It is 6pm and you are tired. Dinner needs to happen fast. This high-protein chicken pasta is here to save your night.

There is something magical about the smell of thyme on a crisp fall evening. This recipe brings all those cozy autumn vibes to your table. You get the flavor of a slow-cooked pie without the work.

Why This Recipe Is a Winner

This dish gives you all the comfort of a classic pot pie. It is packed with protein to keep your family full and happy. You only need one pot and one skillet to make it happen.

It is perfect for busy fall weeknights when time is short. Beginners will love how simple the creamy sauce is to make. Your kids will love the familiar, savory flavors of the tender chicken.

Simple Method

You will start by boiling your favorite high-protein pasta. While that cooks, you create a quick sauce in a skillet. There is no need for a complicated roux or heavy cream.

Using a slurry makes the sauce thick and glossy in minutes. Even if you have never made a sauce, you can do this. It comes together quickly with just a whisk and a simmer.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Most of these items are likely already in your pantry or freezer. Using frozen veggies is a smart time-saving shortcut for busy cooks.

12 oz high-protein chickpea or lentil rotini pasta
1.5 lbs cooked chicken breast, shredded
1 cup frozen peas and carrots
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup 2% milk
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1/2 cup non-fat Greek yogurt
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried rosemary
Salt and black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step

Cook pasta in boiling salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.
Whisk 1/4 cup chicken broth with flour in a large skillet over medium heat.
Whisk in remaining broth and milk, simmering until thickened.
Add peas, carrots, garlic powder, thyme, and rosemary; simmer for 4 minutes.
Incorporate shredded chicken and cooked pasta into the sauce.
Remove from heat and stir in Greek yogurt until creamy.
Season with salt and pepper and serve immediately.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve this in big, warm bowls on a chilly evening. A side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the sauce. You can also add a simple side salad for a fresh crunch.

Set the table and enjoy a cozy night in with your family. This meal feels special but takes very little effort. It is the ultimate feel-good dinner for a cold day.

Storage & Reheating

Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. This high-protein chicken pasta stays fresh for up to three days. It makes a fantastic warm lunch for the next day.

To reheat, add a splash of milk or broth to the bowl. Warm it gently in the microwave or on the stove. This keeps the sauce creamy and prevents the pasta from drying out.

Tips for Best Results

Use rotisserie chicken to make this meal even faster.
Do not skip the Greek yogurt for that signature creamy texture.
Wait to stir in the yogurt until the heat is off.
Keep the pasta al dente so it does not get mushy.
Double the peas if your family loves extra garden-fresh veggies.
Season generously with black pepper for a little bit of warmth.
Whisk the flour slurry well to avoid any small lumps.
Add a pinch of fresh parsley at the end to brighten it up.

Easy Flavor Ideas

Swap the chicken for leftover holiday turkey in the winter.
Use gluten-free flour to keep the whole dish gluten-free.
Add a handful of sautéed mushrooms for an earthy fall flavor.
Try honey instead of rosemary for a slightly sweeter profile.
Switch to whole wheat pasta for a different hearty texture.

Common Questions

Can I use regular pasta instead?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you have on hand. High-protein pasta just adds more nutrition to your meal. Regular rotini or penne will still taste delicious in this sauce.

How do I know when the sauce is thick enough?

The sauce should coat the back of a spoon easily. It will also thicken more once you stir in the yogurt. Do not worry if it looks a little thin at first.

Will my kids actually eat this?

Most kids love the creamy sauce and familiar peas and carrots. It tastes very similar to a traditional pot pie filling. It is a picky-eater friendly way to serve a healthy dinner.

I hope this cozy meal brings comfort to your table tonight. Give it a try and watch the plates clear fast. Happy cooking!

— Lidia