There is nothing quite like the fresh, vibrant flavors of this Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo Recipe to brighten up a weeknight dinner or impress guests at a casual gathering. This dish combines tender, marinated chicken breast with a medley of lightly sautéed vegetables and pearl-like orzo pasta, all brought together by the tangy sweetness of balsamic vinegar. It strikes the perfect balance between wholesome comfort food and a colorful, elegant plate you’ll be proud to serve. Easy to prepare but packed with layers of texture and flavor, this recipe quickly becomes a family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo Recipe plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious blend of taste, texture, and color. From the juicy chicken marinated in balsamic goodness to the fresh basil that finishes the dish with a pop of green, these essentials come together beautifully without any fuss.
- Chicken breast (2 pieces): Pound for even cooking and juicy tenderness.
- Orzo pasta (1 cup): Tiny rice-shaped pasta that soaks up the flavors perfectly.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): Adds richness and helps in sautéing the veggies just right.
- Balsamic vinegar (3 tbsp): The star ingredient that lends a tangy, slightly sweet glaze to the chicken.
- Garlic cloves (2): Minced to bring fragrant depth throughout the dish.
- Zucchini (1): Adds tender bite and a splash of green color.
- Red bell pepper (1): Brightens the dish with sweetness and vibrant red hue.
- Cherry tomatoes (1 cup): Juicy pops of freshness stirred in at the end.
- Onion (1 small): Sautéed until soft and slightly caramelized for natural sweetness.
- Chicken broth (2 cups): The flavorful liquid that cooks the orzo to perfection.
- Salt (½ tsp): Enhances every ingredient’s natural flavor.
- Black pepper (¼ tsp): A gentle heat to balance the balsamic glaze.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup): Adds a creamy, savory finish.
- Fresh basil (2 tbsp, chopped): Provides an aromatic herbaceous note just before serving.
How to Make Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Marinate the Chicken
Begin by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook uniformly and stay juicy. Season them lightly with salt and black pepper. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and minced garlic to make a vibrant marinade. Coat the chicken in this mixture and let it sit for about 15 minutes so it soaks up all those tangy, aromatic flavors.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat your skillet over medium heat and gently cook the marinated chicken breasts for 5 to 6 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for a beautiful caramelized exterior and perfectly cooked interior. Once done, remove from the skillet and slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Set aside, because we’re about to build the rest of this flavor-packed dish.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, toss in the diced onion, chopped zucchini, and red bell pepper. The bits left behind from the chicken will add incredible depth to the veggies. Sauté them for 4 to 5 minutes just until they start to become tender, releasing their sweet, fresh flavors while maintaining a slight crunch.
Step 4: Cook the Orzo
Add the orzo right into the skillet with the vegetables, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring everything to a simmer and let it cook uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The orzo will absorb the savory broth and pick up the subtle sweetness from the veggies, resulting in a creamy, satisfying texture.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Once the orzo is al dente and the liquid mostly absorbed, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced chicken, and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, just long enough to warm the tomatoes and melt the cheese into the mix. This final step brings together all the layers of flavor with a comforting, cheesy touch.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove your skillet from heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh basil on top. This fragrant herb adds a burst of color and a lovely fresh note that brightens the entire dish. Now you’re ready to dive into this delightful Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo Recipe!
How to Serve Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo Recipe
Garnishes
While fresh basil is the classic finishing touch, feel free to scatter some pine nuts or a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a bit of crunch and richness. A few shavings of Parmesan cheese on top can elevate the presentation and enhance the savory flavor profile.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderfully versatile, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or a garlic bread loaf complements it beautifully. For a heartier meal, consider roasted asparagus or simple steamed green beans dressed with lemon juice to balance the balsamic tang.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish family-style right from the skillet for a cozy vibe or plate it individually with a small mound of orzo topped with chicken slices and a basil sprig. For gatherings, serve in colorful bowls that highlight the dish’s vibrant veggies for an inviting meal experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo Recipe into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld overnight, making leftovers equally delicious.
Freezing
This dish freezes fairly well if you want to save portions for later. Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to two months. When frozen, the texture of the orzo may soften a bit, but reheating with a splash of broth will bring it back to life.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the leftovers in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally and adding a little chicken broth or water to keep the orzo moist. Avoid overheating to preserve the freshness of the veggies and maintain the tender chicken.
FAQs
Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with turkey breast or even firm tofu for a vegetarian twist. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the protein is properly cooked.
Is orzo difficult to cook?
Not at all! Orzo cooks similarly to rice or small pasta and typically takes about 8 to 10 minutes to reach al dente. Stirring occasionally helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.
Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?
Yes, the marinade can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Marinating the chicken overnight will intensify the balsamic flavor beautifully.
What if I don’t have fresh basil on hand?
Dried basil can be used in a pinch, but it’s best added earlier during cooking rather than as a garnish. Alternatively, fresh parsley or oregano also pairs nicely with this dish.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! The Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo Recipe stores well and reheats nicely, making it an ideal option for preparing lunches or dinners in advance.
Final Thoughts
Give this Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo Recipe a try the next time you want a meal that’s both comforting and bursting with fresh flavors. It strikes a perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication, making it a reliable go-to whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd. Trust me, once you taste the tangy balsamic marinade mingling with tender chicken and vibrant veggies, it’ll become a recipe you keep returning to again and again.
Print
Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo recipe combines tender marinated chicken breast with sautéed fresh vegetables and orzo pasta cooked in flavorful chicken broth. Finished with grated Parmesan and fresh basil, it offers a wholesome, vibrant meal perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 pieces chicken breast
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Pasta and Vegetables
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cups chicken broth
Finishing Touches
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and minced garlic. Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the marinade and let them soak for 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Cook Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Remove chicken from marinade and cook for 5–6 minutes on each side until fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Remove from skillet and slice into strips. Set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add diced onion, chopped zucchini, and chopped red bell pepper. Sauté for about 4–5 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly but remain crisp.
- Cook Orzo: Stir the orzo pasta into the sautéed vegetables, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and has absorbed most of the broth.
- Add Final Ingredients: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced chicken, and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 1–2 minutes to warm everything through and meld the flavors.
- Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh basil. Serve immediately for a delicious, hearty meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end before serving.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a spoonful of cream or a bit more Parmesan cheese.
- This dish can be prepared with vegetable broth and without chicken to make a vegetarian version.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
