One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta (High-Protein)

Here’s a high-protein, one-pot cheesy chicken pasta that’s creamy, filling, and macro-friendly 💪🍝

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🧀 One Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta (High-Protein)

🔥 Why It’s High Protein

• Lean chicken breast

• High-protein pasta (lentil, chickpea, or protein-enriched wheat)

• Cottage cheese + Greek yogurt boost

• Reduced-fat cheese for extra protein without excess fat

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🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 2 large chicken breasts (about 500g), diced

• 2 tsp olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp paprika

• Salt & black pepper to taste

• 2 cups high-protein pasta (dry)

• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or skim milk)

• 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese

• ¾ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt

• 1 cup reduced-fat shredded mozzarella

• ¼ cup grated parmesan

• 1 cup spinach (optional but great for nutrients)

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook Chicken
   Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook 5–7 minutes until browned.

2. Add Garlic
   Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Cook Pasta (One Pot Method)
   Add dry pasta, chicken broth, and milk.
   Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
   Cover and cook 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and liquid mostly absorbed.

4. Make It Creamy & Cheesy
   Lower heat. Stir in cottage cheese and Greek yogurt until smooth.
   Add mozzarella and parmesan. Stir until melted and creamy.

5. Finish
   Fold in spinach and let wilt for 1–2 minutes.
   Taste and adjust seasoning.

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📊 Approximate Macros (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~450

• Protein: 45–50g

• Carbs: 35–40g

• Fat: 12–14g

(Will vary depending on pasta type and cheese brand.)

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💡 Extra Protein Boost Ideas

• Add ½ scoop unflavored whey protein to the sauce (mix with a little milk first).

• Use protein pasta like lentil or chickpea.

• Swap mozzarella for part-skim high-protein cheese.