New week, new meal to share. I saw this recipe online a a few weeks back via Kale Junkie. It's essentially marry me chicken with orzo pasta. I've made marry me chicken many, many times. It's one of those old faithful Pinterest recipes found all over the internet. The addition of orzo and bite size chicken is truly a short cut I appreciate.
By now we know, I track my protein intake by tracking macros. My goal is essentially high protein with good (fiber) carbs and less fats. The original recipe will be posted followed by my reduced modifications (pretty much less cream and cheese). Lets get to it...
INGREDIENTS:
1.5 lbs boneless/skinless chicken breast, cubed
1 cup orzo
2 1/2 cups chicken broth (water with bouillon works too)
1/4 cup cream
1/4 cup parmesan
2 cups raw baby spinach
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 cup sun dried tomatoes
2 tsp Italian seasoning
2 tsp paprika
salt & pepper to taste
PREP
In a large deep skillet, add olive oil over medium high heat.
When pan is hot, add chicken, followed by seasonings; salt, pepper, paprika and Italian seasoning. Sauté and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until browning begins.
Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
Add sun dried tomatoes and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes.
Add orzo, stir well and add broth. Cover, reduce heat and cook for about 12 to 15 minutes, until liquid is near full absorption. Uncover and stir at least once to prevent orzo sticking. If you feel it needs more liquid, add about 1/4 cup.
Once orzo is cooked through, add spinach, stir well and cook for about a minute.
When spinach has reduced, remove from heat, add cream, parmesan and combine well. Serve as is or with additional parmesan as garnish.
**Note: I strongly feel this recipe can stand alone without cream or cheese for an ultra light version. I tasted it before adding those ingredients and liked it. My next attempt, I'm going to omit both and test it on my family for final approval. If you try it before me, let me know how it worked.
Enjoy!
Xx Dee
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