Go Back
–+ servings
High Protein Chicken Orzo

High Protein Chicken Orzo: Your New Favorite One-Pan Wonder

High Protein Chicken Orzo is a nutritious, one-pan meal combining chicken, orzo, and veggies, perfect for busy weeknights.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Orzo Base
  • 1 cup orzo pasta can be substituted with quinoa or gluten-free orzo
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth vegetable broth can be a great vegetarian alternative
For the Protein
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast thighs can be used for a juicier bite
For the Vegetables
  • 1 medium onion yellow or white onions work best
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced fresh garlic ensures the best taste
  • 1 cup spinach, chopped kale can be substituted
  • 1 bell pepper, diced any variety adds sweetness and color
  • 1 zucchini, diced yellow squash can make a fine substitute
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved use canned tomatoes if out of season
For the Seasoning
  • 1 tsp dried oregano fresh herbs can also be used
  • 1 tsp thyme fresh thyme can also be utilized
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Creamy Finish
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled dairy-free cheese can be used for a vegan option
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped adds a touch of freshness

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Pot

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Begin by cooking the orzo pasta according to package instructions, typically around 8–10 minutes in boiling salted water until al dente.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken, seasoning with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. Sauté until golden brown.
  3. Remove the chicken and sauté the onion in the same skillet until translucent.
  4. Stir in garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini, cooking for 4–5 minutes.
  5. Add spinach and tomatoes, cooking for 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
  6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 3 minutes.
  7. Return chicken and add the drained orzo, mixing everything thoroughly and cooking for an additional 2–3 minutes.
  8. Remove from heat and fold in feta cheese until slightly melted.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 35gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to avoid any guesswork.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!