You’re going to love this Macro Friendly Chicken Pasta Salad. It’s quick, easy to make, low calorie, and absolutely delicious. Makes for a perfect lunch when you’re in a rush.
I get a lot of comments saying I eat the same thing but I really can’t help it. I get so fixated on it and crave it! Swear. For example, this pasta. I’ve been eating this for the past two weeks and even though the recipe is so simple and easy I’ve been getting lots of comments regarding the recipe. It’s not homemade either but that’s what makes it quick! We love quick. At least I love quick. Emphasis on the I.
Only 353 calories and 27g of protein?! Unheard of. Okay, a little dramatic but that’s a great meal right there.
Macro Friendly Chicken Pasta Salad
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken Breast, shredded
- Bow Tie Noodles – Want MORE protein and fiber? Switch them out for Banza pasta! It’s packed with fiber and protein.
- Cucumber, chopped
- Carrots, chopped
- Bell Peppers, chopped
- Italian Dressing, Kraft
- Italian Seasoning
- Parmesan Cheese
- Salt
- Pepper
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls – I think I’ve linked these in every single blog post since I’ve started. These are a staple in my kitchen accessories. They come in all sizes and are so versatile. I love them! Definitely a kitchen must have.
- Meat Thermometer
- Saucepan
- Strainer – This one from Amazon is great! You just clip it to the side of your pot and strain.
Adjustable Macros
The best thing is, this meal is adjustable. For me, I like to have about 5 smaller meals throughout the day but maybe you don’t like to lug around a big lunchbox like I do. Understandable. Pause – if you DO like to, then I am obsessed with this lunchbox I got off Amazon. Yes, I lug it everywhere and I don’t care who judges me. Anyways, what I was saying is that this lunch is adjustable because we all have different macro goals. My protein, fats, and carb intake for the day isn’t going to be the same as yours. Adjust this to your macros and goals – if you need more protein, add chicken, if you need more carbs, add noodles.
Other High Protein Meals and Snacks
Struggling getting in more protein? Take a look at my blog post on 5 ways to increase your protein while counting macros. Protein is definitely a common struggle to hit for a lot of people but it feels so good when you hit your protein goal and it is SO important.
Try out this recipe?
Did you try out this recipe? I’d love to see you recreate it. Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook so I can see.
Macro Friendly Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Instructions
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Boil your pasta according to the package. Usually, I do about 8 minutes but I always keep checking on it. You don't want them too mushy.
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For the chicken, feel free to use shredded or chopped. The easy route would be canned chicken but if you want to, you can boil and shred it. Or, buy a rotisserie chicken and shred that. Totally up to you - cook your chicken how you prefer it. If you decide to boil it, I found this blog on how to boil the juiciest chicken breast.
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Add everything to a mixing bowl, mix, and enjoy!
Serving Size 1
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 353kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 9g14%
- Total Carbohydrate 49g17%
- Protein 27g54%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.