Easy One-Pot Creamy Spinach and Chicken Pasta (High-Protein, Just 370 Calories per Serving)

When you’re juggling work, family, and everything else life throws at you, the last thing you want is to wash a pile of pots and pans. That’s why one-pot meals are a true lifesaver. Not only do they cut down on cleanup, but they also make sure the flavors meld beautifully, without losing nutrients down the drain.

Chicken Pasta is especially good for one-pot cooking. As it cooks, it releases starch that naturally thickens the sauce, giving you a rich, satisfying texture without needing heavy cream or butter.

Registered dietitian Sarah Patel explains:

“This one-pot pasta recipe is a simple, affordable way to get a solid serving of protein. By using lentil-based pasta instead of regular white pasta, you get double the protein and fiber. Cooking it all in one pot with bone broth and lean chicken breast gives you a flavorful, nourishing meal perfect for busy nights.”

Below you’ll find a step-by-step recipe for an easy, creamy spinach and chicken pasta—no draining required!

One-Pot Creamy Spinach and Chicken Pasta

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
  
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
  
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
  
• 8 oz boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  
• 8 oz lentil pasta (any shape you like)
  
• 2½ cups chicken bone broth (flavor of your choice)
  
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or low-fat milk)
  
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
  
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  
• 3 cups fresh baby spinach
  
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Method

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
   
2. Add the chicken pieces. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides.
   
3. Add the lentil pasta, bone broth, almond milk, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
   
4. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes. Stir every few minutes to prevent sticking.
   
5. When the pasta is nearly done and most of the liquid has reduced, add the fresh spinach. Stir until wilted.
   
6. Remove from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and well combined.
   
7. Top with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
   

Nutrition Highlights (per serving)

• Calories: ~370
  
• Protein: ~32g
  
• Fiber: ~9g
  
• Fat: ~9g

Why You’ll Love It

• High in protein thanks to lean chicken and lentil pasta
  
• Extra fiber for better digestion
  
• One-pot convenience saves time and dishes
  
• Balanced flavor with creamy broth and fresh herbs
  

This meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting but still healthy. Plus, it’s easy to customize. Swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu, use kale instead of spinach, or adjust the spices to your liking.

Give it a try next time you’re craving pasta but want to keep it light, nutritious, and simple to make!