Mediterranean Diet Creamy Coconut Chicken Pasta Recipe By Registered Dietitian Maya Oueichek, MBA, RDN
Craving a satisfying, protein-rich, fiber-rich, and flavorful pasta dish? This Creamy Coconut Chicken Pasta recipe is your answer! It's a healthy and flavorful twist on a classic comfort food made with Protein pasta and a delicious dairy-free sauce. Plus, it's easy to whip up and perfect for meal prep, making your weeknights a breeze.
Why You Should Try This Mediterranean Diet Creamy Coconut Chicken Pasta Recipe?
Packed with Protein: Protein pasta offers up to double the protein of regular pasta, keeping you feeling fuller for longer. The chicken offers a great amount of high-quality complete protein as well.
Beginner Friendly: This recipe is very simple, easy to follow, and can be done in under 30 minutes.
Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe comes together quickly and stores well, making it ideal for portioning out for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
Ingredients For One Serving :
2 oz Barilla Protein+ Pasta
4 oz Chicken Tenders, chopped
2 Garlic Cloves, minced
1/4 Red Onion, diced
1/2 Large Tomato, diced
1/4 Cup Reduced Fat Coconut Milk
1/4 Cup Reduced Fat Mozzarella
Seasoning: 1 Tsp Turmeric, Salt, Pepper
Garnish: Fresh Oregano
Total Nutrition:
Calories: 470 per serving
Protein: 44 grams.
Fat: 12 grams
Carbohydrates: 50 grams
Fiber: 6 grams.
*Disclaimer: This analysis provides a rough estimate and may vary slightly based on factors such as specific brands of ingredients and preparation methods.
Directions:
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and turmeric. Heat a nonstick pan and add chicken until cooked through. Set aside.
Add garlic and onion to the pan and cook until fragrant. Stir in diced tomato and cook for 2 minutes.
Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
Cook Barilla Protein+ pasta according to package directions. Drain and reserve 1/4 cup pasta water.
Bringing it Together: Add pasta, chicken, and mozzarella to the sauce. Toss to combine and add reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
Finishing Touches: Garnish with fresh oregano and enjoy!
Dairy-Free Option: Simply omit the mozzarella cheese for a completely dairy-free version. You can also substitute with plant-based cheese alternatives like vegan mozzarella or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Nutrition Benefits of This Recipe:
Protein-Rich: The chicken tenders provide a significant amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth, as well as overall body function.
Good Source of Fiber: The recipe contains ingredients such as Barilla Protein+ Pasta, garlic, onion, and tomato, which contribute to the fiber content. Fiber is crucial for digestive health, promoting satiety, and regulating blood sugar levels.
Anemia-Friendly: Chicken provides heme iron, while tomatoes offer vitamin C, which enhances iron absorption. This makes the recipe an anemia-friendly option, supporting better iron uptake and potentially aiding those with low iron levels.
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