Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. With just a few ingredients and a single pan, you’ll enjoy a complete meal packed with protein, fiber, and antioxidants. The balsamic vinegar adds a subtle tang that ties everything together, while the orzo soaks up all the delicious flavors from the chicken and vegetables. Plus, this dish is naturally adaptable—swap in your favorite vegetables or even change up the protein for variety. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and meal prep, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal cleanup.

Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo

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
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half the oregano. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove chicken and set aside to rest.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped red onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add Vegetables and Orzo: Add the diced bell pepper and zucchini to the pan, cooking for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Pour in the orzo pasta, stirring to coat with the oil and vegetables.
Add Liquid and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Finish the Dish: Slice the rested chicken into strips. Add the cherry tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, and remaining oregano to the pan. Gently fold in the sliced chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes are warmed through and the balsamic creates a light glaze.
Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately while hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Chicken Thighs: Swap the chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a more flavorful, juicy option. The cooking time will be similar, but ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Vegetable Substitutes: Feel free to replace the zucchini and bell pepper with other vegetables like asparagus, mushrooms, or yellow squash, depending on what’s in season or what you have on hand.
Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap out the orzo with gluten-free pasta.
Creamy Version: For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream or some grated Parmesan cheese at the end of cooking.
Vegan Version: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth, adding extra vegetables or chickpeas for protein.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The orzo may absorb more liquid as it sits, so you might want to add a splash of chicken broth when reheating.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a little extra chicken broth or water to loosen the mixture. You can also microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully and may add more flavor. Just cook them for the same amount of time, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

2. What if I don’t have chicken broth?

You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or even use water with a bouillon cube. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh but will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you make it ahead, the orzo may absorb more liquid, so add a bit of broth when reheating.

4. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth. Add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or chickpeas to increase the protein content.

5. Can I freeze this recipe?

While it is possible to freeze the dish, orzo doesn’t freeze particularly well as it can become mushy when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

6. What can I substitute for balsamic vinegar?

If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a similar tangy flavor. You might want to add a small amount of honey or sugar to balance the acidity.

7. Can I use other pasta instead of orzo?

Yes! If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute with small pasta like ditalini, farfalle, or penne. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the pasta is fully cooked.

8. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check for accuracy.

9. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add extra veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or peas to the dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times for the added ingredients.

10. How do I prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan?

Stir the orzo occasionally while it simmers to prevent it from sticking. If the liquid absorbs too quickly before the orzo is tender, you can add a bit more chicken broth or water.

Conclusion

Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo is a quick, flavorful, and versatile meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With a short prep time and minimal cleanup, it’s a great option for busy evenings when you want something satisfying and delicious. Plus, its adaptability means you can change the ingredients based on what you have at home, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.