High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowls (384 Cal + 36g Protein)

Ever craved a pasta dish that’s not just about filling your tummy, but also pumps up your protein?

Let’s talk about High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowls. This scrumptious delight is not only creamy and dreamy but also comes packed with a whopping 36g of protein per serving! Plus, it’s oh-so-quick to whip up. Trust me, you’ll want to make this one-pan wonder for your next meal!

Why Make This Recipe

Why fuss over a fussy dinner when you can have easy cleanup and a delicious dish in under 30 minutes? Seriously, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you need a comforting meal without the hassle.

And hey! We can’t forget about the family factor—kids and adults alike will devour this. Who can resist pasta drenched in a creamy garlic sauce and topped with juicy grilled chicken? No one, that’s who! 😂

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

• 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

1. Cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
3. Add cream cheese and almond milk, stirring until smooth. Mix in parmesan and season with salt and pepper.
4. Stir in the pasta and toss until coated in the sauce.
5. Top with grilled chicken and optional greens like spinach or parsley.
6. Divide into meal prep containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

How to Make High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowls (Overview)

So, making these bowls is as simple as a quick waltz in the kitchen. Start by cooking your pasta to the perfect “al dente” texture, because no one likes mushy pasta, am I right? While that’s bubbling away, sauté garlic in olive oil until it smells divine.

Once it’s fragrant, blend in the cream cheese and milk to whip up that luscious sauce. Nutty parmesan makes a magical appearance next. Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic — it makes all the difference! Toss in your pasta, mix in the grilled chicken, and voilà! You’ve got a healthy, high-protein meal that beats takeout any day.

How to Serve High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowls

Serve these pasta bowls with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or spinach on top for that vibrant pop of color. The creamy sauce will cling to the noodles while the grilled chicken adds the perfect bite. The aroma? It’s like a warm hug to your senses! Pair it with a crisp green salad for crunch, and you’ll find yourself in pasta paradise.

How to Store High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowls

Planning ahead? These bowls hold up beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just make sure to store them in airtight containers to keep everything fresh. Reheating is a breeze too; just pop it in the microwave for a quick 1-2 minutes, and you’re back in business!

Tips to Make High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowls

• Timing is key! Don’t overcook the pasta; you want that perfect bite.
• If you need to, swap the cream cheese for Greek yogurt for an even lighter version.
• Want extra flavor? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick!

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Try adding sautéed veggies for a nutritional boost or swap in shrimp for a seafood twist. You could even replace the chicken with chickpeas if you’re leaning into plant-based. The sky’s the limit!

FAQs

Can I make this vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the cream cheese with a vegan version and replace the chicken with your choice of veggies or tofu.

How many servings does this recipe make?
Typically, this recipe serves about 4, but feel free to adjust the quantities according to your needs!

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Just make sure to store them in freezer-safe containers. It keeps for about 2-3 months—though honestly, they’ll probably disappear long before then!

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!