Name: High Protein Chicken Orzo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
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)

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High Protein Chicken Orzo is one of those dishes I always turn to when I want something comforting yet wholesome. It brings together tender chicken breast, orzo pasta, and vibrant vegetables in a rich, savory broth. The result is a protein-packed, flavorful bowl that feels as nourishing as it is satisfying. Whether I’m looking to prep meals for the week or make a crowd-pleasing dinner, this recipe never lets me down.

High Protein Chicken Orzo

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this High Protein Chicken Orzo has earned a permanent spot in my rotation:

Quick and Easy – I can get it on the table in under an hour, even on busy nights.
Packed with Protein – With chicken and whole grains, it’s a powerhouse of nutrition.
Incredible Flavor – I love the savory blend of herbs and the brightness from fresh vegetables.
One-Pot Simplicity – Less cleanup and all the flavor, thanks to everything coming together in a single pot.
Customizable – I can easily add veggies or switch up the seasonings to fit my taste.
Kid-Approved – It’s a great way to get a healthy meal in without any complaints from the little ones.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

– Orzo pasta
– Boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
– Low-sodium chicken broth
– Onion, diced
– Garlic, minced
– Fresh spinach, chopped
– Cherry tomatoes, halved
– Olive oil
– Dried oregano
– Dried basil
– Salt and pepper
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions

Heat the Oil
I start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Cook the Chicken
I add the cubed chicken breast and season it with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. I sauté it for about 5–7 minutes, until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
Sauté the Aromatics
Next, I stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, letting them cook until the onion turns translucent—around 3–4 minutes.
Add Broth and Orzo
I pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, I stir in the orzo pasta.
Simmer
I reduce the heat and let everything simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender.
Add the Veggies
I mix in the chopped spinach and cherry tomatoes, letting them cook for another 3–5 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften.
Final Seasoning
I give the dish a taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed, then remove it from heat.
Serve
I let it sit for a minute or two before serving. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top makes it extra comforting.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories per serving: Approx. 420 kcal

Variations

– Mediterranean Style: I add chopped olives, artichoke hearts, and crumbled feta for a zesty twist.
– Spicy Kick: A teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce gives it some heat.
– Vegetarian Version: I swap the chicken for chickpeas or white beans and use vegetable broth instead.
– Creamy Option: For extra richness, I stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt before serving.
– Whole Grain Orzo: Using whole grain orzo adds extra fiber and a nuttier taste.

Storage/Reheating

– Storage: I let any leftovers cool, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
– Freezing: I portion the cooled orzo into freezer-safe containers and freeze it for up to 2 months.
– Reheating: I reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to keep it creamy and moist.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, I’ve swapped in ditalini or even rice when I’m out of orzo. The texture changes a bit, but it still tastes great.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

I reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a little broth added in. It keeps everything moist and helps revive the flavors.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Definitely. I often make it the night before and store it in the fridge—it reheats well and even tastes better the next day.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

I like to serve it with a light green salad or some crusty bread. Roasted vegetables also work really well as a side.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely. It keeps well in the fridge and freezer, making it ideal for prepping several portions ahead of time.

Conclusion

High Protein Chicken Orzo is the kind of meal that checks every box for me—delicious, nutritious, quick, and easy. It’s cozy without being heavy, full of protein, and customizable enough to keep things interesting week after week. Whether I’m feeding a crowd or just looking for a balanced meal I can rely on, this recipe always delivers. Give it a try, and I think it’ll earn a regular place in your kitchen too.