Description
Satisfying and Nutritious: Discover the Delights of High Protein Chicken Orzo
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
- 4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
1. Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the cubed chicken with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
2. Sauté the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until lightly golden and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant and softened.
4. Add Orzo and Broth: Pour the orzo into the skillet, followed by the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo has absorbed most of the broth.
5. Incorporate Spinach and Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the spinach has wilted and the chicken is warmed through.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Taste the High Protein Chicken Orzo and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired, and savor every bite of this nutritious and delicious meal.
Notes
To ensure your High Protein Chicken Orzo turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:
– Adjust the seasoning to your personal taste preferences, adding more or less of the dried herbs and spices as desired.
– For a gluten-free option, swap the orzo for a gluten-free pasta or try using quinoa or riced cauliflower instead.
– Achieve the ideal texture by cooking the orzo just until it’s tender, but not mushy. Keep a close eye on it during the simmering process.
– Prepare the dish in advance for easy meal prep. Simply store the cooked High Protein Chicken Orzo in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 70mg