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Why make this recipe

High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowls are a delicious and healthy meal option. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick yet nutritious dish. With 384 calories and 36 grams of protein, it’s great for those who lead an active lifestyle or want to maintain a balanced diet. Plus, combining pasta with grilled chicken and a creamy garlic sauce makes for a filling and satisfying meal.

How to make High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowls

Ingredients

120 g cooked penne or rigatoni
120 g grilled chicken breast, sliced
1 tsp olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
30 g light cream cheese
15 g grated parmesan
30 ml unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or spinach (optional)

Directions

Cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
Add the cream cheese and almond milk to the pan, stirring until smooth. Mix in the grated parmesan and season with salt and pepper.
Stir in the cooked pasta and toss until it is well coated in the sauce.
Top the pasta with sliced grilled chicken and optional greens, such as spinach or parsley.
Divide into meal prep containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

How to serve High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowls

Serve these pasta bowls warm as a main dish or packed for lunch. The creamy garlic sauce, combined with the grilled chicken, creates a delightful flavor that makes every bite enjoyable. You can also pair it with a side salad for a complete meal.

How to store High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowls

Store any leftovers in airtight meal prep containers in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of almond milk to keep the sauce creamy.

Tips to make High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowls

Ensure that you cook the pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
Feel free to add extra veggies like spinach or broccoli for even more nutrition.
If you want a richer flavor, consider using a sharper parmesan cheese.

Variation

You can swap the grilled chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. You can also try different pasta shapes like fusilli or farfalle for a fun twist.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat pasta instead?
Yes, whole wheat pasta is a great option to increase fiber content.

Is there a dairy-free version?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cream cheese and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a plant-based version.

Can I freeze these pasta bowls?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them. Just make sure to store the sauce and pasta separately to maintain texture.