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Homemade High-protein tomato pasta with chicken & spinach photo

High-protein tomato pasta with chicken & spinach

This high-protein tomato pasta is a delicious and nutritious weeknight meal that comes together in under 30 minutes!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic crushed
  • 1 pinch chilli flakes (optional)
  • 2 400g tins chopped peeled tomatoes
  • 2 teaspoons sugar (optional)
  • 200 g smooth low-fat cottage cheese
  • 15 g fresh basil chopped
  • 100 g baby spinach leaves (or normal, roughly chopped)
  • 250 g San Remo gluten-free penne
  • 3 skinless boneless chicken breasts cooked
  • 30 g parmesan freshly grated
  • sea salt and pepper for seasoning

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet or saucepan
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Colander
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Step 1: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with sea salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest.
  2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the crushed garlic and optional chilli flakes, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. Pour in the chopped tomatoes and add sugar if desired. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes.
  3. Step 3: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gluten-free penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  4. Step 4: Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the cottage cheese, chopped basil, and spinach. Let it wilt slightly before adding the cooked pasta. Slice the chicken and mix it in gently. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  5. Step 5: Plate your pasta and top with freshly grated parmesan. Enjoy your high-protein tomato pasta with chicken & spinach hot, garnished with extra basil if desired.

Notes

  • Customize the pasta by adding seasonal vegetables.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze portions for up to 3 months, thawing overnight in the fridge before reheating.