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Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo Recipe

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

5.3 from 10 reviews

This Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo recipe combines tender chicken breasts with colorful vegetables and flavorful orzo pasta, all coated in a tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight meal, it’s packed with fresh ingredients and comes together in under 40 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano (divided)

Vegetables & Pasta

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

Liquids & Oils

  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Garnish

  • Fresh basil leaves

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts 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 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside to rest.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped red onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in 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, cooking for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. Pour in the orzo pasta and stir to coat the pasta evenly 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 the pan, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  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 warmed through and the balsamic vinegar forms a light glaze over the dish.
  6. Serve: Remove the pan from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately while the dish is hot and enjoy.

Notes

  • Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
  • You can substitute vegetable broth to make this recipe vegetarian by omitting chicken and adding more veggies.
  • For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free orzo or substitute with quinoa or rice.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if the dish seems dry.

Nutrition

Keywords: balsamic chicken, orzo pasta recipe, easy chicken dinner, healthy weeknight meal, chicken and vegetables, balsamic glaze, quick dinner idea

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