High Protein Chicken Orzo
This High Protein Chicken Orzo is a hearty and wholesome dish packed with chicken, nutritious veggies, and orzo pasta. Perfect for a fulfilling dinner, it offers a delicious way to boost your protein intake while enjoying a flavorful meal.
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 skillet
- 1 cutting board
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
- 1 wooden spoon
- 4 serving plates
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lemon juiced
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes), then remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Add minced garlic and diced bell pepper, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped spinach, drained diced tomatoes, and dried oregano. Cook until the spinach is wilted, roughly 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Once simmering, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Allow everything to heat through for about 5 minutes.
- Add the cooked orzo to the chicken and vegetable mixture, then pour in the lemon juice. Stir well to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
To increase the protein content, you may add beans or chickpeas.
Feel free to add other vegetables, like zucchini or mushrooms, based on your preference.
This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great make-ahead meal.