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High Protein Chicken Orzo

This High Protein Chicken Orzo dish is a nutritious and satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner. Packed with tender chicken and wholesome orzo pasta, this recipe combines delicious flavors with a good dose of protein to fuel your day.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4 People
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large pot
  • 1 skillet
  • 1 cutting board
  • 1 measuring cups and spoons
  • 1 wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese optional

Instructions
 

  • Begin by dicing the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
  • In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  • While the orzo is cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the onion. Sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  • Stir in the chicken broth, cherry tomatoes, and fresh spinach. Cook until the tomatoes are softened and the spinach is wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well. Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and stir to combine all ingredients. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
  • Remove from heat and, if desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Notes

For a spicier version, consider adding red pepper flakes.
This dish is great for meal prep; store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
You can also substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option while maintaining a high protein content.