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High Protein Mediterranean Chicken Orzo Recipe

High Protein Mediterranean Chicken Orzo Recipe

High Protein Mediterranean Chicken Orzo Recipe is healthy, filling and full of fresh flavor. It is perfect for lunch or dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large chicken breasts diced
  • 1 cup whole wheat orzo
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/2 cup cucumber chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup kalamata olives sliced
  • 1/2 cup baby spinach
  • 1/3 cup feta cheese crumbled
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken

  • Season diced chicken with salt, pepper, oregano and paprika. Mix well so all pieces are evenly coated.

Heat the Pan

  • Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium heat. Make sure oil is warm before adding chicken.

Cook the Chicken

  • Add chicken pieces into hot pan. Cook for 6–8 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.

Remove and Set Aside

  • Take cooked chicken out of pan. Place on plate and keep covered to stay warm.

Toast the Orzo

  • In the same pan, add dry orzo. Stir for two minutes until slightly golden and lightly toasted.

Add Garlic

  • Add minced garlic to pan. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.

Add Broth

  • Pour chicken broth into pan carefully. Bring to gentle boil and stir occasionally.

Cook the Orzo

  • Reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes. Cook until orzo is soft and liquid absorbed.

Add Vegetables

  • Stir in cherry tomatoes, spinach, cucumber, olives and red onion. Cook for two minutes gently.

Combine Everything

  • Return cooked chicken to pan. Mix everything together well so flavors blend nicely.

Finish with Lemon and Feta

  • Add fresh lemon juice and sprinkle feta cheese on top. Stir lightly before serving warm.

Notes

  • Use grilled chicken for smoky flavor.
  • Add chickpeas for extra plant protein.
  • Use fresh basil for stronger herb taste.
  • Replace feta with goat cheese if preferred.
  • Add red chili flakes for mild heat.
  • Use low-fat feta to reduce calories.
  • Let the dish rest five minutes before serving.
Keyword High Protein Mediterranean Chicken Orzo Recipe