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High Protein Mediterranean Chicken Orzo

High Protein Mediterranean Chicken Orzo

This Mediterranean Chicken Orzo combines tender chicken, fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lemon twist, all in a creamy orzo base. It's healthy, hearty, and brimming with flavor!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin recommended
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ 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
  • ½ cup black olives sliced
  • ¼ cup feta cheese crumbled
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Pot for cooking orzo
  • Colander

Method
 

  1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-9 minutes. Drain well in a colander and set aside, tossing with a tiny drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers but doesn't smoke. This temperature ensures a golden sear on the chicken.
  3. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil. Toss with your hands to coat evenly. Add to the hot skillet in a single layer and let cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to develop a golden crust, then stir occasionally for another 3-4 minutes until cooked through.
  4. Pour in the fresh lemon juice and add minced garlic. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden.
  5. Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices.
  6. Lower the heat to medium and add the cooked orzo, baby spinach leaves, and sliced black olives. Toss everything together gently for about 2 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and the flavors to meld.
  7. Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley on top. The residual heat will soften the feta slightly. Serve warm with extra lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For meal prep, portion into individual containers and reheat with a splash of water or olive oil. Can be frozen for up to 2 months. For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu.