Indulge in this super speedy, protein-packed creamy chicken orzo! With succulent chicken and a rich tomato sauce, this dish is not only incredibly delicious but also boasts an impressive 50g of protein per serving, thanks to the cottage cheese and chicken. A truly irresistible meal that will keep you energised and satisfied!
from the jar of sundried tomato
boneless
full fat
Finely chop the red onion and sundried tomatoes. Grate the garlic cloves. Dice the boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a frying pan over a medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and sauté for 3 minutes until softened, stirring continuously.
Stir in the paprika, dried oregano, tomato puree, grated garlic, and sundried tomatoes for 1 minute. Add the diced chicken to the pan and cook for 5 minutes, or until the chicken has turned white.
Add the orzo, cottage cheese, and vegetable stock to the pan. Mix until all ingredients are well combined. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and cook for 15 minutes, stirring regularly to prevent sticking.
Once the liquid has reduced and the orzo is cooked, remove the lid. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Cook for a further minute, then serve immediately.
For an even quicker prep, use kitchen scissors to cut the chicken thighs directly into the pan.
If the orzo absorbs too much liquid before it's fully cooked, add a splash more vegetable stock or water until it reaches your desired consistency.
To enhance the flavour, you can add a pinch of chilli flakes along with the other seasonings for a subtle kick.