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High Protein Chicken Orzo Recipe

High Protein Chicken Orzo Recipe
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★★★★★

5 from 13 reviews

This High Protein Chicken Orzo recipe is a wholesome, protein-packed meal featuring tender chicken breast, flavorful orzo pasta, fresh spinach, and cherry tomatoes simmered in a savory low-sodium chicken broth. It’s an easy-to-make, nutritious dish perfect for a balanced lunch or dinner that delivers comforting taste and substantial nourishment.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Pasta

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed

Vegetables and Fresh Ingredients

  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Liquids and Seasonings

  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnish

  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
  2. Cook Chicken: Add the cubed chicken breast to the pot and season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Sauté the chicken until it is cooked through and no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Sauté Vegetables: Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add Broth and Orzo: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, stir in the orzo pasta to cook.
  5. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer until the orzo is tender, about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Incorporate Spinach and Tomatoes: Add the chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes, cooking for an additional 3-5 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften slightly.
  7. Taste and Adjust: Sample the dish and adjust seasonings with additional salt and pepper as needed to suit your preference.
  8. Serve: Remove the pot from heat and let the dish rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Optionally, top with grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Notes

  • Use low-sodium chicken broth to keep the sodium content moderate and allow better control over salt levels.
  • For a dairy-free version, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
  • Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Fresh spinach can be replaced with kale or Swiss chard if desired, adjusting cooking time as needed.
  • This recipe pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Keywords: high protein chicken orzo, chicken orzo recipe, healthy chicken pasta, one pot chicken meal, low sodium chicken recipe, easy high protein dinner

Find it online: https://dishedbydana.com/high-protein-chicken-orzo-recipe/