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A delicious plate of High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowls

High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowls

Enjoy a quick and satisfying High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowl, perfect for a weeknight meal. This recipe combines al dente pasta with a creamy garlic parmesan sauce and tender grilled chicken.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 1 serving
Course: Main Dish, Pasta
Cuisine: American
Calories: 385
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 oz dry penne or rigatoni Cook until just al dente, reserving ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
  • 4.25 oz grilled chicken breast Use pre-cooked, sliced, or rotisserie chicken for convenience and quick preparation.
  • 1 tsp olive oil For sautéing the minced garlic.
  • 1 clove garlic Minced finely for maximum flavor; watch closely to avoid burning.
  • 2 tbsp light cream cheese Whisk constantly to ensure a smooth, lump-free sauce.
  • 1 tbsp grated parmesan Use real grated Parmesan, not pre-shredded, for best melting and flavor.
  • 2 tbsp unsweetened almond milk Or your milk of choice; adjust amount for desired sauce consistency.
  • to taste salt and black pepper Season generously to enhance all the flavors in the dish.
  • optional fresh parsley or spinach Add parsley for garnish or spinach for extra greens; spinach wilts quickly.

Equipment

  • Non-stick skillet
  • Tongs
  • Serving bowl

Method
 

  1. Cook the penne or rigatoni in salted boiling water until just al dente, about 8-9 minutes. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining. Drain but don't rinse because the starchy coating helps the sauce cling to each noodle.
  2. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant and lightly golden. Watch it closely because burnt garlic turns bitter.
  3. Lower heat to medium-low. Add cream cheese and almond milk, whisking constantly until completely smooth with no lumps, about 1-2 minutes. If the sauce seems thick, add another tablespoon of milk or a splash of reserved pasta water.
  4. Stir in grated parmesan and season generously with salt and black pepper. The sauce should coat the back of your spoon nicely.
  5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with tongs until every piece is coated in sauce, about 1 minute. If using spinach, toss it in now because it wilts in seconds.
  6. Transfer to a serving bowl and top with sliced grilled chicken. Garnish with extra parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

This quick and easy High Protein Garlic Parmesan Pasta Bowl is perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal. Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic or spice to your liking. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the chicken and consider adding more vegetables or a plant-based protein.