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- 8 oz whole wheat or high-protein pasta - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup marinara sauce - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Fresh basil leaves The main ingredients for Chicken Parmesan Protein Pasta are both tasty and healthy. Whole wheat or high-protein pasta gives you the energy you need. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts add lean protein to keep you full. Marinara sauce brings rich flavor and moisture to the dish. Shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese melt beautifully, adding creaminess and depth. The seasonings are simple yet effective. Garlic powder adds a nice kick. Italian seasoning enhances the overall taste, making it feel authentic. Olive oil is essential for cooking the chicken, giving it a lovely, golden brown color. For a pop of freshness, consider adding fresh basil leaves as a garnish. They not only look nice but also enhance the flavor of the dish. With these ingredients, you set the stage for a delicious and nutritious meal. {{ingredient_image_2}} - Preparing the Water and Boiling: Start by filling a large pot with water. Add a good amount of salt to the water. Bring the water to a boil. This step helps flavor the pasta. - Checking for Al Dente Texture: Add the whole wheat or high-protein pasta to the boiling water. Cook as the package says, usually around 8-10 minutes. Taste a piece to check if it’s al dente. It should be firm but not hard. Once done, drain the pasta and keep it warm. - Seasoning the Chicken Breasts: While the pasta cooks, dry the chicken breasts with a paper towel. Sprinkle garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper on both sides. - Ensuring Even Distribution of Spices: Rub the spices in well to cover every part of the chicken. This step makes sure every bite is tasty. - Heating Olive Oil Properly: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Wait for the oil to shimmer before adding chicken. - Cooking Time and Internal Temperature: Place the chicken in the hot oil. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F inside. - Heating Marinara Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Pour in the marinara sauce. Stir gently to warm it and mix in the chicken flavor. - Tossing with Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything carefully so that the pasta gets coated in the sauce. - Layering Ingredients in Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a baking dish, spread half of the pasta and sauce mix on the bottom. - Ensuring Even Distribution: Layer half of the sliced chicken on top, followed by half of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers with the rest of the pasta, chicken, and cheeses. - Setting Oven Temperature: Place the baking dish in the oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes. Look for melted and bubbly cheese on top. - Resting Before Serving: Once baked, take the dish out and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the layers set. Before serving, add fresh basil leaves on top for color and flavor. - Ensuring Moisture Retention To keep your chicken juicy, dry it well before seasoning. This helps the spices stick better. Sear the chicken in hot oil for a nice crust. Cook it until it reaches 165°F. Let it rest before slicing. This step keeps the juices inside. - Flavor Enhancements Season both sides of the chicken. Use garlic powder and Italian seasoning for a tasty kick. You can add a pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor. This simple step makes a big difference in taste. - Avoiding Overcooking Boil the pasta in salted water. Follow the package instructions carefully. Check for that perfect al dente texture. This means it should be firm to the bite. Overcooked pasta can get mushy and lose its appeal. - Maintaining Pasta Texture Once cooked, drain the pasta but do not rinse it. Rinsing washes away the starch that helps sauce cling to it. Toss it with a bit of olive oil to keep it from sticking together. - Best Practices for Storing Leftovers Store any leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh for a few days. Label the container with the date to track freshness. Always let the dish cool down before sealing it. - Reheating without Losing Flavor To reheat, use the oven for best results. Preheat to 350°F and cover the dish with foil. This keeps it moist. You can also microwave it, but add a splash of water to avoid dryness. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality marinara sauce can elevate the flavor of your dish significantly. Consider making your own marinara for a personal touch. Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Ensure your chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and optimal tenderness. Letting it rest before slicing helps retain juices. Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or fontina for a unique flavor profile. Adding a mix of cheeses can also enhance the melty texture. Serving Suggestions: Pair your Chicken Parmesan Protein Pasta with a crisp side salad or garlic bread for a well-rounded meal that complements the flavors of the dish. {{image_4}} You can switch up the pasta for this dish. Here are some ideas: - Gluten-Free Options: Use gluten-free pasta made from rice or quinoa. They hold up well and taste great. - Different Protein Pasta Varieties: Try chickpea or lentil pasta. They add protein and fiber, making the dish even healthier. You can make this dish lighter by swapping some ingredients: - Low-Fat Cheese Alternatives: Use part-skim mozzarella or low-fat Parmesan. These cheeses melt well but cut calories. - Homemade Marinara Sauce Recipe: Make your own sauce with canned tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. It's easy and fresh. Boost the nutrition by adding veggies to your pasta. Here are some great options: - Suggestions for Veggie Add-ins: Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers work well. They add color and flavor. - Flavorful Combinations: Try mixing in mushrooms and garlic for a savory twist. These add depth to your meal. - Best Container Types: Use airtight glass or plastic containers. Glass keeps the food fresh longer. - Duration for Best Quality: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. After that, the taste may change. - Proper Freezing Techniques: Allow the pasta to cool before freezing. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Squeeze out excess air to avoid freezer burn. - Thawing Recommendations: Thaw in the fridge overnight. If short on time, use the microwave on the defrost setting. - Best Methods for Retaining Quality: Reheat gently to keep the sauce and cheese from drying out. - Suggested Oven and Microwave Techniques: - Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for 15-20 minutes. - Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Protein pasta is a type of pasta made with higher protein content than regular pasta. It often uses ingredients like lentils, chickpeas, or pea protein. This makes it great for those seeking more protein in their diet. The added protein helps you feel full and energetic. Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts. Thighs have more fat, which makes them juicy and flavorful. Just be sure to cook them until they reach 165°F for safety. They will add a rich taste to your dish. Yes, you can make Chicken Parmesan Protein Pasta ahead of time. Cook the pasta and chicken, then layer them with sauce and cheese. Cover it and store it in the fridge. When ready to eat, just bake it until hot and bubbly. This dish pairs well with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables. You can also serve garlic bread or a light soup. These sides balance the meal and add more nutrients. Yes, you can make this recipe vegan. Use plant-based pasta and substitute chicken with tofu or a meat alternative. For cheese, try vegan mozzarella and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. This way, you can enjoy the dish with a plant-based twist! You now have a clear guide to making Chicken Parmesan Protein Pasta. We covered key ingredients, detailed steps, and essential tips. With these insights, you can cook a tasty, healthy dish for any occasion. Remember, you can personalize it with gluten-free pasta or extra veggies. Storing and reheating leftovers prolongs your meal’s freshness, too. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Chicken Parmesan Protein Pasta

A hearty and nutritious pasta dish featuring chicken breasts, marinara sauce, and a blend of cheeses.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz whole wheat or high-protein pasta
  • 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • for garnish fresh basil leaves

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Add the whole wheat or protein pasta and cook as per the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, keeping it warm.
  • Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides generously with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed for optimal flavor.
  • Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot oil. Sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.
  • Combine Ingredients: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Pour in the marinara sauce, stirring gently to warm it through and pick up any flavorful remnants from the chicken. Next, add the drained pasta to the skillet and carefully toss to ensure every strand is coated in the rich sauce.
  • Assemble the Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread half of the pasta and sauce mixture evenly on the bottom. Layer with half of the sliced chicken on top, followed by half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, chicken, and cheeses until all ingredients are used.
  • Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the cheeses are melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
  • Garnish & Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to set. Just before serving, garnish generously with fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor and color.

Notes

Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
Keyword chicken, dinner, healthy, parmesan, pasta