grew up with pesto anything being a “fancy dinner” alert. But we’ve simplified the fancy. I’ve made this version a dozen times (maybe more?) between dance pickups and laundry collapses. High flavor, low fuss. I tested it. You’ll love the secret!
Why You’ll Love This High Protein Pesto Pasta with Chicken
Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Protein-Packed: With 43g of protein per serving, it’s satisfying and keeps you full for hours.
Customizable: Make it gluten-free or plant-based with simple ingredient swaps, ensuring everyone at the table is happy.
Family-Friendly: A cozy, creamy pasta that even picky eaters will dig into with zero complaints.
Key Ingredients and Simple Swap Ideas
This recipe uses pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and how to adjust to your needs:
Protein Pasta: Frilly shapes like Campanelle or Loppdy Loops work best. Swap for gluten-free pasta if needed.
Marinated Chicken: Lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and salt infuse the chicken with bright flavor. You could use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for even less fuss.
Pesto: Use your favorite high-protein pesto. Plant-based pesto is a great alternative for dairy-free diets.
Bone Broth: Adds extra protein and a silky texture to the sauce. Vegetable broth works if keeping it lighter.
Egg & Parmesan: These ingredients create a creamy, carbonara-like touch to the dish. Plant-based Parmesan works beautifully too.
Original Ingredient
Swap Option
Frilly Protein Pasta
Gluten-Free Pasta
Bone Broth
Vegetable Broth
Parmesan Cheese
Plant-Based Parmesan
Pesto
Dairy-Free or Nut-Free Pesto
How to Make It: Step-by-Step
Marinate the Chicken: Combine chicken breasts with lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and salt. Let it sit for 15–20 minutes while you prep other ingredients.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Rest and slice into bite-sized pieces.
Boil the Pasta: Cook your protein pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Make the Sauce: Lower the heat to medium. Whisk together the bone broth, egg, and Parmesan in a bowl. Add the pesto to the drained pasta, then slowly mix in the egg mixture while stirring. Use reserved pasta water to thin if necessary.
Combine: Toss the sauce-coated pasta with your sliced chicken. Serve warm, topped with extra Parmesan or fresh basil if desired.
Step
Timing
Pro Tip
Chicken Marinade
15 mins
Let the chicken sit while you prep everything else to save time.
Cook Chicken
10 mins
Use a meat thermometer to check internal temp (165°F).
Boil Pasta
8–10 mins
Salt your pasta water for flavor depth.
Make Sauce
5 mins
Keep stirring as you add the egg mixture to prevent clumps.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This recipe stores beautifully for leftovers, making it one of my go-to meal prep ideas.
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth for moisture.
Freezer: Freeze portions in separate bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Pro Tip: Keep pasta and chicken separate if storing to avoid soggy pasta.
Storage Method
Duration
Reheating Tips
Fridge
4 days
Add broth or water to prevent dryness.
Freezer
2 months
Thaw overnight and stir gently as it reheats.
Troubleshooting & Variations
Too Thick Sauce: Add reserved pasta water, one spoonful at a time, to loosen it up.
Dry Chicken: Make sure not to overcook. Resting ensures juicy slices.
Keeps Separating: Stir sauce continuously over low heat to prevent curdling.
Whether you’re seeking chicken recipe low calorie inspiration or a practical addition to your list of high protein low cal dinner recipes, this dish proves that simple meals can feel indulgent!
Expert Insight: The Nutritional Edge of High Protein Pesto Pasta with Chicken
Incorporating lean chicken and nutrient-dense pesto creates a balanced meal rich in protein and healthy fats. High protein pesto pasta with chicken not only supports muscle repair but also provides sustained energy, making it an ideal choice for active lifestyles seeking both flavor and function.
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Perfecting the High Protein Pesto Pasta with Chicken
This high protein pesto pasta with chicken took several kitchen experimentslike forgetting to salt the pasta water and ending up with bland noodlesbefore it truly clicked. After lots of tweaks and careful seasoning, I finally landed on a version that’s packed with flavor and protein, perfect for a quick, satisfying family dinner.
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.
Final Thoughts on This High Protein Pesto Pasta with Chicken
High protein pesto pasta with chicken comes together in under 30 minutes, packing serious flavor and comfort without the fuss. You’ll love how creamy, satisfying, and perfectly balanced this dish feels after a busy day in the kitchen.
Want to switch it up? Try swapping the chicken for shrimp or sneaking in some spinach for extra greens. Store leftovers separately to keep that sauce silkylittle tricks I learned from kitchen pros. It’s flexible, family-friendly, and made for real-life cooking chaos.
Made this recipe your own? Snap a pic, share your twists, or tell me: What’s your go-to easy supper idea low calorie or high protein? Pass it around and cozy upthe family table’s waiting, and you’ll wanna make it again soon!
This high protein pesto pasta with chicken is easy to make low calorie meals perfect for clean bulk recipes. This chicken recipe low calorie offers a fresh, healthy twist and is ideal for high protein low cal dinner recipes any day of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
Marinate chicken breasts with lemon juice olive oil salt and minced garlic cloves for at least 10 minutes.
Cook the chicken breasts in a skillet over medium heat until cooked through and slightly browned about 8-10 minutes per side.
Cook the protein pasta according to package instructions then drain.
In a bowl whisk together bone broth egg parmesan cheese and high protein pesto to make a creamy sauce.
Combine cooked pasta chicken and sauce stirring well to coat evenly.
Serve warm garnished with extra parmesan if desired.
Notes
Use gluten free pasta and plant based parmesan or pesto to accommodate dietary preferences
Perfect for meal prep and storing for up to 3 days
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
