Craving a nutritious, flavorful meal that’s quick to whip up on a busy weeknight? High Protein Chicken Orzo is your go-to solution! This One Pot Chicken Orzo dish combines tender, juicy chicken with creamy orzo pasta, fresh asparagus, spinach, and a light Parmesan sauce, creating a wholesome meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Packed with lean protein and vibrant veggies, it’s a standout among Easy Orzo Recipes, perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or a post-workout refuel. With only one pan to clean, this High Protein Chicken Orzo delivers big on taste and convenience.
In this post, we’ll guide you through the simple steps to make High Protein Chicken Orzo, share customization tips, and suggest serving ideas to elevate this healthy, creamy dish. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love High Protein Chicken Orzo
- Protein-Packed: Lean chicken and orzo provide a hefty dose of protein to keep you full and support muscle recovery.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in 30 minutes with minimal cleanup, ideal for Easy Orzo Recipes lovers.
- Healthy and Wholesome: Loaded with fresh veggies and herbs for a nutrient-rich meal.
- One-Pan Wonder: This One Pot Chicken Orzo recipe means less dishwashing and more time to enjoy your meal.
- Kid-Friendly Flavors: The creamy Parmesan sauce and tender chicken appeal to even picky eaters.
Ingredients for High Protein Chicken Orzo
High Protein Chicken Orzo comes together with simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious Easy Orzo Recipe.
Chicken and Orzo
- Chicken Breasts (1.5 lbs, boneless, skinless, cubed into 1-inch pieces): Lean and perfect for quick cooking.
- Orzo Pasta (8 oz, dry): A small, rice-shaped pasta that soaks up the creamy sauce.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp, divided): For browning the chicken and sautéing veggies.
- Chicken Broth (2.5 cups, low or no salt): Adds flavor and cooks the orzo.
Vegetables and Seasoning
- Asparagus (2 cups, cut into 1-inch pieces): Adds a crisp, fresh texture.
- Spinach (2 cups, fresh): Wilts into the dish for extra nutrients.
- Yellow Onion (1/2 cup, chopped, about 1/2 medium onion): Provides a savory base.
- Garlic (1 tbsp, minced, about 3 cloves): Enhances the aroma and flavor.
- Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Seasons the chicken.
- Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 tsp): For a subtle spicy kick.
- Salt (1/4 tsp): For seasoning.
- Black Pepper (1/2 tsp): Adds depth.
- Fresh Thyme (2 sprigs, or 1/4 tsp dried thyme): Brings earthy, herby notes.
- Half and Half (1/3 cup): Creates a light, creamy sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/3 cup, freshly grated): Adds nutty, savory richness.
Garnish
- Fresh Parsley (chopped): For a vibrant, fresh finish.
- Extra Parmesan (grated): For an indulgent touch.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
This One Pot Chicken Orzo recipe is a breeze to make, with all components cooked in a single pan for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup. Follow these steps to create High Protein Chicken Orzo.
1: Season and Cook the Chicken
- Season Chicken: In a small bowl, toss cubed chicken with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to coat evenly.
- Brown Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, high-sided skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides. Remove chicken to a bowl and set aside.
2: Sauté the Asparagus
- Cook Asparagus: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté asparagus pieces for 2 minutes until tender but still crisp. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
3: Cook the Orzo Base
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for 3 minutes until softened. Add orzo and minced garlic, cooking for another 3 minutes until the orzo is lightly toasted.
- Add Broth: Pour in chicken broth, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the pan. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 7 minutes, stirring halfway, until most of the liquid is absorbed.
4: Combine and Finish
- Add Ingredients: Stir in the cooked chicken, asparagus, half and half, Parmesan cheese, spinach, and thyme. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts and the dish is heated through.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed.
5: Serve
Serve High Protein Chicken Orzo immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan. Pair with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Chef’s Tips for Perfect High Protein Chicken Orzo
- Orzo Cooking Time: Check the orzo package for exact cook times (typically 7-9 minutes). Smaller orzo may cook faster.
- Speedy Prep: Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken and fold it in at the end to make this Easy Orzo Recipe even quicker.
- Creamy Texture: Add a splash of extra broth or half and half if the sauce thickens too much.
- Veggie Boost: Double the spinach or add other veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for a heartier One Pot Chicken Orzo.
- Prevent Sticking: Stir the orzo occasionally while simmering to avoid it sticking to the pan.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate High Protein Chicken Orzo with these serving ideas to suit any occasion:
- Garnishes: Sprinkle with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Side Salad: Pair with a kale salad or mixed greens with a light vinaigrette to complement the creamy sauce.
- Bread Pairing: Serve with a crusty baguette, artisan bread, or garlic toast to soak up the sauce.
