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Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo Recipe

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

5 from 17 reviews

A quick and flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender balsamic-glazed chicken breasts served over orzo pasta cooked with vibrant sautéed vegetables. This easy recipe combines a tangy balsamic vinegar finish with fresh basil for a deliciously balanced dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano, divided
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

Orzo and Vegetables

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 red onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasoning and Garnish

  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

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

Notes

  • Use chicken broth for extra flavor, or substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter option.
  • Ensure the chicken is cooked fully to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
  • You can swap orzo for another small pasta like couscous or quinoa for variety.
  • Adjust balsamic vinegar quantity to taste for more or less tang.
  • This dish reheats well in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep the orzo moist.
  • For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free orzo or swap with rice or quinoa.

Nutrition

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

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