High-Protein Healthy Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta
This high-protein creamy chicken pesto pasta is a healthier twist on a comfort classic. Made with lean chicken breast, protein-rich pasta, and a light creamy pesto sauce, it’s satisfying without being heavy. Perfect for quick dinners, meal prep, and anyone looking for a Mediterranean-style, non-spicy meal.
⏱️ Time
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
🧺 Ingredients
Pasta & Chicken
200 g high-protein pasta (chickpea, lentil, or whole-wheat)
2 medium chicken breasts, sliced
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika (mild)
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Creamy Pesto Sauce
⅓ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
½ cup Greek yogurt (or light cream)
¼ cup pasta cooking water (as needed)
1 tbsp grated parmesan cheese (optional)
1 tsp lemon juice
Optional Add-ins
Cherry tomatoes
Spinach or broccoli
Extra parmesan for topping
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta
1. Bring salted water to a boil.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
3. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain.
2️⃣ Cook the Chicken
1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Season chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through.
4. Remove from pan and set aside.
3️⃣ Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce
1. Lower heat and add pesto and Greek yogurt to the same pan.
2. Stir gently until smooth.
3. Add reserved pasta water little by little to loosen the sauce.
4. Stir in lemon juice and parmesan (if using).
4️⃣ Combine
1. Add cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce.
2. Toss until everything is well coated.
3. Add veggies if using and warm for 1–2 minutes.
4. Serve hot with extra parmesan.
💡 Tips & Variations
Extra protein: Add grilled shrimp or extra chicken.
Meal prep: Keeps well in the fridge for 3 days.
Lighter version: Use low-fat Greek yogurt.
Dairy-free: Use plant yogurt or blended cashews.
Creamier texture: Blend pesto + yogurt before adding.
🥗 Nutritional Information
Calories: 480–520 kcal
Protein: 40–45 g
Carbohydrates: 45–50 g
Fats: 14–16 g
Fiber: 6–8 g
Sugar: 4–6 g