High Protein Cheesy Pasta Delight

Indulge in the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition with this High Protein Cheesy Pasta Delight, a mouthwatering meal that’s both satisfying and wholesome. Featuring tender slices of seasoned chicken breast, nutrient-rich spinach, and whole wheat pasta, this recipe is designed to pack a protein punch while keeping things light and guilt-free. The rich, creamy sauce made from cottage cheese, low-fat milk, and grated Parmesan delivers all the cheesy goodness you crave without overloading on calories. With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, this quick and easy dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or post-workout fuel. Plus, the use of simple herbs like dried basil and fresh garlic adds an aromatic touch that elevates every bite. Serve it piping hot, and don’t forget a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for that finishing flair! Perfect for anyone seeking a flavorful, high-protein pasta that's as healthy as it is delicious.

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 250 g Whole wheat pasta
• 300 g Chicken breast
• 200 g Cottage cheese
• 50 g Grated Parmesan cheese
• 120 ml Low-fat milk
• 2 tbsp Olive oil
• 2 units Garlic cloves
• 100 g Spinach leaves
• 1 tsp Salt
• 0.5 tsp Black pepper
• 1 tsp Dried basil

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and a pinch of salt to the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Step 2

While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 3

Season the chicken breast with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and half of the dried basil.

Step 4

Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked, with an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F). Remove and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly.

Step 5

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil, followed by minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 6

Add the spinach leaves to the skillet and sauté until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 7

Lower the heat, add the cottage cheese, low-fat milk, grated Parmesan cheese, remaining basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir frequently until the cheese sauce is smooth and well combined.

Step 8

Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet with the cheesy sauce, tossing everything together gently to ensure the pasta is fully coated and ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 9

Serve immediately hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1061.7 grams (1061.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1451

Total Fat 62.70g	80%
Saturated Fat 20.70g	103%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.30g
Cholesterol 336mg	112%
Sodium 4753mg	207%
Total Carbohydrate 95.30g	35%
Dietary Fiber 14.20g	51%
Total Sugars 23.60g
Protein 137.90g	276%

Vitamin D 58IU	292%
Calcium 992mg	76%
Iron 8mg	45%
Potassium 1961mg	42%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 37.7%

Protein: 36.8%

Carbs: 25.5%