🥗 Pesto Chicken Power Bowl: The Pasta That Fuels My Day
If you’re always looking for a lunch that’s quick to make, keeps you full, and actually tastes amazing, this Pesto Chicken Power Bowl is about to become your new go-to.
It’s packed with lean protein, healthy fats, fiber, and vibrant flavor — all in one beautiful bowl. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just need a quick 20-minute recipe, this one checks all the boxes: easy, satisfying, and totally glow-up approved.
🌿 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High-protein: Keeps you full and helps build lean muscle.
- Fresh & flavorful: Thanks to homemade or quality store-bought pesto.
- Great for meal prep: Stays delicious in the fridge for days.
- Balanced: Carbs, protein, healthy fats, and greens in one bowl.
🛒 Ingredients
For 2 servings:
🔸 Chicken:
- 2 chicken breasts or thighs (boneless, skinless)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
🔸 Pasta Bowl:
- 1 ½ cups cooked pasta (penne, fusilli, or chickpea pasta for extra protein)
- 1/3 cup pesto (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 handful fresh spinach or arugula
- 1/2 avocado, sliced (optional)
- 6-8 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tbsp pine nuts or sunflower seeds (for crunch)
- Shredded parmesan (optional)
🥣 How to Make It
1. Cook the Chicken
- Season your chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked.
- Let it rest, then slice into strips.
2. Boil the Pasta
- Cook your pasta of choice according to package instructions.
- Drain, and while still warm, toss with pesto until well coated.
3. Assemble Your Bowl
In each bowl, layer:
- A bed of fresh spinach/arugula
- A generous scoop of pesto pasta
- Sliced chicken on top
- Cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, pine nuts
- Optional: sprinkle parmesan for extra flavor
✨ Pro Tips
- Meal prep tip: Store components separately and assemble fresh for best texture.
- Protein boost: Use lentil or chickpea pasta for even more plant-based protein.
- Make it creamy: Add a spoon of Greek yogurt to your pesto for a creamier finish.
🧊 Storage
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Enjoy cold or reheat the chicken and pasta for a warm bowl.
💬 Final Thoughts
This Pesto Chicken Power Bowl is one of those meals that makes you feel nourished, energized, and satisfied—without any heaviness. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like self-care, tastes like a treat, and fits your fitness or glow-up goals.
