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Juicy High Protein Chicken Orzo Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 104 reviews

This Juicy High Protein Chicken Orzo is a comforting one-pan dish that combines tender, seasoned chicken with golden toasted orzo pasta, fresh asparagus, baby spinach, and a creamy parmesan finish. Perfect for a nutritious and flavorful weeknight meal, it delivers a delightful blend of textures and vibrant flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 1 1/2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders, diced into 1 inch cubes
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion (about 1/2 medium)
  • 2 cups fresh asparagus, cut into 1 inch segments
  • 1 tbsp finely chopped garlic (about 3 cloves)
  • 2 cups baby spinach
  • Chopped parsley, for garnish

Orzo and Liquids

  • 8 oz uncooked orzo pasta
  • 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme or 1/4 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/3 cup half-and-half or milk

Fats and Cheese

  • 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
  • 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • Extra parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the diced chicken with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Toss well to coat evenly and allow the chicken to absorb the flavors before cooking.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large high-sided pan over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  3. Sauté Asparagus: Using the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the asparagus and sauté for about 2 minutes until tender but still crisp. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
  4. Sauté Onion and Toast Orzo: Add chopped onion to the pan and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the orzo pasta and finely chopped garlic, cooking and stirring frequently until the orzo begins to toast and develop a light golden color, about 3 minutes.
  5. Simmer Orzo in Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to incorporate browned bits. Bring to a simmer, cover with a lid, and cook for about 7 minutes, stirring halfway through, until most of the liquid is absorbed.
  6. Add Remaining Ingredients: Uncover the pan and stir in the cooked chicken, asparagus, half-and-half or milk, grated parmesan cheese, baby spinach, and thyme. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring gently until the spinach is wilted, the cheese is melted, and everything is heated through.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Serve the orzo mixture immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and extra parmesan cheese for added cheesy flavor.

Notes

  • Using low-sodium chicken broth helps control the salt content of the dish.
  • Lightly toasting the orzo elevates its flavor by adding a subtle nutty aroma.
  • Microwaving the broth before adding to the pan can speed up cooking time.
  • Substitute half-and-half with milk or a plant-based alternative if preferred.
  • Ensure not to overcook asparagus to maintain its crisp texture.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: chicken orzo, high protein chicken recipe, one pan chicken dinner, creamy orzo pasta, healthy chicken dinner, easy stovetop chicken recipe

Find it online: https://annakocht.com/juicy-high-protein-chicken-orzo-recipe/