Description
Creamy High Protein Mediterranean Chicken Orzo Casserole loaded with tender chicken, orzo, spinach, roasted red peppers, cherry tomatoes, and three cheeses. A wholesome Mediterranean-inspired dinner packed with 41g of protein per serving and perfect for meal prep or family dinners.
Ingredients
500 g boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1½ cups (300 g) dry orzo
2½ cups (600 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup (225 g) low-fat cottage cheese
½ cup (170 g) plain Greek yogurt
1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
1½ cups baby spinach
1½ cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
½ cup roasted red peppers (chopped)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp lemon zest
100 g feta cheese (crumbled)
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Optional: fresh basil leaves, red chili flakes, microgreens, lemon wedges, extra feta crumbles
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes until lightly browned.
3. Stir in the garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, chicken broth, mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and lemon zest until smooth.
5. Stir the dry orzo into the cheese mixture until evenly coated.
6. Fold in the cooked chicken, baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, and roasted red peppers.
7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Cover tightly with foil.
8. Bake for 35 minutes. Remove the foil, stir gently, then sprinkle the feta cheese and additional Parmesan evenly over the top.
9. Return to the oven uncovered and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the orzo is tender and the cheese is lightly golden.
10. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and your favorite optional toppings.
Notes
Use freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan for the creamiest texture.
Do not overcook the chicken during the first step since it will continue cooking in the oven.
Allow the casserole to rest before serving so the sauce thickens.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.
Add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to keep the casserole creamy.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 50 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean