Introduction:
This Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo is a vibrant one-pan meal packed with juicy chicken, colorful vegetables, and tender orzo pasta. The splash of balsamic adds a tangy twist that brings it all together in just 35 minutes perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 red onion, chopped
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic, tomatoes, zucchini, bell pepper, and red onion for 5 minutes until tender.
- Stir in orzo and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes until orzo is cooked and liquid absorbed.
- Return chicken to the skillet, drizzle with balsamic vinegar, and cook for 2–3 minutes to combine flavors.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Variation
- Use boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness – Thighs tend to stay more tender and flavorful compared to chicken breasts. They also hold up well during simmering, absorbing the balsamic glaze beautifully.
- Swap orzo with couscous or quinoa – If you’re out of orzo or looking for a different grain texture, couscous cooks quickly and absorbs flavor well, while quinoa adds a protein boost and nutty flavor.
- Add leafy greens like spinach or kale at the end – Stir in a few handfuls of spinach or chopped kale during the last couple of minutes of cooking to boost the nutrient content and add vibrant color.
Cooking Notes
- Swap chicken breasts with thighs if you prefer a juicier cut.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in balsamic and garlic ahead of time.
- Feel free to toss in spinach or kale at the end for a green boost.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with crumbled feta or goat cheese – A sprinkle of tangy cheese just before serving enhances the balsamic glaze and adds creaminess and contrast.
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast – A slice of warm bread on the side makes it easy to soak up all the savory juices from the skillet.
- Pair with a fresh green salad – A simple salad with vinaigrette provides a crisp, refreshing counterbalance to the richness of the orzo and chicken.
Tips
- Marinate the chicken for deeper flavor – If you have time, marinate the chicken in olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and garlic for 30 minutes to intensify the flavor and tenderness.
- Deglaze the skillet with a splash of broth or balsamic – After cooking the chicken, use a splash of broth or vinegar to loosen those flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan they’re pure flavor!
- Garnish with fresh herbs for a bright finish – Don’t skip the basil! Fresh basil or even a touch of parsley adds a pop of color and a fragrant lift to the finished dish.
Prep Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you can! Simply skip the initial cooking step and add the shredded or sliced cooked chicken back into the skillet when adding the balsamic vinegar to warm through and absorb the flavors. -
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely. Omit the chicken and double the veggies, or use a plant-based chicken substitute. You can also toss in some canned chickpeas or white beans for added protein. -
What type of balsamic vinegar works best?
A high-quality aged balsamic gives the richest flavor with a balance of sweetness and tang. However, standard balsamic vinegar from the grocery store will still work well for everyday cooking. -
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container, and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth to loosen the orzo if needed.
Conclusion
This Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo is everything you want in a weeknight dinner simple, satisfying, and full of fresh flavor. The one-pan convenience makes cleanup a breeze, while the juicy chicken and colorful veggies make every bite feel hearty and wholesome. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s a dish that brings bold flavor with minimal effort. Try it once, and it’s bound to become a regular in your dinner rotation!
Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo is a vibrant one-pan meal packed with juicy chicken, colorful vegetables, and tender orzo pasta. The splash of balsamic adds a tangy twist that brings it all together in just 35 minutes perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 red onion, chopped
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic, tomatoes, zucchini, bell pepper, and red onion for 5 minutes until tender.
- Stir in orzo and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes until orzo is cooked and liquid absorbed.
- Return chicken to the skillet, drizzle with balsamic vinegar, and cook for 2–3 minutes to combine flavors.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- Swap chicken breasts with thighs if you prefer a juicier cut.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in balsamic and garlic ahead of time.
- Feel free to toss in spinach or kale at the end for a green boost.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Keywords: one-pan chicken, balsamic chicken, veggie orzo, weeknight dinner, skillet meal