High Protein Chicken Orzo: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Why make this recipe

High Protein Chicken Orzo is a delicious and nutritious meal that brings together the goodness of chicken, orzo pasta, and vibrant vegetables. It’s perfect for those who want a high-protein dish that’s still comforting and satisfying. This recipe is simple to prepare, making it a great weeknight dinner option. Plus, it’s packed with flavor and nutrients, keeping you full and energized!

How to make High Protein Chicken Orzo

Ingredients:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Directions:

Creating High Protein Chicken Orzo can be straightforward if you follow these simple steps:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook Chicken: Add the cubed chicken breast to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Sauté until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion becomes translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Broth and Orzo: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in the orzo pasta.
5. Simmer: Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer until the orzo is tender, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Incorporate Spinach and Tomatoes: Add the chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes to the pot. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes or until spinach wilts and tomatoes soften.
7. Taste and Adjust: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
8. Serve: Remove from heat and let sit for a couple of minutes before serving. This easy-to-follow guide will allow you to create an amazing, wholesome dish effortlessly!

How to serve High Protein Chicken Orzo

Serve High Protein Chicken Orzo in bowls. Top with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if you like. It pairs well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread on the side for a complete meal.

How to store High Protein Chicken Orzo

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months; just reheat thoroughly when ready to eat.

Tips to make High Protein Chicken Orzo

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs before cooking.
• You can use whole wheat orzo for added fiber.
• If you like a bit of spice, add red pepper flakes while sautéing the chicken.

Variation

Feel free to swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu to cater to different tastes or dietary needs. You can also experiment with various vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to change up the flavors.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole grain orzo?
Yes, whole grain orzo is a great substitute and adds more fiber.

2. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well and can be reheated for a quick, healthy meal.

3. Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, you can add any vegetables you like! Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they cook through.

High Protein Chicken Orzo

A delicious and nutritious high-protein meal combining chicken, orzo pasta, and vibrant vegetables. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Healthy

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the cubed chicken breast to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Sauté until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion becomes translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in the orzo pasta.
5. Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer until the orzo is tender, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes to the pot. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes or until spinach wilts and tomatoes soften.
7. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
8. Remove from heat and let sit for a couple of minutes before serving.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze portions for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly when ready to eat.