Healthy Eating Made Easy: Chicken Spinach Orzo– Discover the delicious and nutritious benefits of our Chicken Spinach Orzo recipe. This dish is designed to boost your health and wellness while delighting your taste buds. Packed with lean protein, wholesome grains, and nutrient-rich greens, it is a perfect addition to your healthy eating plan.
Chicken provides a high-quality protein source that supports muscle growth and repair, essential for maintaining a strong, healthy body. Orzo, a small pasta made from whole wheat, is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy without causing spikes in blood sugar levels. Spinach, the star of this dish, is loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and antioxidants, which are vital for boosting your immune system, improving skin health, and promoting overall wellness.
This Chicken Spinach Orzo is nutritious and incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights. The combination of tender chicken, al dente orzo, and fresh spinach, all brought together with a light, flavorful sauce, makes for a comforting and satisfying meal that you and your family will love.
Incorporating this wholesome dish into your diet can help you maintain a balanced and healthy lifestyle, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and enhancing your overall well-being. Plus, cooking at home lets you control the ingredients and portion sizes, ensuring you consume a balanced diet tailored to your specific health needs.
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For the Chicken:
Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Serves 4
- 2 Tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning
- 2 Tbsp white wine vinegar
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 20 ounces skinless boneless chicken thighs
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 Tbsp avocado oil
For the Orzo:
- 2 Tbsp vegan butter
- 1 cup yellow onion minced
- 1/2 cup coconut cream
- 2 1/2 cup low sodium chicken stock
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1 1/2 cups gluten-free orzo uncooked
- 5 oz baby spinach
- 4 oz vegan feta cheese
- juice of 1 lemon
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Whisk olive oil, vinegar, herbs, salt, garlic powder, and pepper in a shallow baking dish. Add chicken to the dish and toss in the seasoning. Set aside for 5 minutes. In an oven-safe skillet, sear the chicken on both sides until lightly brown (3-4 minutes per side). Set the chicken on a plate nearby. Heat the pan, and add butter.
Once melted, add the onion and salt. Saute for 7-8 minutes; add the cream and stock, and bring to a simmer. Stir in the orzo and spinach so the liquid covers all the orzo. Crumble the cheese over the top, and turn off the heat. Add the chicken into the orzo, transfer uncovered into the oven, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through. Add the lemon juice over the top before serving.