Description
Easy One-Pan Balsamic Chicken Orzo with Vegetables is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner recipe perfect for busy weeknights. This dish combines tender chicken breasts, orzo pasta, and fresh vegetables sautéed in a balsamic glaze, all cooked in one convenient skillet for minimal cleanup and maximum taste. Ideal for those seeking a nutritious, satisfying meal that comes together in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup zucchini, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, sliced
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or basil
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and red onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes until vegetables start to soften. Pour in the balsamic vinegar and chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pan.
- Add the orzo pasta and dried herbs to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Cover the skillet and simmer on low heat for 10-12 minutes or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet. Stir to coat everything with the balsamic glaze. Continue cooking uncovered for another 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley.
Notes
- Use high-quality balsamic vinegar for the best flavor.
- Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or herbs according to your taste.
- You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for variety.
- Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 480 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 100mg