Giada De Laurentiis creamy high protein pasta is the easiest weeknight win

It’s a reliable weeknight hero

Giada De Laurentiis proves that fast weeknight dinners don’t have to be boring or unhealthy. Her creamy high-protein pasta combines juicy chicken, fresh spinach, and a ricotta-Parmesan sauce that clings to every bite of penne.

It’s big on flavor and nutrients. Let’s break down this recipe step by step so you can make it tonight.

Why this pasta recipe works every time

This pasta wins because it’s practical, delicious, and foolproof. The sauce thickens beautifully from the ricotta and Parmesan blend, while lean chicken boosts protein without heaviness.

It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, the ingredients are simple pantry staples transformed into something restaurant-worthy with Giada’s signature Italian touch.

Ingredients

This recipe makes about four servings, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. You’ll need lean chicken, whole grain or high-protein pasta, creamy ricotta, Parmesan, spinach, cherry tomatoes, and garlic.

Together, they create a creamy, savory pasta that tastes indulgent but is balanced with freshness and nutrition. Every bite hits that perfect mix of cheesy comfort and wholesome satisfaction Giada’s known for.

Protein essentials

Start with one pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes. Season with salt and pepper. Two tablespoons of olive oil are all you need for cooking.

The key is to get that golden sear on the chicken pieces; it locks in flavor and adds richness to the creamy sauce later. Light, lean, and packed with energy-building protein.

Pasta perfection

Giada recommends using 12 ounces of whole wheat or high-protein penne for this dish. The nutty, firm texture stands up to the creamy sauce and absorbs flavor beautifully.

Boil in salted water until just al dente, remembering to reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining. That starchy water will become your secret weapon for a silky sauce later.

Building the sauce base

This sauce is where the magic happens. You’ll need one cup of ricotta, half a cup of Parmesan, a cup of low-sodium chicken broth, and half a cup of milk.

Add minced garlic and a pinch of Italian seasoning for depth. The mixture melts into a creamy, cheesy emulsion that’s lighter than Alfredo but just as satisfying.

Adding color with vegetables

To brighten up the dish, Giada folds in two cups of chopped spinach and one cup of halved cherry tomatoes. The spinach wilts gently into the sauce, while the tomatoes burst slightly, adding sweetness and acidity.

You can also toss in a finely chopped onion for extra flavor. It’s a great way to sneak in greens without losing that indulgent feel.

Tools you’ll need

No fancy equipment here, just a large pot for pasta, a big skillet for the sauce, and a whisk for smooth mixing. A wooden spoon, measuring cups, and a strainer are all you need.

Giada’s philosophy: simple tools, great ingredients, and confidence in the kitchen. This recipe proves that ease and elegance can absolutely share the same plate.

Step 1. Cook the pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until it is firm to the bite, about 8–10 minutes.

Before draining, reserve one cup of the starchy cooking water; this will help thicken and bind the sauce later. Set the pasta aside, lightly drizzled with olive oil to prevent sticking, while you prepare the rest.

Step 2. Sear the chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.

The goal is a crisp exterior and juicy interior. Remove from the pan and set aside. Don’t clean the skillet; you’ll use those flavorful brown bits to build your sauce next.

Step 3. Build the creamy base

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the chicken broth, then whisk in ricotta, Parmesan, and milk.

The mixture will thicken slightly as it warms. Stir until smooth and creamy, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian herbs.

Step 4. Combine everything

Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss to coat evenly with sauce, adding reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time until the texture is creamy and glossy.

Fold in spinach and cherry tomatoes, letting the spinach wilt gently. The sauce should cling perfectly to the pasta, coating each piece without being too heavy.

Step 5. Finishing touches

Taste and adjust the seasoning, add more pepper or Parmesan if needed. For extra richness, drizzle a touch of olive oil or sprinkle with red pepper flakes for mild heat.

Let the pasta rest for a minute before serving so the sauce thickens slightly. Every forkful should be creamy, savory, and full of perfectly balanced textures.

Serving suggestion

Serve this pasta family-style in a large bowl or individual plates topped with extra Parmesan and fresh basil. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread.

The bright vegetables and cheesy sauce make it look as good as it tastes, comfort food that feels elegant and nourishing all at once. Total crowd-pleaser energy.

Make ahead and storage tips

This pasta reheats beautifully. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Add a splash of milk or broth before reheating to revive the creaminess.

You can also double the batch for meal prep; it’s a fantastic weekday lunch. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day. You can also make any of these Giada’s 7 most-raved-about weeknight dinners (all under 30 minutes).

Substitutions and variations

No chicken? Try cooked shrimp, turkey sausage, or tofu for a protein swap. Use gluten-free pasta if needed, or swap ricotta for Greek yogurt for extra protein. Add roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for flavor twists.

If you are up for more experimentation, you’ll be pleased to see why Rihanna’s favorite pasta lives up to the hype.

So, what’s your go-to comfort pasta when you need something fast but satisfying? Share with us in the comments.

Read more from this brand:

• Giada’s favorite pasta recipe with a coastal twist
• 15 celebrity chefs and their favorite pasta dishes
• Taylor Swift’s favorite Ina Garten pasta recipe just takes 20 minutes

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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.