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High Protein Chicken Orzo

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This High Protein Chicken Orzo is a flavorful, nutritious, and satisfying one-pan meal that’s perfect for meal prep, post-workout meals, or an easy weeknight dinner. Packed with lean protein, fiber, and healthy carbs, it’s a great way to fuel your body while keeping things delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ High Protein & Filling – Perfect for muscle recovery and satiety.
✔️ One-Pan Meal – Easy cleanup and quick prep!
✔️ Packed with Flavor – Garlic, lemon, and herbs make this dish irresistible.
✔️ Customizable – Add veggies, swap the protein, or adjust the seasonings!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Orzo:

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 ½ cups chicken broth (low sodium)
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt (adds creaminess & protein)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • ½ teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra protein & flavor)

Optional Add-Ins:

  • 1 cup baby spinach (for added nutrients)
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ¼ cup chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Season the diced chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
  3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
  4. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Orzo

  1. In the same skillet, add orzo pasta and toast for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
  2. Pour in chicken broth and season with garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, and lemon zest.
  3. Simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo absorbs the broth and becomes tender.

Step 3: Combine & Finish

  1. Stir in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese for a creamy texture.
  2. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well.
  3. If using, add baby spinach and cherry tomatoes, stirring until spinach wilts.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

  1. Garnish with chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
  2. Serve warm and enjoy a protein-packed, delicious meal!

Serving Suggestions

🥗 Pair with a side salad for extra fiber.
🥒 Serve with roasted veggies like zucchini or asparagus.
🍋 Add extra lemon juice for a fresh, zesty kick.

Storage & Meal Prep

  • Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat: Warm in a skillet with a splash of broth to keep it creamy.
  • Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Swap orzo for gluten-free pasta or quinoa.

2. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Just shred and stir it in at the end.

3. Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free yogurt and skip the Parmesan.

4. Can I add more protein?

Yes! Mix in chickpeas, lentils, or extra chicken.

5. What’s a good substitute for orzo?

Try quinoa, rice, or whole wheat couscous for variety.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Chicken Orzo is a creamy, delicious, and nutritious meal that’s perfect for fueling your body while keeping things flavorful. Whether for meal prep, post-workout meals, or an easy dinner, this dish will keep you full, satisfied, and energized!

🍗🍚💪 Tried this recipe? Let me know how it turned out! 😊