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Chicken Pasta Meal Prep

Chicken Pasta Meal Prep


  • Author: Samantha Jones
  • Total Time: 40
  • Yield: 4 meal prep bowls 1x
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Description

A hearty and healthy meal prep featuring tender chicken, whole wheat pasta, roasted vegetables, and spinach in a creamy garlic sauce. Ideal for quick lunches and dinners.


Ingredients

Scale

12 ounces whole wheat penne pasta or rotini
1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small yellow onion, diced into small, even cubes
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cups fresh baby spinach
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes


Instructions

Cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually 8 to 10 minutes. Drain well and set aside. While pasta cooks, prep the chicken and vegetables to save time.
Season the chicken. Pat chicken cubes dry with paper towels. In a bowl, toss chicken with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika until evenly coated.
Sear the chicken. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden on the outside and cooked through. Transfer chicken to a clean plate.
Roast the veggies. Toss cherry tomatoes, onion, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a bowl, then spread on a rimmed baking sheet. Roast for 12 to 15 minutes, until the tomatoes start to blister and the onion is golden. Remove tomatoes and onions from baking sheet and set aside.
Make the sauce. In the same skillet, stir in 1/2 cup warm water, 1 cup chicken broth, and 1 cup Greek yogurt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in Parmesan, lemon juice, and parsley. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until smooth and slightly thickened (do not let it boil).
Combine everything. Add cooked pasta, roasted tomatoes and onions, and baby spinach to the sauce. Mix well to coat.
Divide into containers. Portion into 4 airtight meal prep containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Notes

The creamy sauce uses Greek yogurt and Parmesan as a substitute for traditional dairy-based sauces. For a vegan option, skip Parmesan and replace yogurt with plant-based alternatives.
Add red pepper flakes for a spicy twist if desired.
To ensure the sauce remains smooth while reheating, add 1-2 tablespoons water per bowl when warming up.

  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 25
  • Category: Recipes
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 6500mg
  • Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Carbohydrates: 54g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 48g
  • Cholesterol: 230mg