High Protein Creamy Parmesan Orzo

Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this High Protein Creamy Parmesan Orzo, a one-pan wonder that's as comforting as it is nutritious. Featuring tender bites of juicy chicken breast, velvety orzo pasta cooked to perfection in savory chicken broth, and a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, this dish achieves the perfect balance of creamy indulgence and high-protein satisfaction. Fresh spinach and a splash of zesty lemon juice bring brightness to the dish, while optional red pepper flakes add a hint of heat for those who like a little spice. Ready in just 40 minutes, this easy recipe is ideal for busy nights, offering a flavorful, protein-packed meal that will have your family asking for seconds. Serve it with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan for a restaurant-quality finish! Keywords: high protein dinner, creamy orzo recipe, chicken and orzo, easy one-pan meals, quick dinner ideas.

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 cups spinach, fresh
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

Step 3

Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

Step 5

Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until lightly golden.

Step 6

Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 7

Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and simmer for about 10 minutes or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the broth.

Step 8

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the fresh spinach, stirring to incorporate.

Step 9

Add the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Stir until the cheese is melted and the orzo is creamy.

Step 10

If desired, sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Step 11

Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1979.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2188.0

Total Fat 72.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 24.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.4g
Cholesterol 424.2mg	0%
Sodium 5453.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 179.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 20.1g	0%
Total Sugars 12.0g
Protein 206.6g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1369.1mg	0%
Iron 18.0mg	0%
Potassium 3820.8mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 29.8%

Protein: 37.6%

Carbs: 32.6%