High Protein Chicken Orzo

Introduction

A wholesome, high-protein meal doesn’t have to be bland or complicated. This High Protein Chicken Orzo recipe delivers juicy chicken, tender orzo pasta, and plenty of vegetables, all tossed in a flavorful, savory sauce. Ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, this dish is satisfying, rich in nutrients, and comes together quickly in one pan for easy cleanup.

Why High Protein Chicken Orzo is a Standout Meal

What makes this recipe truly special is its perfect blend of lean protein, whole grains, and fresh vegetables. The orzo absorbs the savory flavors of chicken and aromatic herbs, while the added vegetables boost both nutrition and texture. This dish is hearty enough to keep you fueled, yet light enough to enjoy any night of the week—a crowd-pleaser even for picky eaters!

The Secret to Perfectly Cooked Chicken

Achieving juicy, flavorful chicken starts with a good sear. Browning the chicken pieces first adds depth of flavor, then finishing them in the simmering orzo ensures a tender, perfectly cooked result. Use chicken breast for the leanest option, or swap in thighs for extra juiciness—either way, the protein content will help power you through your day.

Simple Steps to a Balanced Chicken Orzo Meal

After searing the chicken, aromatic veggies like onion, garlic, and spinach create a nutrient-rich base. The orzo cooks right in the same pan, soaking up every bit of flavor. A finish of lemon juice and fresh herbs brightens the whole dish for a refreshing, protein-packed meal in less than 40 minutes.

Serving Suggestions for a High Protein Dinner

Serve this chicken orzo with a simple green salad or roasted broccoli to round out your meal. Top with a sprinkle of feta or parmesan, or a squeeze of fresh lemon for an extra pop of flavor. This dish keeps well and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers or lunch the next day.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This recipe yields 4 generous servings, each packing around 35-40 grams of protein. With lean chicken, fiber-rich orzo, and plenty of veggies, each portion comes in under 450 calories, making it a balanced, filling, and nutritious meal.

High Protein Chicken Orzo (Recap)

High Protein Chicken Orzo brings together lean chicken, wholesome orzo, and a medley of vibrant vegetables in a satisfying, all-in-one meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. It’s an excellent crowd-pleaser for athletes, families, or anyone seeking a quick, high-protein dinner.

💡Meal Planning Tip: Save this recipe to automatically generate an organized shopping list with all ingredients sorted by store section—perfect for efficient grocery trips and meal planning.

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Add chicken to the skillet and sear until golden on all sides, about 4-5 minutes (they don’t have to be fully cooked yet). Transfer to a plate.
2. In the same skillet, add diced onion and bell pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened, then add garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.
3. Stir in orzo and toast for 1 minute. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Return the partially cooked chicken to the pan. Stir, cover, and let cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Stir in spinach and cherry tomatoes. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until spinach wilts and tomatoes soften.
6. Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice, and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle with optional feta or parmesan and parsley before serving.

Weekly Meal Planning

This High Protein Chicken Orzo is a meal prep superstar. Save and schedule this recipe to your weekly meal plan and automatically create smart shopping lists that combine ingredients from all your planned meals—no more duplicate items or forgotten groceries.

Planning Benefits:

– Calculates total quantities for overlapping ingredients
– Groups items by store section for quick, stress-free shopping
– Ensures you have everything you need for efficient weekly meal prep
– Reduces food waste by smartly consolidating your grocery list

Pro tip: Using CookifyAI, plan your week with different chicken recipes and the app will neatly combine your chicken and produce amounts, so you always buy the right amount—saving money and time each week!

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes