This tasty balsamic chicken and veggie orzo is a complete meal wrapped up in one dish! Tender chicken joins colorful veggies and cozy orzo in a sweet and tangy balsamic sauce.
You can whip this up in no time, making it perfect for busy nights. I love how the flavors blend together, and the orzo adds a fun twist—seriously, it’s like a hug in a bowl! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: Orzo is a charming little pasta that looks like rice. If you can’t find it, you can swap it for other small pasta shapes like ditalini or mini bowties. Quinoa also works for a gluten-free option!
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is standard here for easy cooking. You could use chicken thighs for a juicier bite or even swap the meat for tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a sweet burst of flavor. If you can’t find them, regular tomatoes, diced, can work—but reduce cooking time to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Zucchini: Zucchini provides great texture and flavor, but feel free to substitute with bell peppers, asparagus, or even spinach for variety.
Balsamic Vinegar: This is key for that tangy flavor. If you’re out, red wine vinegar can work, although it’s less sweet. Adding a pinch of sugar can help mimic the flavor!
How Do I Cook the Chicken Perfectly?
Getting your chicken just right can be a challenge, but it’s essential for a tasty dish. Here’s how to cook it to perfection:
- Start with room-temperature chicken—take it out of the fridge 15-20 minutes before cooking.
- Heat your skillet well before adding the oil. This helps create a nice sear!
- Cook the chicken without moving it for 5-7 minutes per side to allow a good crust to form.
- Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking; this keeps it juicy!
Balsamic Chicken And Veggie Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes in total to prepare. You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes cooking the orzo and chicken, and the rest of the time sautéing the veggies and bringing everything together. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Orzo:
Start by cooking the orzo pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This generally takes around 8-10 minutes. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Making the Balsamic Glaze:
While the orzo is cooking, grab a small bowl and whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and dried oregano. This flavorful glaze will boost your dish!
3. Cooking the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides, then add them to the hot skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden-brown color. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
4. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Then, add the sliced zucchini and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender and the tomatoes start to burst, which should take about 4-5 minutes.
5. Combining It All:
Add the cooked orzo and the balsamic glaze to the skillet with the veggies. Gently toss everything together until it’s well combined and evenly heated through. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
6. Serving Up:
To serve, plate the orzo and veggie mixture, then top it with the sliced balsamic chicken. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil leaves for that extra touch of flavor!
Enjoy your flavorful, wholesome balsamic chicken and veggie orzo!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can substitute it with any small pasta shape like ditalini, couscous, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
What Can I Do If I Don’t Have Balsamic Vinegar?
If you’re out of balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar can work in a pinch. Just add a pinch of sugar to mimic the sweetness of balsamic vinegar!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and veggies in advance! Simply cook them as directed, then store them separately in the fridge. Reheat everything together when you’re ready to serve.
