If you are craving a comforting meal that packs a nutritious punch, the High Protein Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe is your new best friend. This dish marries tender, seasoned chicken with hearty whole wheat pasta and rich, cheesy marinara, delivering loads of flavor and satisfying protein in every bite. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a classic Italian favorite with a healthy twist that fuels your body and delights your taste buds.

High Protein Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keeping the ingredient list simple yet purposeful is key to this recipe’s success. Each item brings something essential to the plate, whether it’s flavor, texture, or a boost in nutrition, making this dish both wholesome and delicious.

2 cups cooked whole wheat or protein-enriched pasta: Adds a nutty flavor with extra fiber and protein to support sustained energy.

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast: The star protein that creates a hearty, satisfying base for the dish.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps cook the chicken perfectly while adding a subtle fruity richness.

½ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the chicken with savory depth and aromatic warmth.
½ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall taste with gentle sweetness and complexity.

½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings the classic herbs that tie the entire flavor profile together beautifully.
Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and elevates every element on the palate.
2 cups marinara sauce (low-sugar preferred): Adds tangy tomato goodness that keeps the dish light but flavorful.

½ cup part-skim shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, inviting pockets of cheesy delight.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkles on sharp, nutty notes that finish the pasta just right.
Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish: Brightens the dish with fresh herbal accents and a pop of color.

How to Make High Protein Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the bite-sized chicken pieces and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook everything until the chicken turns golden brown on the outside and is cooked through inside, locking in its juicy tenderness.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Next, pour the marinara sauce into the chicken skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. This allows the chicken to soak up all those rich tomato flavors. Stir in the pre-cooked whole wheat pasta until the noodles are fully coated with the sauce.

Step 3: Add Cheese

Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the pasta and chicken mixture. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt slowly, creating a luscious, cheesy blanket that ties the dish together perfectly.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Once the cheese has melted, garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley to add a fresh, vibrant touch. Your High Protein Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe is now ready to enjoy—rich in flavor, texture, and protein to fuel your day.

How to Serve High Protein Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley is a simple step that brightens the dish visually and lifts the flavors with an herbal freshness. A light sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top can also enhance the cheesy goodness with every forkful.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, balancing the richness with some refreshing crunch. Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus also complement the meal with added nutrients and texture.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the pasta in individual mini cast iron skillets or rustic bowls for a cozy, restaurant-style feel at home. You can also layer the pasta in a baking dish and broil briefly to brown the cheese on top, adding a crispy, golden finish that everyone loves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover High Protein Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This makes it convenient for quick lunches or dinners without sacrificing any of the flavors or textures.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to cool it completely before freezing to preserve the quality and avoid ice crystals forming on the pasta.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or extra sauce to keep it moist. Stir occasionally to evenly warm the chicken and melt the cheese again, bringing back that fresh-cooked taste you loved.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While whole wheat or protein-enriched pasta adds extra nutrition, you can use regular pasta, gluten-free varieties, or even vegetable noodles if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, simply swap the mozzarella and Parmesan for your favorite dairy-free cheese alternatives. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor boost if you want to keep it natural.

Can I meal prep this recipe for the week?

Definitely. This High Protein Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe is perfect for meal prep since it stores well and reheats beautifully, making healthy eating convenient even on busy days.

How can I increase the protein even more?

Consider adding cooked beans, lentils, or extra chicken or turkey to the dish. You can also stir in some cottage cheese or Greek yogurt off the heat for an added protein boost with creamy texture.

What can I use instead of chicken breasts?

If you want variety, turkey breast or lean pork tenderloin cut into bite-sized pieces work just as well and provide similar protein content. For a vegetarian option, try grilled tofu or tempeh seasoned and prepared similarly.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate—it’s wholesome, full of flavor, and satisfying any time of day. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or loved ones, this recipe is simple to make yet impressive in taste, making it a staple you’ll happily return to. Give it a try; your taste buds and your body will thank you!

High Protein Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 19 reviews

Author: lina
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

This High Protein Chicken Parmesan Pasta recipe combines tender bite-sized chicken breast pieces with protein-enriched whole wheat pasta, all simmered in a flavorful marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s a delicious and nutritious meal perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner, offering a balanced mix of protein and wholesome ingredients.

Instructions

Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, then sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and thoroughly cooked, about 6-8 minutes.
Combine Ingredients: Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the cooked chicken. Stir and allow the sauce to simmer gently over low heat for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Add Pasta: Add the cooked whole wheat or protein-enriched pasta into the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit on low heat for about 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted completely.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish the dish with freshly chopped basil or parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your protein-packed chicken Parmesan pasta.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a bit of olive oil and Italian seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking.
Use low-sugar marinara sauce to keep the dish healthier and lower in carbs.
You can substitute part-skim mozzarella with a vegan cheese alternative to make this dish vegetarian-friendly.

Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Sautéing and Simmering

Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 380 kcal

Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 560 mg
Fat: 8 g

Saturated Fat: 3 g
Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
Trans Fat: 0 g

Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fiber: 6 g
Protein: 37 g

Cholesterol: 75 mg

Keywords: chicken parmesan pasta, high protein pasta recipes, healthy chicken dinner, whole wheat pasta recipe, low sugar marinara, easy chicken pasta