Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I was chopping vegetables in my kitchen, the fragrant aroma of fresh garlic and herbs filled the air, inviting a sense of comfort that only a home-cooked meal can provide. This Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo is all about embracing that cozy vibe while keeping it quick and simple, perfect for those busy evenings when time is tight. With just one pan and about 30 minutes to spare, you’ll create a delicious Mediterranean-inspired dish that brings together tender chicken, orzo pasta, and vibrant veggies drizzled in a tangy balsamic glaze. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also adaptable for gluten-free diets, making it a go-to option for anyone tired of takeout. Are you ready to savor a homemade masterpiece that puts a spin on weeknight dinners? Let’s dive in! Why is this recipe a must-try? One-Pan Wonder: This Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo is a total game changer! Cooking everything in a single pan not only saves time but ensures flavors meld beautifully, making cleanup a breeze. Adaptable for Everyone: Customize with your favorite vegetables, or go for a vegetarian twist by swapping chicken for chickpeas. Whatever your preference, this dish accommodates it without sacrificing taste. Speedy & Satisfying: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for those hectic weeknights when you crave a home-cooked meal. Just imagine a delicious dinner on the table in no time! Mediterranean Flair: Infused with tangy balsamic glaze and fresh herbs, each bite bursts with flavor, giving you that dreamy Mediterranean vibe right in your own kitchen. Healthy & Nourishing: Packed with protein and fiber, this recipe keeps you full and satisfied without feeling heavy. Plus, it’s gluten-free friendly for those choosing that route! So, why not explore more delightful dishes? Pair this with a crisp side salad or enjoy with a slice of crusty bread for the perfect meal experience! Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo Ingredients For the Chicken • Chicken Breasts – Boneless, skinless for the best texture and flavor. For the Orzo • Orzo Pasta – Adds bulk and texture; gluten-free pasta can be used as a substitute. • Chicken Broth – Deepens the flavor; vegetable broth or water with bouillon are lighter options. For the Vegetables • Cherry Tomatoes – Provide juiciness and sweetness; any small tomato variety works. • Zucchini – Adds moisture and veggies; consider seasonal substitutions like asparagus. • Bell Pepper – Offers a crunch and sweetness; any color works, or use other firm veggies. • Red Onion – Adds depth and mild sweetness; yellow onion can be a good alternative. For Flavor • Balsamic Vinegar – Creates that tangy glaze essential for the Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo. • Olive Oil – Necessary for cooking and flavor; avocado oil can be a substitute. • Garlic – Provides that aromatic touch; fresh is preferred, but garlic powder can suffice. • Dried Oregano – Adds herbal notes; can substitute with Italian seasoning if needed. • Salt and Pepper – Season to taste. For Garnish • Fresh Basil – Adds a refreshing brightness; parsley is a suitable substitute if unavailable. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo Step 1: Prepare Chicken Start by seasoning your boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the dried oregano. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a plate. Step 2: Sauté Vegetables In the same skillet, add another drizzle of olive oil if needed. Lower the heat to medium and add the chopped red onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent, then stir in 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to let the garlic burn. Step 3: Cook Orzo with Veggies Next, add the diced bell pepper and zucchini to the skillet. Stir and cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the veggies to soften slightly. After they’ve softened, mix in 1 cup of orzo pasta, stirring well to coat the pasta evenly with the flavorful vegetable mix. Step 4: Simmer Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth, stirring to incorporate all ingredients. Increase the heat to bring the broth to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover the pan and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Step 5: Finish Dish Once the orzo is cooked, slice the rested chicken and add it back to the skillet along with 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes and 3 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar. Stir everything together and heat for an additional 2-3 minutes until warmed through. The vibrant colors of the Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo will pop! Step 6: Serve Transfer your delicious Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo to serving plates and garnish with freshly chopped basil for a burst of flavor. Serve hot and enjoy the delectable combination of juicy chicken, tender orzo, and vibrant vegetables in this quick one-pan delight. Make Ahead Options Preparing the Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo ahead of time is a great way to save those precious minutes on busy weeknights! You can season the chicken and chop the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you could cook the orzo and sauté the veggies (without the chicken) up to 3 days ahead; simply refrigerate and reheat gently with a splash of broth before serving to restore moisture. When you’re ready to complete your meal, add the chicken, tomatoes, and balsamic vinegar to the pan, heat through, and enjoy a comforting dish that’s just as delicious as if it were made fresh! Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo Variations Feel free to get creative and adapt this dish to your taste, as the possibilities are endless! Gluten-Free: Swap orzo with a gluten-free pasta variety like quinoa or rice pasta for a similar texture without the gluten. Vegetarian Delight: Omit the chicken and use chickpeas or black beans instead. Pair with vegetable broth for a hearty meal that’s plant-based. Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or some freshly grated Parmesan cheese right before serving for a deliciously creamy finish. