Lately I’ve been craving meals that feel comforting and satisfying but still align with how I like to eat: simple, protein-forward, and made with (mostly) whole foods. And this Lemon Chicken Orzo checks all my boxes! It’s warm, cozy, a little creamy, and has that bright lemony flavor that keeps it from feeling too heavy.

I built this recipe with a few secret ingredients for a high-protein twist: bone broth, Banza orzo, and cottage cheese. Plus, everything comes together in one pan, the ingredients are simple, and the end result is delish (as always)! If you’re into lemony dishes, easy weeknight meals, or high-protein comfort food, this one’s for you.

Let’s get into the recipe…

High-Protein Lemon Chicken Orzo

Serves 4 | Protein: ~40g per serving

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken thighs
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 2 frozen garlic cubes)
• 1 box Banza Orzo
• 2 cups chicken bone broth
• 1/2 cup cottage cheese
• 2 lemons
• 2 cups spinach
• Salt & pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, combine chicken thighs, paprika, garlic powder and lemon pepper seasoning. Mix until thighs are evenly coated.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs and sear for about 5 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the onion and sauté for about 3 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another 30–60 seconds, just until fragrant.
4. Stir in the Banza rice and let it toast for 2–3 minutes, then pour in the bone broth. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and creamy.
5. Mix in the cottage cheese until fully incorporated, then add the spinach and the juice of one lemon. Stir just until the spinach wilts, then turn off the heat.
6. Nestle the chicken thighs back into the pan and top each with a lemon slice.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, serve warm, and enjoy!