PROTEIN PASTA BOWL PERFECTION

Craving a satisfying, flavor-packed meal that won’t derail your health goals? Are you tired of boring salads and bland chicken breasts? Get ready to revolutionize your lunch and dinner routine with a simple yet incredibly delicious solution: the Creamy Protein Pasta Bowl – Quick & Easy! This isn’t your average pasta dish; we’re talking creamy, dreamy goodness loaded with protein to keep you feeling full and energized. Let’s make a bowl that’s both good for you and tastes amazing!

Gathering Your Dream Team Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this fantastic protein-packed pasta bowl. Don’t worry, substitutions are totally welcome – make it your own!

For the Pasta:

• 8 ounces Pasta: (Your choice! I love using protein pasta for an extra boost). Penne, rotini, shells, or even gluten-free options work great.
• Water: For cooking the pasta.
• Salt: To season the pasta water.

For the Protein:

• 1 pound Chicken Breast: (Cooked and diced or shredded). You can also use grilled chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even leftover chicken. Tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option also work!
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil: For cooking the chicken (if you’re starting from raw).
• Salt & Pepper: To taste, for seasoning the chicken.

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 1/2 cup Plain Greek Yogurt: This is our secret weapon for a creamy sauce that’s packed with protein and lower in fat than traditional cream sauces.
• 1/4 cup Milk: (Any kind works – dairy or non-dairy). To thin out the sauce to your desired consistency.
• 2 tablespoons Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, cheesy flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice: Brightens up the sauce and adds a zing.
• 1 clove Garlic: (Minced). For that garlicky goodness.
• 1/2 teaspoon Dried Italian Herbs: Adds depth and complexity.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste, for seasoning the sauce.

For the Veggies (Optional, but highly recommended!):

• 1 cup Broccoli Florets: Steamed or roasted.
• 1/2 cup Cherry Tomatoes: Halved.
• 1/4 cup Spinach: Roughly chopped.

Step-by-Step to Pasta Bowl Bliss

Alright, let’s get cooking! This recipe is so easy, you’ll be making it on repeat.

Prepping the Protein & Pasta:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Don’t overcook it!
2. Cook the Chicken (if necessary): If you’re starting with raw chicken, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper and cook until cooked through and no longer pink inside (about 6-8 minutes per side). Let it cool slightly, then dice or shred. If you’re using pre-cooked chicken, skip this step!
3. Prepare Veggies (Optional): Steam or roast your broccoli florets. Halve your cherry tomatoes and chop your spinach.

Crafting the Creamy Dream Sauce:

1. Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, milk, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, minced garlic, and Italian herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk until it reaches your desired consistency. It should be creamy and easily coat the pasta.

Assembling Your Masterpiece:

1. Combine Everything: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cooked chicken, creamy sauce, and your chosen veggies (if using).
2. Toss Gently: Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the sauce.
3. Serve Immediately: Enjoy your Creamy Protein Pasta Bowl! Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, if desired.

The Secret to a Next-Level Sauce

The Greek yogurt is the key here! It gives us that creamy texture without all the extra fat and calories. But it’s important to use *plain* Greek yogurt, not flavored, or your pasta bowl will have a weirdly sweet tang. Also, don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of milk to get the perfect sauce consistency. Some Greek yogurts are thicker than others, so you might need a little more or a little less milk.

Protein Powerhouse Swaps

Want to switch things up? This recipe is super versatile! Instead of chicken, try using shrimp, grilled tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. You can also experiment with different types of pasta, like whole wheat pasta or lentil pasta, for an extra boost of fiber and protein.

Thinking of other dishes you can make to complement this Protein Pasta Bowl? You should try our BUFFALO CHICKEN PASTA!

Veggie Variations Galore

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your veggies! Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, asparagus, or even a handful of kale would all be delicious additions. Get inspired by what’s in season at your local farmers market. Roasting the veggies brings out their natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor.

