One-Pan Balsamic Chicken Orzo

What better way to whip up a delicious, wholesome meal than with the comforting flavors of One-Pan Balsamic Chicken Orzo? This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, especially on busy weeknights when time is of the essence but I still want something packed with flavor and nutrition. Its unique blend of juicy chicken, tender orzo, and vibrant veggies, all tossed together with a savory balsamic glaze, creates a delightful one-pan experience that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe has that “wow” factor without demanding your entire afternoon in the kitchen.

Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

What sets this One-Pan Balsamic Chicken Orzo apart from the usual weeknight meals? For starters, it’s incredibly quick to prepare; you can have a hearty meal ready in under 30 minutes. This recipe is also budget-friendly, utilizing easily accessible ingredients like chicken, pasta, and seasonal vegetables. It’s versatility shines when you can easily adapt it based on whatever you have in your pantry or fridge.

Most importantly, it’s a hit with everyone—kids, adults, and even picky eaters will be pleased. As one happy home cook put it, "This dish is a total lifesaver! Fast to make and my kids keep asking for seconds. It’s officially a household favorite."

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

To bring your One-Pan Balsamic Chicken Orzo to life, here’s a quick overview of the steps:

1. Sauté garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
2. Cook diced chicken until browned and season with salt and pepper.
3. Stir in orzo, chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, and your favorite vegetables.
4. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer until the orzo absorbs the liquid and is tender.
5. Let it rest and garnish with fresh herbs.

Now you’re ready to gather your ingredients!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you jump into the kitchen, here’s what you’ll need for this delightful dish:

• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth (can substitute with vegetable broth)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 zucchini, diced (you can swap this for any preferred vegetable)
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Having everything assembled will make the cooking process seamless!

Step-by-Step Directions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps for a perfectly executed dish:

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant—about 30 seconds.
2. Add the diced chicken to the pan. Cook until it’s browned on all sides. Season it generously with salt and pepper.
3. Stir in the orzo, chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, and the vegetables. Make sure everything is well mixed.
4. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the orzo doesn’t stick. Keep cooking until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken up. Finally, garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Perfect Pairings for One-Pan Balsamic Chicken Orzo

This recipe shines on its own, but if you’re looking to elevate your meal, consider pairing it with a fresh, crisp salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. Homemade garlic bread also complements the dish nicely, perfect for soaking up any leftovers on your plate. And for a bit of crunch, a side of roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli works beautifully!

Best Way to Store One-Pan Balsamic Chicken Orzo

If you have leftovers (which are great for meal prep!), it’s essential to store them properly. Allow the chicken orzo to cool before transferring it to an airtight container; it can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. If you wish to freeze it, ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container and can last for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or stovetop, adding a dash of water or broth to restore moisture.

Pro Chef Tips

Looking to perfect your One-Pan Balsamic Chicken Orzo? Here are some expert tips:

• Chop your vegetables uniformly: This ensures they cook evenly and maintain a pleasant texture.
• Customize the vegetables: Feel free to include anything you have on hand, like spinach, kale, or even artichokes for a unique twist.
• Adjust the vinegar: For a sweeter flavor, you can add a touch of honey to balance the acidity of the balsamic.

Creative Twists

Why not experiment a bit? Consider adding in cheese—feta pairs wonderfully with the balsamic glaze, or mix in fresh mozzarella balls for creaminess. For a spicy kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or jalapeños. Want to make it vegetarian? Substitute chicken with chickpeas or firm tofu and follow the same steps.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

Overall, this recipe can be executed in about 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

Can I use whole grain orzo instead of regular?

Absolutely! Whole grain orzo is a fantastic substitution and will add some additional fiber to the dish.

Is it safe to reheat leftover chicken orzo?

Yes, it is safe to reheat leftovers. Just make sure to heat it thoroughly before consuming, ideally to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

With its delightful combination of flavors and ease of preparation, One-Pan Balsamic Chicken Orzo isn’t just a meal—it’s a moment to gather around the table, enjoy gourmet flavors, and appreciate the simplicity of home-cooked goodness. Whether you make it for yourself or share it with loved ones, this recipe is sure to become a cherished addition to your rotation.

One-Pan Balsamic Chicken Orzo

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• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free

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Description

A quick, flavorful dish combining juicy chicken, tender orzo, and vibrant veggies, all tossed in a savory balsamic glaze.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
2. Add diced chicken and cook until browned, seasoning with salt and pepper.
3. Stir in orzo, chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, and vegetables, ensuring everything is well mixed.
4. Bring to a gentle boil, then cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and liquid is absorbed.
5. Remove from heat, let sit for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Notes

Customize vegetables based on your preference. For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with chickpeas or firm tofu.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: One-Pan Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 370mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: chicken, orzo, balsamic, one-pan, easy dinner, weeknight meal