How to Make High Protein Mediterranean Chicken Orzo

This Post Contains Affiliate Links. Please Read Our Disclosure for Full Information.

Hey food lovers! 🌿 If you’re looking for a hearty, high-protein meal that’s both nutritious and packed with Mediterranean flavors, this High Protein Mediterranean Chicken Orzo is the perfect dish for you. With tender grilled chicken, nutrient-rich orzo pasta, and a tangy dressing, it’s a complete meal that’s both filling and healthy. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish!

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 2 chicken breasts 🍗 (boneless, skinless)
• 1 cup dry orzo pasta 🍝
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 🌱
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes 🍅 (halved)
• 1/4 cup red onion 🧅 (sliced thin)
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives 🫒 (pitted and chopped)
• 1/2 cucumber 🥒 (diced)
• 1/4 cup feta cheese 🧀 (crumbled)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley 🌿 (chopped)

For the Mediterranean Dressing:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil 🌱
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar 🍷
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice 🍋
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 🌿
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 🧄
• Salt and pepper to taste 🧂

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Grill or pan-sear the chicken until it’s cooked through (about 6-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness). Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Orzo

While the chicken is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to the package instructions. Once the orzo is al dente, drain it and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 3: Prepare the Mediterranean Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This dressing will tie all the Mediterranean flavors together and add a zesty kick to the dish.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, grilled chicken pieces, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese. Pour the Mediterranean dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are coated with the dressing.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top the salad with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. You can serve this dish immediately or chill it in the fridge for a couple of hours for a refreshing cold salad. This meal is perfect for meal prep, as it keeps well in the fridge for a few days.

Why I Love This High Protein Mediterranean Chicken Orzo:

This recipe is the perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbs, all packed into one delicious and vibrant dish. The grilled chicken adds lean protein, while the orzo pasta is satisfying and light. The combination of fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and a tangy Mediterranean dressing makes each bite full of flavor.

Amazon Affiliate Links for Your Ingredients & Tools:

• Chicken Breasts: Find fresh chicken breasts here
• Orzo Pasta: Buy orzo pasta here
• Kalamata Olives: Shop for Kalamata olives
• Olive Oil: Buy high-quality olive oil
• Feta Cheese: Shop for creamy feta cheese

Final Thoughts:

This High Protein Mediterranean Chicken Orzo is not only healthy but incredibly flavorful and easy to make. Whether you’re preparing it for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, it’s a versatile dish that will satisfy your hunger and your taste buds. Give it a try, and enjoy the fresh Mediterranean flavors in every bite!