High Protein Mediterranean Chicken Orzo
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the High Protein Mediterranean Chicken Orzo, a dish that promises to become your go-to for busy weeknights. This recipe features tender chicken pieces enveloped in creamy orzo pasta, complemented by fresh spinach, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lemon finish. Not only is it quick to prepare—taking only 35 minutes from start to finish—but it’s also packed with wholesome ingredients that will satisfy both adults and kids alike. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this colorful dish brings everyone together around the table, ensuring a delightful dining experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup baby spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook orzo as per package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil; add to skillet and cook until golden brown (5-7 minutes).
- Squeeze in lemon juice and add minced garlic; sauté for an additional minute.
- Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Lower the heat to medium; mix in cooked orzo, spinach, and olives until spinach wilts.
- Remove from heat and top with feta cheese and parsley before serving warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 445
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 80mg