Description

A flavorful Pesto Chicken Orzo Box made with tender chicken, basil pesto, orzo, cherry tomatoes, and smooth cottage cheese alternatives. A convenient meal prep option with balanced protein and rich herb flavor.

Ingredients

1.25 lbs chicken breast cut into bite sized pieces

1 1/3 cups orzo

1/2 cup pesto made with basil garlic olive oil and Cabot or Tillamook cheese

3/4 cup cherry tomatoes

3 cups chicken broth

4 tbsp cottage cheese from Good Culture or Nancy’s

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F then lightly grease four four cup glass bowls and set them on a large baking sheet

Add one third cup orzo to each bowl and spread evenly

Divide the chicken pieces among the bowls placing equal amounts in each container

Spoon one to two tablespoons of pesto into every bowl and stir to coat the chicken and orzo

Add a handful of cherry tomatoes to each bowl then pour in three quarter cup chicken broth and stir again

Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for thirty five to forty minutes until chicken reaches 165 degrees and orzo is tender

Remove from the oven and let the bowls rest for five to seven minutes then stir in one to two tablespoons of cottage cheese if desired

Cover and refrigerate for later use

Notes

Using one to one and a half pounds of chicken gives four balanced portions

Homemade pesto with basil garlic olive oil and Cabot or Tillamook cheese provides richer flavor

Whipped cottage cheese offers a smoother texture and blends easily into the warm orzo

Add extra broth before baking if you prefer softer pasta

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American