High Protein Chicken Orzo

Introduction

For a meal that’s as hearty as it is healthy, this High Protein Chicken Orzo delivers unmatched flavor and great nutrition in every bite. This dish is a perfect weeknight dinner, packed with lean protein, satisfying orzo pasta, and plenty of fresh vegetables. The one-pan method means minimal cleanup, and the velvety sauce ties it all together, making it a crowd-pleaser for friends, family, and meal preppers alike.

What Makes This High Protein Chicken Orzo Stand Out?

The magic of this recipe lies in its balance: juicy chicken breast for muscle-building protein, al dente orzo for comforting carbs, and a medley of crisp vegetables for color, crunch, and all-important micronutrients. The savory, herby sauce infuses every ingredient, creating a complex, mouthwatering taste in under 35 minutes.

Prepping Chicken & Veggies the Easy Way

Start by prepping your chicken breasts and vegetables. Use a Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper for speedy, perfectly uniform diced onions, peppers, and carrots. For the chicken, lay it on a stable surface like the Bamboo Cutting Boards for Kitchen, Set of 3 before cubing to your desired size. Keeping your ingredients evenly cut ensures quick, even cooking and a pleasant eating experience.

Cooking Everything to High-Protein Perfection

Grab your favorite nonstick skillet, such as the SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch, and sear the chicken until golden. Then, sauté your vegetables until fragrant before adding your orzo and broth. Keeping a close eye on the temperature and doneness, use the ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer for Cooking for peace of mind—especially if aiming for juicy, safe-to-eat chicken.

As the orzo simmers, stir frequently so nothing sticks, and finish with lemon zest, herbs, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. This final flourish brightens the dish and brings all the flavors together.

Serving and Storing Your Chicken Orzo

Dish up your High Protein Chicken Orzo while it’s steaming hot. If meal prepping, portion it out in Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, Set of 5—ideal for keeping the orzo moist and the flavors locked in. This makes for easy, protein-rich lunches all week long.

A quick, refreshing side salad or roasted broccoli pairs beautifully, or you can toss in extra greens like spinach at the end of cooking. For an on-the-go option, the Bentgo Salad Container – 54 oz Bowl keeps everything fresh and convenient.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This recipe yields about 4 generous servings, each packed with roughly 38g protein, 45g carbs, and 9g fat, making it well-suited for muscle recovery, balanced eating, and busy lifestyles. It’s a filling, energizing dish to fuel your day.

High Protein Chicken Orzo (Recap)

This High Protein Chicken Orzo brings together lean chicken breast, tender orzo, and plenty of veggies in a creamy, herbed sauce—all with minimal fuss. Quick, protein-rich, and endlessly customizable, it’s a nutritious meal everyone will love.

Instructions

1. On a sturdy bamboo cutting board, dice chicken and chop your vegetables using the Mueller vegetable chopper for speed and uniformity.
2. Heat olive oil in a nonstick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden, about 5–6 minutes. Use the ThermoPro digital meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove chicken and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add diced bell pepper, onion, and carrot. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and orzo pasta; cook 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in chicken broth, oregano, thyme, and reserved chicken. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer on low for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is just tender and most liquid is absorbed.
5. Stir in lemon zest, juice, spinach (if using), and Parmesan cheese. Cook another minute until spinach wilts and cheese melts. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately, or portion into Rubbermaid storage containers for meal prep.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes