There’s something so comforting about a bowl of orzo—tiny pasta pearls that cradle every bite of flavor, especially when paired with tender chicken and a medley of vibrant veggies. I first fell in love with this dish on a chilly evening when I needed something hearty yet effortless, a meal that felt like a warm hug after a long day. This High Protein Chicken Orzo is exactly that—nourishing, protein-packed, and bursting with textures that make every spoonful a delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the magic of this dish. Here’s what you’ll need to create this cozy masterpiece:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast – Lean, protein-rich, and quick to cook. You could also use thighs for extra juiciness.
• 1 cup orzo pasta – The star of the show! Its rice-like shape makes it perfect for absorbing flavors.
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth – Adds depth and keeps the dish from drying out.
• 1 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing and adding a touch of richness.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Because every great dish starts with garlic.
• 1 small onion, diced – A sweet, aromatic base.
• 1 bell pepper, diced – I love red for sweetness, but any color works.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – They burst with juicy flavor as they cook.
• 1 tsp dried oregano – Earthy and fragrant.
• ½ tsp smoked paprika – A hint of warmth and depth.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for balancing flavors.
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional) – For a creamy, tangy finish.
• Fresh parsley, chopped – A bright pop of color and freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s bring this dish to life! Follow these simple steps for a foolproof meal:

1. Prep the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and let it rest before slicing.
2. Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add a drizzle more oil if needed, then toss in the onion and bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Toast the orzo: Add the orzo to the skillet and stir for a minute or two until lightly toasted—this enhances its nutty flavor.
4. Simmer with broth: Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the finishing touches: Once the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, stir in the cherry tomatoes and sliced chicken. Let everything warm through for a couple of minutes.
6. Serve with love: Sprinkle with crumbled feta (if using) and fresh parsley. A squeeze of lemon would be divine here too!

And just like that, you’ve got a wholesome, protein-packed meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple. Stay tuned for pro tips, serving suggestions, and more in the next part!

There’s something so comforting about a bowl of chicken orzo—tender pasta, juicy chicken, and a creamy sauce that ties it all together. But this version? It’s packed with protein, making it both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving it for a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to become a fast favorite.

Pro Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

Want to make this dish even better? Here are a few tricks and tweaks to customize it to your taste:

• Boost the protein: Swap the chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a plant-based twist.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or Greek yogurt at the end for extra richness.
• Veggie-loaded: Toss in spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers for added color and nutrients.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free orzo or quinoa instead of traditional orzo.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for a little heat.

What to Serve With High Protein Chicken Orzo

This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, here are a few pairings that work beautifully:

• A crisp green salad with a lemony vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or crusty sourdough for dipping
• Roasted asparagus or broccoli for extra greens
• A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to keep them tasting fresh:

• Storage: Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
• Freezing: While orzo can get a bit soft after freezing, you can freeze this dish for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta?
Absolutely! If you don’t have orzo, small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice will work well.

How can I make this dairy-free?
Skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Sauté the chicken first, then add the orzo and broth. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, then stir in the remaining ingredients.

Is this dish kid-friendly?
Definitely! The mild flavors and small pasta shape make it a hit with little ones. You can even sneak in extra veggies if needed.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like a meal that’s both comforting and nourishing, and this high-protein chicken orzo checks all the boxes. Whether you’re cooking for one, meal prepping for the week, or serving a crowd, this dish is versatile, easy to customize, and downright delicious. So grab your favorite pot, toss in those simple ingredients, and let the aroma of garlic, herbs, and tender chicken fill your kitchen. Happy cooking!