Easy High Protein Chicken Orzo: A Delicious Power-Packed Meal

Looking for a quick, protein-packed meal that’s both nutritious and delicious?

This Easy High Protein Chicken Orzo is a family-friendly dish that combines Mediterranean flavors with lean chicken and hearty orzo. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping!

High Protein Chicken Orzo

This Easy High Protein Chicken Orzo is the perfect blend of deliciousness and nutrition, making it an excellent option for anyone looking for a quick, wholesome meal. With lean chicken breast and hearty orzo, this dish is protein-packed and comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s a versatile recipe, great for weeknight dinners or even meal prep, offering Mediterranean-inspired flavors that the whole family will love. Whether you’re a busy professional or simply seeking a healthy, balanced meal, this dish has you covered.

Recipe Ingredients

You’ll need just a handful of fresh, flavorful ingredients to create this high-protein meal:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1 cup orzo, uncooked
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup baby spinach, roughly chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh herbs (optional: parsley, basil) for garnish

Preparation Equipment

Before getting started, gather these essential kitchen tools:

• Large skillet for cooking the chicken and combining everything
• Medium saucepan for boiling the orzo
• Cutting board and knife for chopping the vegetables and chicken
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to create this easy, protein-packed chicken orzo dish:

1. Prepare the Chicken
   Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breasts, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables
   In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the garlic and onion until fragrant and softened, about 2-3 minutes. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
3. Boil the Orzo
   While the vegetables are cooking, boil the orzo in a separate saucepan according to package instructions. Drain and set aside once done.
4. Combine Everything
   Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in the cooked orzo, chicken broth, and lemon juice. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the flavors are well combined and the broth slightly reduces. Adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Garnish and Serve
   Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh herbs, and serve immediately. You can also add a little grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor if desired.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is perfect on its own, but you can elevate it by pairing it with:

• A light side salad of mixed greens and a lemon vinaigrette
• Roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus
• A slice of warm, crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth

Health Information

This recipe is not only packed with flavor but also with protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. Each serving offers:

• High protein content from lean chicken and orzo
• Low-fat with olive oil as the primary fat source
• Rich in fiber thanks to spinach and whole grain orzo
• Muscle-building nutrients that support a balanced diet

Storing and Reheating Tips

Have leftovers? This chicken orzo stores wonderfully, making it a great option for meal prep:

• Storing: Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying out, or microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

This recipe can also be frozen. Simply store it in freezer-safe containers and reheat on the stovetop, adding extra broth as needed to refresh the dish.

conclusion

I hope you enjoy making this Easy High Protein Chicken Orzo as much as I do! It’s a delicious, wholesome meal that comes together quickly and satisfies everyone at the table. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe will become a go-to for a healthy, protein-packed option. Happy cooking!

FAQ

1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes! You can substitute orzo with other small pasta like couscous, quinoa, or even whole wheat pasta for a similar texture. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work well and add extra flavor due to their higher fat content. Simply adjust the cooking time, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with chickpeas, tofu, or tempeh. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added flavor.

4. How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Sauté them along with the garlic and onions to blend the flavors.

5. Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, simply replace the orzo with a gluten-free pasta or grain, such as quinoa or gluten-free couscous, and double-check that the broth you’re using is gluten-free as well.

6. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prepping. You can cook it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!

7. What can I use instead of spinach?
You can substitute spinach with kale, Swiss chard, or arugula for a similar leafy texture. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as heartier greens may take longer to wilt.

8. How do I prevent the orzo from becoming mushy?
To avoid mushy orzo, be sure to cook it al dente according to the package instructions and drain it well before adding it to the dish. If it sits too long in the broth, it can absorb more liquid, so serve immediately after combining.

9. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this recipe freezes well. Just store it in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a bit of chicken broth to refresh the flavors and prevent it from drying out.

10. How can I make the dish spicier?
If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic and onions, or drizzle some hot sauce over the finished dish for an extra kick!