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One Pot High Protein Chicken Orzo

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A delicious and easy-to-make one-pot dish featuring tender chicken, creamy orzo, fresh asparagus, and spinach, packed with protein and perfect for a quick and healthy meal.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 1/2 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
  • 1/2 cup Yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cups Fresh asparagus spears, cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 tbsp Garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder
  • 2 cups Fresh spinach
  • 2 sprigs Fresh thyme
  • 2 1/2 cups Low-sodium chicken broth
  • 8 oz Dry orzo pasta
  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp Red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 tsp Salt
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil
  • 1/3 cup Half and half
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breasts and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 6-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from the pot and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, add the diced onion, garlic, and fresh thyme. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
  3. Add the asparagus to the pot and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the orzo pasta and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  5. Stir in the spinach and cooked chicken, followed by the half and half. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the spinach is wilted and the chicken is heated through.
  6. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Serve the orzo mixture topped with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese for garnish.

Notes

  • Feel free to swap the chicken with turkey for a leaner option.
  • If you prefer a creamier texture, add more half and half or a bit of heavy cream.
  • For added flavor, you can squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish before serving.

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