- Extra Veggies: Add roasted Brussels sprouts, broccoli, or asparagus on the side for a nutrient-packed meal.
- Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, or a refreshing iced tea for a perfect match with this Easy Orzo Recipe.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
High Protein Chicken Orzo is great for leftovers, though it’s best enjoyed fresh. Here’s how to store and reheat:
- Store: Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The sauce may thicken as it sits.
- Reheat: Warm in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or half and half to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between.
- Freeze: Freezing is not recommended, as orzo can become mushy. If necessary, freeze chicken and veggies separately for up to 1-2 months and cook fresh orzo when reheating.
- Meal Prep Tip: For meal prep, store in portioned containers and reheat with a drizzle of olive oil to maintain moisture in this One Pot Chicken Orzo.
Variations and Substitutions
Customize High Protein Chicken Orzo to fit your taste or dietary needs:
- Protein Swap: Use boneless chicken thighs, chicken tenders, or pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for a quicker Easy Orzo Recipe.
- Veggie Options: Swap asparagus for zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for variety.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free orzo, but monitor cooking time closely to avoid a gummy texture.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute half and half with coconut milk and use dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free High Protein Chicken Orzo.
- Cheese Twist: Sprinkle with feta instead of Parmesan for a tangy flavor, or mix in a bit of cream cheese for extra creaminess.
- Greens Swap: Replace spinach with arugula or kale for a different flavor profile in this One Pot Chicken Orzo.
FAQs About High Protein Chicken Orzo
Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, small pasta shapes like couscous, ditalini, or small shells can work, but adjust the broth and cooking time accordingly.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free orzo or a gluten-free small pasta to keep this Easy Orzo Recipe gluten-free. Check that your broth is also gluten-free.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, substitute half and half with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream and use dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast.
How can I add more protein?
Add chickpeas, edamame, or a sprinkle of hemp seeds to boost the protein content of this High Protein Chicken Orzo.
Is this good for meal prep?
Absolutely! Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of broth to maintain creaminess in this One Pot Chicken Orzo.
More summer dinner recipe ideas you’ll love
- Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken
- 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken
- French Dip Sliders
- Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil
- Meatball Sub
Conclusion
High Protein Chicken Orzo is the ultimate weeknight hero, blending creamy, protein-packed goodness with vibrant veggies in a single pan. Perfect for busy dinners, meal prep, or a healthy indulgence, this One Pot Chicken Orzo is as easy to make as it is delicious. Customize it with your favorite veggies or seasonings, and enjoy a wholesome, satisfying meal that everyone will love. Try it tonight and share your experience in the comments below!
Happy cooking!
High Protein Chicken Orzo
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenders cubed into 1” pieces
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoon olive oil divided
- ½ cup yellow onion chopped about 1/2 a medium onion
- 2 cups fresh asparagus spears cut into 1 inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic about 3 garlic cloves
- 8 ounces dry orzo
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth low or no salt
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme can sub 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- ⅓ cup half and half can sub milk
- ⅓ cup freshly grated parmesan
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for garnish
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine chicken chunks, garlic powder, salt, pepper and red pepper flakes, toss to coat.
- In a large high sided pan over medium high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and add the chicken. Cook for 10-12 minutes, until brown on all sides. Remove from the pan and set aside in a bowl.
- In the same pan, (no need to clean it!) add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the asparagus and sauté for 2 minutes, until tender but still crisp. Remove from the pan and set aside to the plate with the cooked chicken.
- Add the onion to the pan and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the orzo and garlic and cook until the orzo starts to toast slightly, another 3 minutes.
- Add in the broth and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally and scraping the bottom of the pan. (Tip: You can microwave your broth before adding to the pan to speed up cook time) Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 7 minutes, or until most of the liquid has been absorbed, stirring halfway.
- Stir in the cooked chicken, asparagus, half and half, parmesan, spinach and thyme. Heat for one to two minutes more until heated through and spinach is wilted.
- Serve immediately garnished with chopped parsley and extra grated parmesan.
Notes
- This dish is best when fresh. Leftovers tend to be drier, less creamy, and can clump together. For best quality, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days and reheat in a covered pot on the stove, over low heat, adding some extra broth to loosen it back up.
- There are different sizes of orzo pasta, and they may have different cooking times.The size most commonly found in the supermarkets around me cook in about 8 minutes. This recipe was made using Barilla orzo. Check the packaging of orzo for cook times and choose one with an 7-9 minute cook time.
- This orzo can be made with chunks of boneless skinless thighs, but you may need to adjust the cooking time for the chicken. To make this an even faster dish, you can skip the first 2 steps and use pulled or chopped cooked chicken folded in at the end.
- Other vegetables that would be good in this would be zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes and mushrooms.
- Chicken broth can be substituted with vegetable broth.
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