High-Carb Pasta with Chicken, Spinach, and Sweet Potato

High-Carb Pasta with Chicken, Spinach, and Sweet Potato

Ingredients (Serves 2):

  • 200g whole wheat pasta (or any preferred pasta for extra carbs)
  • 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
  • 2 chicken breasts (approx. 250g), skinless and boneless
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated parmesan (optional, for serving)
  • Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of water and cook the whole wheat pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside, saving a cup of pasta water.

  2. Roast the Sweet Potato: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Spread the diced sweet potato on a baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tbsp of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender, stirring halfway through.

  3. Cook the Chicken: While the sweet potato is roasting, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 75°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.

  4. Sauté the Spinach and Garlic: In the same frying pan, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and sauté for 3-4 minutes until wilted.

  5. Combine and Serve: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, roasted sweet potato, sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, and sliced chicken. Add a bit of reserved pasta water if the dish seems dry. Toss well to mix everything together.

  6. Finish and Serve: Top with grated parmesan (optional) and fresh basil leaves for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutritional Info (Per Serving):

  • Calories: ~580 kcal
  • Protein: ~40g
  • Carbs: ~75g
  • Fat: ~15g
  • Fibre: ~10g

 

High Carb Pasta and Chicken, add a sprinkle of parmesan for extra zing

Why You’ll Love It:

This High-Carb Pasta with Chicken, Spinach, and Sweet Potato delivers a rich source of complex carbohydrates for energy, lean protein for muscle repair, and plenty of fibre for digestion. The sweet potato provides slow-releasing carbs, keeping you fuelled throughout the day, while the spinach and chicken support muscle recovery and overall strength. It’s a balanced, delicious, and hearty meal that’s perfect for runners in need of sustained energy before or after a workout!

Back to blog