Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo
This Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo is a delightful one-pan meal that combines juicy chicken, vibrant vegetables, and tender orzo pasta. With its zesty balsamic glaze, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners alike. In just 35 minutes, you can serve up a colorful plate that’s both satisfying and nutritious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for hectic weeknights.
- One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy the ease of cooking everything in one skillet, which means less cleanup!
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of balsamic vinegar, fresh veggies, and savory chicken creates a deliciously balanced meal.
- Versatile Meal: Customize with your choice of vegetables or add different herbs to suit your taste.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish is a great way to incorporate more veggies into your diet.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo, having the right tools on hand can enhance your cooking experience. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while ensuring even mixing.

Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
For the 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
For the Flavoring
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh basil for garnish
How to Make Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic along with cherry tomatoes, zucchini, bell pepper, and red onion.
- Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Step 3: Cook the Orzo
- Stir in orzo pasta and chicken broth.
- Bring to a boil; then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes until orzo is cooked through and most liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
- Drizzle with balsamic vinegar.
- Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
- Enjoy your delightful Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo!
How to Serve Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo
This Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.
Serve with Fresh Salad
- A light green salad made with mixed greens, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the chicken and orzo.
Add Crusty Bread
- Serve slices of warm crusty bread on the side for dipping into any leftover sauce or broth. It makes for a satisfying addition to the meal.
Garnish with Extra Basil
- Fresh basil not only adds color but also brings out the aromatic notes of the balsamic vinegar. Scatter extra leaves over each serving for a fresh touch.
Pair with Grated Cheese
- A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or feta cheese can elevate this dish. The creaminess balances the tanginess of the balsamic vinegar beautifully.
Top with Avocado Slices
- Creamy avocado adds a smooth texture and healthy fats. Place slices on top just before serving for added richness.
Drizzle with Extra Balsamic Glaze
- For a gourmet finish, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the top. This enhances both flavor and presentation, making it look restaurant-ready.
How to Perfect Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo
To ensure your Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo comes out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will add more flavor and nutrition compared to older produce. Choose vibrant, seasonal options for the best results.
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Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for food safety. Juicy chicken makes this dish shine.
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Monitor Orzo Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the orzo as it cooks; overcooking can lead to mushy pasta. Test it a minute or two before the package instructions suggest.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! You may want to adjust salt, pepper, or herbs based on your preferences—personalize it to suit your palate.
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Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to mix in other veggies like spinach or asparagus for variety and added nutrition. Just sauté them until tender alongside your other vegetables.
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Let it Rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking before serving. This helps all flavors meld together nicely.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo
Completing your meal with tasty side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options that pair well with Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo.
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Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed in garlic and olive oil provide a crunchy contrast to the soft orzo.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts add a nutty flavor that complements the balsamic chicken beautifully.
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Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with lemon juice and herbs offers additional protein and fiber while being light on the palate.
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Cucumber Tomato Salad: Chilled cucumber and tomato salad dressed in olive oil makes for a refreshing side that balances heartiness.
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Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli is easy to prepare and adds crucial vitamins while enhancing visual appeal.
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Sweet Potato Wedges: Roasted sweet potato wedges bring sweetness that offsets the tanginess of balsamic vinegar, creating a balanced plate.
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Cauliflower Rice: Light and fluffy cauliflower rice serves as an excellent low-carb alternative that absorbs flavors well.
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Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: A chickpea salad featuring olives, tomatoes, and parsley rounds out the meal with protein-rich goodness and vibrant flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking can be fun, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid when making Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo.
- Skipping the seasoning: Many people forget to season the chicken before cooking. This can lead to bland flavors. Always use salt, pepper, and herbs for a flavor boost.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can result in dry meat. Aim for 5–7 minutes per side or until fully cooked but still juicy.
- Not measuring ingredients properly: Eyeballing ingredients may seem convenient, but it could throw off the dish’s balance. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
- Ignoring the vegetable sizes: Cutting vegetables into uneven sizes can cause them to cook at different rates. Dice them uniformly for even cooking.
- Rushing the simmering time: Skipping the simmer time for orzo can lead to undercooked pasta. Allow it to absorb the broth fully for perfect texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Best if eaten within 2–3 months for best flavor and texture.
Reheating Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish with a splash of broth, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes or until warm, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet with a splash of broth until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions.
Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes! You can substitute other small pasta shapes like couscous or ditalini if you prefer.
How do I customize this Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo?
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach or broccoli. You can also swap chicken for turkey or beef for variety.
What should I serve with Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo?
This dish is great on its own but pairs well with fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. Just reheat when ready to eat!
Final Thoughts
Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo is not just quick and delicious; it’s also versatile! You can customize it with different vegetables or proteins based on your preferences. Try this recipe tonight and discover how easy weeknight dinners can be!
Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo
Whip up this Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo in just 35 minutes! A colorful one-pan meal that is perfect for busy weeknights. Try it today!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 red onion, chopped
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano; cook for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, bell pepper, and red onion for about 5 minutes.
- Add orzo and chicken broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 10–12 minutes.
- Return chicken to the skillet, drizzle with balsamic vinegar, and cook for another 2–3 minutes before serving with fresh basil.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 300g)
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 75mg