Make-Ahead Magic and Meal Prep Mastery

This Creamy Protein Pasta Bowl is perfect for meal prepping! You can cook the pasta, chicken, and veggies ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply combine everything in a bowl with the creamy sauce and enjoy. The sauce can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For meal prep, portion the assembled pasta bowl into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners.

Ever crave something sweet to eat after dinner? Our HONEY PEPPER MAC is a perfect addition to any dinner.

Sauce Customization Station: Flavors That POP!

Want to add a little extra oomph to your sauce? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Cheesy Indulgence: Stir in some shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy flavor.
• Sun-Dried Tomato Twist: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for a tangy and savory flavor.
• Pesto Power: Swirl in a spoonful of pesto for a vibrant and herby flavor.

Pasta Perfection Tips

Cooking pasta seems simple, but a few tricks can make all the difference:

• Salt the water generously. This seasons the pasta from the inside out.
• Don’t overcook the pasta! Aim for al dente, which means “to the tooth” in Italian. It should be slightly firm, not mushy.
• Reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy water can be added to the sauce to help it cling to the pasta.

Are you looking for another pasta recipe? Our CREAMY ROTEL PASTA is a family favorite.

Dealing with Dietary Restrictions

This recipe is easily adaptable to various dietary needs:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
• Dairy-Free: Use non-dairy milk and a dairy-free Parmesan cheese alternative. You can also omit the Parmesan cheese altogether.
• Vegetarian: Use tofu, chickpeas, or lentils as your protein source.
• Vegan: In addition to the vegetarian swaps, ensure your Parmesan cheese alternative is vegan.

The Importance of Protein

Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting a healthy immune system, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied. This pasta bowl is packed with protein from the chicken and Greek yogurt, making it a great option for a post-workout meal or a quick and easy lunch that will keep you energized throughout the afternoon.

Our Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta is another great option when you need a boost of protein!

Serving Suggestions and Side Dish Pairings

This Creamy Protein Pasta Bowl is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up all that creamy sauce.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Roasted Vegetables: Such as asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini.

Want to try another delicious pasta dish? Try our Creamy Broccoli Chicken Penne!

There you have it – a Creamy Protein Pasta Bowl that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor! I hope you love it as much as I do. Now go whip up a bowl and enjoy the deliciousness! Don’t forget to share your creations with me – I can’t wait to see what you come up with!

Creamy Protein Pasta Bowl Perfection

Amelia Chen-Morrison

This Creamy Protein Pasta Bowl is a quick, easy, and satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor and protein. It features your choice of pasta, lean protein like chicken or tofu, and a luscious Greek yogurt-based sauce, making it a healthy and delicious option for lunch or dinner.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Skillet
• Medium bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Ingredients

  

• 8 ounces protein pasta penne, rotini, or shells
• Water, for cooking pasta
• Salt, for pasta water
• 1 pound chicken breast, cooked and diced or shredded or tofu/chickpeas
• 1 tablespoon olive oil if cooking chicken
• Salt and pepper, to taste for chicken
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup milk dairy or non-dairy
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• Salt and pepper, to taste for sauce
• 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed or roasted
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup spinach, roughly chopped

Instructions

 

• Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
• Cook the Chicken (if necessary): If using raw chicken, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper and cook until cooked through and no longer pink inside (about 6-8 minutes per side). Let it cool slightly, then dice or shred. If using pre-cooked chicken, skip this step.
• Prepare Veggies (Optional): Steam or roast broccoli florets. Halve cherry tomatoes and chop spinach.
• Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, milk, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, minced garlic, and Italian herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk until it reaches your desired consistency. For a richer sauce, add a tablespoon of the reserved pasta water.
• Combine Everything: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cooked chicken, creamy sauce, and your chosen veggies (if using).
• Toss Gently: Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the sauce.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy your Creamy Protein Pasta Bowl! Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, if desired.

Notes

For best results, use plain, non-fat Greek yogurt for a creamy texture without the extra calories. Adjust the amount of milk in the sauce to achieve your preferred consistency. This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. Feel free to substitute any vegetables you prefer, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus. To prevent the sauce from becoming too thick upon reheating, add a splash of milk or water before microwaving.