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Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo

Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo

  • Author: Christopher
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo recipe combines tender chicken breasts with fresh vegetables, all coated in a tangy balsamic glaze. Featuring orzo pasta, cherry tomatoes, spinach, and bell peppers sautéed in olive oil and finished with fresh basil, it offers a wholesome, vibrant meal perfect for quick weeknight dinners. One-pan cooking ensures minimal cleanup while delivering rich, balanced flavors everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 boneless chicken breasts

Pasta & Vegetables

  • 1 cup orzo pasta (or gluten-free orzo/quinoa for gluten-free option)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

Sauces & Oils

  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar (natural)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (natural)

Herbs & Seasonings

  • Handful fresh basil leaves
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Additions

  • Sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or walnuts
  • Pinch of red chili flakes
  • Small amount of natural gelling agent (optional, for sauce thickening)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Season boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and let rest while you prepare the vegetables.
  2. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add minced garlic, sliced bell peppers, and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables soften and the tomatoes start releasing their juices, creating a sweet and flavorful base.
  3. Cook the orzo: Add orzo pasta directly to the skillet with the vegetables, stirring to coat the pasta with the flavors. Pour in about 1 cup of water or vegetable broth, then cover the skillet. Let the orzo simmer for 8-10 minutes until tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed.
  4. Combine balsamic glaze and chicken: Stir in balsamic vinegar (natural) and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) into the skillet to coat the orzo and vegetables with the tangy glaze. Slice the rested chicken breasts and nestle them into the pan along with fresh spinach leaves, allowing the spinach to wilt gently in the residual heat.
  5. Final touches: Toss fresh basil leaves on top and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with a drizzle of olive oil (natural), toasted nuts, or cracked black pepper for extra texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Use good-quality balsamic vinegar (natural) to enhance depth and complexity of the glaze.
  • Do not overcook the orzo; keep it al dente for best texture contrast.
  • Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Add spinach late in the cooking process to wilt gently while retaining vibrant color.
  • Customize seasoning with red chili flakes for subtle heat or extra fresh basil for herbal brightness.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Pan Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: balsamic chicken, veggie orzo, one-pan meal, quick dinner, easy recipe, healthy, gluten free, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce

Find it online: https://easyrecipeplanet.com/balsamic-chicken-veggie-orzo/