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Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo Recipe

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

5 from 13 reviews

This Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo recipe combines tender chicken breasts with vibrant sautéed vegetables and orzo pasta, all brought together with a tangy balsamic glaze. A quick and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (half of 1 teaspoon)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking chicken)

Vegetables & Pasta

  • 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

Seasonings & Garnish

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for vegetables)
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (remaining half)
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half the 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 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 cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Then 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 begin to soften. Stir in the orzo pasta, making sure it is well coated with the oil and vegetables.
  4. Add Liquid and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring 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 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 creates a light glaze.
  6. Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in balsamic vinegar and oregano for 30 minutes before cooking.
  • Feel free to substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter taste.
  • You can add other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms based on preference.
  • If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable broth.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: balsamic chicken, orzo recipe, chicken dinner, easy dinner, healthy chicken meal, one pan meal, veggie orzo

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