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Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo Recipe

Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo Recipe
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★★★★★

5.2 from 7 reviews

A simple and flavorful recipe featuring juicy balsamic-glazed chicken breasts served over tender orzo pasta mixed with sautéed fresh vegetables. This one-pan dish combines the sweetness of balsamic vinegar, the freshness of basil, and a colorful medley of veggies for a wholesome and satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Pasta and Broth

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth

Vegetables

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 red onion, chopped

Seasonings and Oils

  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, and half of the dried oregano. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6 to 7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped red onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it softens. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add Vegetables and Orzo: Add the diced bell pepper and zucchini to the pan, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly softened. Stir in the orzo pasta so it coats evenly with the oil and vegetables.
  4. Add Liquid and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  5. Finish the Dish: Slice the rested chicken breasts into strips. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, and the remaining dried oregano to the pan. Gently fold in the sliced chicken and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the tomatoes are warmed and the balsamic vinegar forms a light glaze over the dish.
  6. Serve: Remove from heat, garnish generously with fresh basil leaves, and serve immediately while hot for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ¾ inch) to ensure uniform cooking and prevent drying out.
  • Stir the orzo occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking; add extra chicken broth or water if the liquid absorbs too quickly before the pasta is tender.
  • Vegetable swaps such as asparagus, mushrooms, or yellow squash can be used based on season or personal preference.
  • Use a good-quality balsamic vinegar for a richer and well-balanced glaze.

Nutrition

Keywords: balsamic chicken, orzo pasta, easy chicken dinner, one-pan meal, balsamic glaze, healthy chicken recipe, sautéed vegetables

Find it online: https://islawhite.com/easy-balsamic-chicken-and-veggie-orzo-recipe/