High Protein Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe - Easy and Delicious

High Protein Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe - Easy and Delicious is a easy American recipe that serves 2. 495 calories per serving. Recipe by Kyle Launer on YouTube.

Prep: 10 min | Cook: 12 min | Total: 32 min

Cost: $4.82 total, $2.41 per serving

Ingredients

  • 200 g Chicken Breast (boneless, skinless; cut into two equal pieces)
  • 1 Tbsp Olive Oil (extra‑virgin)
  • 2 cups Broccoli Florets (fresh, cut into bite‑size pieces)
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 1 small Shallot (finely diced)
  • 0.25 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (lightly toasted)
  • 85 g Whole Wheat Pasta (uncooked; any shape; cooked al dente)
  • 0.25 cup Water (for steaming broccoli)
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper

Instructions

  1. Prep Ingredients

    Trim any fat from the chicken breast and cut into two equal pieces. Cut broccoli into bite‑size florets. Mince the garlic and finely dice the shallot.

    Time: PT10M

  2. Cook Chicken Breast

    Heat the large skillet over medium‑high heat, add the olive oil, then place the chicken pieces in the pan. Cook 2 minutes per side until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

    Time: PT4M

    Temperature: medium-high

  3. Rest Chicken

    Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside while you finish the vegetables.

    Time: PT1M

  4. Steam Broccoli

    Add ¼ cup water to the same skillet, then add the broccoli florets. Cover with a lid and steam for 4–5 minutes until bright green and just tender, scraping up any browned bits from the chicken.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: medium

  5. Sauté Aromatics

    Remove the lid, add the minced garlic and diced shallot to the pan, and sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: medium

  6. Toast Red Pepper Flakes

    Sprinkle the red pepper flakes over the aromatics and stir for 30 seconds until aromatic.

    Time: PT30S

    Temperature: medium

  7. Combine Pasta

    Add the cooked whole‑wheat pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the vegetables and pan juices.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: medium

  8. Finish Dish

    Slice the rested chicken (if desired) and return it to the skillet. Toss everything together, season with salt and black pepper, and cook 1 more minute to reheat the chicken.

    Time: PT1M

    Temperature: medium

  9. Portion for Meal Prep

    Divide the mixture evenly into two airtight containers. Allow to cool slightly before sealing and refrigerating.

    Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
495
Protein
38g
Carbohydrates
45g
Fat
12g
Fiber
6g

Dietary info: High Protein, Low Calorie, Gluten (contains), Dairy-Free, Nut-Free

Allergens: Wheat, Soy (possible in enriched pasta)

Last updated: April 20, 2026

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High Protein Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Recipe - Easy and Delicious

Recipe by Kyle Launer

A quick, under‑500‑calorie meal‑prep recipe packed with 38 g of protein per serving. Seared chicken breast, crisp‑tender broccoli, garlic‑shallot aromatics, and whole‑wheat pasta come together in one pan for a flavorful, balanced dinner that stores well for the week.

EasyAmericanServes 2

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
11m
Prep
15m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
36m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$4.82
Total cost
$2.41
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Cook Chicken Breast
  • Steam Broccoli
  • Finish Dish

Safety Warnings

  • Handle the hot skillet with oven mitts to avoid burns.
  • Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Steam can cause burns; keep face away from the lid when releasing steam.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of high‑protein meal‑prep dishes in American cuisine?

A

High‑protein meal‑prep dishes grew popular in the United States alongside the fitness and wellness movement of the 2000s, emphasizing convenience, balanced macros, and portion control for busy lifestyles.

cultural
Q

How does the High‑Protein Chicken, Broccoli & Pasta Meal Prep fit into the broader American health‑focused cooking tradition?

A

It reflects the American trend of combining classic comfort foods—like pasta—with lean proteins and vegetables to create a nutritionally balanced, calorie‑controlled meal that can be prepared ahead of time.

cultural
Q

What traditional regional variations exist for chicken‑and‑broccoli pasta dishes in the United States?

A

In the Southwest, cooks often add chipotle or cumin; in the Pacific Northwest, they might incorporate local greens and a drizzle of maple‑soy glaze. The basic concept remains the same: lean protein, cruciferous veg, and pasta.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is a high‑protein chicken, broccoli, and pasta dish traditionally associated with in American culture?

A

While not tied to a specific holiday, it is a staple for weekly meal‑prep, post‑workout recovery meals, and family dinner nights where quick, nutritious food is valued.

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for this dish versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Authentic ingredients include boneless skinless chicken breast, fresh broccoli, whole‑wheat pasta, garlic, shallot, and olive oil. Acceptable substitutes are turkey breast, frozen broccoli, gluten‑free pasta, and avocado oil.

cultural
Q

What other American dishes pair well with High‑Protein Chicken, Broccoli & Pasta Meal Prep?

A

It pairs nicely with a simple mixed green salad, roasted sweet potatoes, or a side of quinoa for extra protein and texture variety.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making High‑Protein Chicken, Broccoli & Pasta Meal Prep?

A

Common errors include overcooking the chicken, steaming the broccoli too long, and using overly soft pasta which becomes mushy when reheated. Follow the timing guidelines and keep the pasta al dente.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe toast red pepper flakes instead of adding them raw?

A

Toasting releases the essential oils, giving a deeper, more aromatic heat without the raw, bitter edge that raw flakes can sometimes impart.

technical
Q

Can I make High‑Protein Chicken, Broccoli & Pasta Meal Prep ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, prepare the entire dish, divide into airtight containers, and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the portions and reheat in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Kyle Launer specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Kyle Launer focuses on quick, nutritious home‑cooking tutorials, especially meal‑prep recipes that are high in protein and under 500 calories per serving.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Kyle Launer's approach to healthy American cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Kyle Launer emphasizes precise macro tracking, minimal ingredient lists, and efficient one‑pan techniques, whereas many other channels prioritize flavor exploration or elaborate multi‑step preparations.

channel

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