High-Protein Chicken Parmesan Pasta

A healthier twist on the Italian-American classic, this High-Protein Chicken Parmesan Pasta is loaded with lean chicken breast, legume pasta, and protein-rich cheeses — perfect for fitness-focused dinners or nutritious family meals.

Course Main Course

Cuisine Fitness, Italian-American

Keyword chicken parmesan, healthy comfort food, high-protein pasta, muscle-friendly recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 25

Total Time 35

Servings servings

Calories 520kcal

Author Ellie

Cost 4

Equipment

skillet
baking dish
cooking pot
mixing spoon
cutting board and knife

Ingredients

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
8 oz chickpea or whole-grain pasta
1 cup marinara sauce (no added sugar)
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup low-fat cottage cheese
1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried Italian herbs
to taste salt and black pepper

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
Transfer chicken to a baking dish. Spread marinara sauce over each piece and top with cottage cheese and Parmesan.
Bake uncovered for 15–18 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted and bubbling.
Serve chicken over cooked pasta and spoon extra sauce and cheese on top. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Use chickpea or lentil pasta for extra fiber. Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze in individual portions for meal prep.

Nutrition