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when sautéing veggies for a delightful heat! Seasonal Veggies: Consider using asparagus or bell peppers based on what’s fresh and in season. Each veggie imparts a unique character and freshness. Herb Boost: Fresh thyme or rosemary can elevate flavors even more. Mix these herbs in with the garlic for an aromatic infusion you’ll love. Extra Flavor: Marinate chicken in balsamic vinaigrette a few hours prior to cooking for an enhanced flavor experience. This brings new depth to the recipe! For a Twist on Presentation: Serve in a hollowed-out bell pepper or zucchini boat for a fun and visually appealing dish that’s sure to impress. By trying out these variations, you can enjoy the classic Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo while giving it your own unique twist. And if you’re intrigued by other golden dishes, check out my links for delicious side options or further inspiration – like my Bbq Chicken Mac or Chicken Broccoli Savory! Expert Tips for Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo Pound the Chicken: Ensure uniform thickness by pounding the chicken breasts before cooking; this promotes even cooking and tenderness. Prevent Sticking: Stir the orzo regularly while it simmers to avoid any clumping; add a splash of broth if it absorbs too quickly. Vegetable Timing: Add heartier vegetables, like bell peppers, later in the cooking process to maintain their crunch and texture. Quality Counts: Use a high-quality balsamic vinegar to truly elevate the flavors in your Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo; it makes all the difference! Garnish Wisely: Fresh basil not only enhances presentation but also adds a pop of flavor. If unavailable, parsley is a good substitute for freshness. What to Serve with Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo To create a well-rounded meal that will delight both your taste buds and your guests, consider these delightful pairings. Garlic Bread: The buttery, toasted slices bring a comforting crunch, perfect for soaking up that tangy balsamic glaze. Mixed Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast, balancing the heartiness of the orzo. Grilled Asparagus: This vibrant veggie offers a delightful charred flavor that complements the chicken beautifully while providing a healthy crunch. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of caramelized sweet potatoes contrasts deliciously with the savory elements of the dish, enhancing flavor complexity. Lemon-Basil Quinoa: Adding a zesty quinoa dish adds another layer of freshness while keeping with the Mediterranean theme; it’s light yet nourishing. Sparkling Water with Citrus: A refreshing drink option, sparkling water infused with lemon or lime provides a bright, palate-cleansing element that pairs nicely. Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light chocolate mousse rounds off the meal with a sweet touch; its creamy texture perfectly contrasts the savory orzo. Rosemary Focaccia: Soft, herby bread enhances the Mediterranean vibe while being a delicious option to soak up the favored sauce from the orzo. Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, accentuates the flavors in the dish and pairs beautifully with the chicken and veggies. Storage Tips for Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo Room Temperature: Allow the Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo to cool completely before storing, but avoid leaving it out for more than 2 hours to prevent bacteria growth. Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore moisture. Freezer: If you’d like to keep the orzo for longer, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Reheating: When reheating, slowly warm the dish on the stovetop or in the microwave to maintain flavor and texture, stirring occasionally to avoid hot spots. Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo Recipe FAQs What type of chicken is best for this recipe? I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their tenderness and flavor. They cook evenly and absorb the delicious balsamic glaze beautifully. If you desire a richer taste, chicken thighs are a wonderful alternative! How should I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s essential to let the Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo cool completely before sealing it. When ready to eat, gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture. Can I freeze the Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo? Absolutely! You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. To do this, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator before reheating slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave. What should I do if the orzo is sticking together? If you notice that the orzo is clumping, it’s often due to insufficient stirring while it simmers. To fix it, add a splash of additional broth or water and give it a good stir over low heat until it breaks apart. Be sure to stir often during cooking to prevent this from happening again! Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? This recipe can easily be adapted for gluten-free diets by using gluten-free pasta. If you’re concerned about allergies, check all ingredients, especially the broth and any potential cross-contamination. For a vegetarian option, simply replace the chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable broth to keep everything delicious and hearty! What vegetables can I use as substitutes? Feel free to mix and match your favorite veggies! Zucchini can be replaced with asparagus or broccoli, and bell peppers can be swapped for carrots or snap peas. The more, the merrier when it comes to vibrant and colorful vegetables! Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo: Quick One-Pan Delight Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo blends tender chicken, orzo pasta, and vibrant veggies in a tangy glaze for a quick dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: MediterraneanCalories: 375 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken2 pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breastsFor the Orzo1 cup Orzo pasta gluten-free pasta can be used as a substitute3 cups Chicken broth vegetable broth or water with bouillon can be usedFor the Vegetables1 cup Cherry tomatoes halved1 cup Zucchini diced1 piece Bell pepper diced, any color1 piece Red onion choppedFor Flavor3 tablespoons Balsamic vinegar2 tablespoons Olive oil or avocado oil2 cloves Garlic minced1 teaspoon Dried oregano can substitute with Italian seasoning if neededSalt to tastePepper to tasteFor Garnish1/4 cup Fresh basil chopped Equipment Large skillet Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Balsamic Chicken & Veggie OrzoSeason the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the dried oregano. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove and let rest.In the same skillet, add red onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.Add diced bell pepper and zucchini, cooking for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened. Mix in orzo, stirring to coat.Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender and liquid is absorbed.Slice the rested chicken and add it back along with cherry tomatoes and balsamic vinegar. Stir and heat for 2-3 minutes.Serve the dish garnished with fresh basil. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 375kcalCarbohydrates: 48gProtein: 25gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 650mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg NotesPound chicken for uniform thickness and even cooking. Stir orzo regularly and use quality balsamic vinegar for enhanced flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
