High Protein Mediterranean Chicken Orzo
High Protein Mediterranean Chicken Orzo is a delightful one-pan meal that brings the essence of Mediterranean flavors into your kitchen. This dish features tender chicken, creamy orzo pasta, and a vibrant medley of vegetables like cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach, all harmoniously blended with aromatic herbs and zesty lemon. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, it’s not just a recipe—it’s an experience that nourishes both body and soul. With its rich textures and balanced nutrition, this high-protein meal will quickly become a family favorite!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 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 in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and sauté seasoned chicken pieces until golden brown (about 5–7 minutes).
- Add minced garlic and lemon juice; cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2–3 minutes until they soften.
- Lower heat and fold in cooked orzo, spinach leaves, and sliced olives; mix gently until combined.
- Remove from heat, top with crumbled feta and parsley, then serve warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 70mg