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High-Protein Lemon Chicken Orzo
Ingredients
- 2boneless
skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tspsalt-free italian seasoning
divided, such as mrs. dash
- ½ tspsalt
divided
- 3 tbspextra-virgin olive oil
divided
- 1 mediumshallot
finely chopped, about ⅓ cup
- 6 mediumcloves garlic
minced, about 2 tablespoons
- 2 tspchopped fresh rosemary
- ¼ tspcrushed red pepper
- 1 ½ cwhole-wheat orzo
8 ounces
- 3 clower-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cheavy cream
- 1package baby spinach
- ½ cgrated parmesan cheese
- 2 tspgrated lemon zest
plus more for garnish
- 2 tbsplemon juice
- torn fresh basil leaves for garnish
optional
Directions
- 1
Place 2 chicken breasts on a cutting board and slice in half horizontally into 4 cutlets. Pat the chicken dry and sprinkle both sides with 1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning and ¼ teaspoon salt.
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- 2
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Arrange the chicken in the pan in a single layer; cook, undisturbed, until browned on the underside and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 160°F, 4 to 5 minutes per side. Transfer to a clean cutting board; do not wipe the pan clean.
- 3
Reduce heat to medium-low and add the remaining 2 tablespoons oil. Add chopped shallot, minced garlic, 2 teaspoons rosemary and ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper; cook, stirring constantly, until the shallot is softened, 1 to 2 minutes. Add 1½ cups orzo; cook, stirring often, until lightly toasted, about 1 minute.
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- 4
Add 3 cups broth, ½ cup cream and the remaining ¼ teaspoon salt, stirring and scraping up any browned bits; bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and gradually stir in spinach until just wilted, about 2 minutes. Stir in ½ cup Parmesan, 2 teaspoons lemon zest and 2 tablespoons lemon juice. Spread into an even layer.
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- 5
Slice the chicken cutlets. Arrange the sliced chicken on top of the orzo mixture in a single layer. Cover the skillet and let stand until the chicken is warmed through, about 3 minutes. Garnish with lemon zest and/or basil, if desired.
High-Protein Lemon Chicken Orzo
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About this Recipe
Searching for a deeply satisfying, fresh-tasting dinner that's also packed with protein? This High-Protein Lemon Chicken Orzo is your answer for a comforting weeknight classic. It’s designed to bring vibrant flavors and hearty nourishment to your table, perfect for busy evenings when you crave a cozy, yet refined meal.
What makes this High-Protein Lemon Chicken Orzo a go-to is its harmonious blend of bright lemon and aromatic fresh rosemary, combined with the savory richness of garlic and Parmesan. Paired with tender orzo and lean chicken breasts, it’s a complete meal that feels both wholesome and indulgent, perfect for those evenings when you crave flavor without compromise.
Imagine a bowl filled with succulent pieces of chicken, nestled among creamy, rich orzo pasta. Each spoonful delivers a burst of fresh lemon zest and fragrant rosemary, balanced by the gentle warmth of crushed red pepper and the savory depth of Parmesan. The delicate baby spinach adds a touch of vibrant color and an earthy counterpoint, while a generous half cup of heavy cream ensures a lusciously smooth texture. This dish offers a beautifully balanced taste that’s both hearty and surprisingly bright, with 541 calories per serving to keep you satisfied.
While this recipe celebrates the classic combination of lemon and rosemary, you can easily adapt it. For an extra vegetable boost, consider folding in additional tender greens like kale alongside the spinach. If you're out of fresh rosemary, a pinch of dried thyme could offer a similar aromatic note, though fresh is always preferred for its vibrant perfume. Want to make it vegetarian? Swap the chicken for cannellini beans or a plant-based chicken alternative to maintain a high-protein profile.
This comforting High-Protein Lemon Chicken Orzo is perfect as a standalone dinner, offering a complete meal in one bowl. Garnish with extra lemon zest and torn fresh basil leaves for an inviting presentation that's ideal for family dinners or a cozy night in.