Balsamic Chicken and Veggie Orzo is a tasty dish full of colorful veggies and tender chicken, all coated in a yummy balsamic glaze. It’s like a party on your plate!
This one-pot wonder is so easy to make, and you get both protein and veggies in a bowl. I love serving it with a sprinkle of cheese on top. It’s always a hit at dinner time! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: Orzo adds a comforting texture to the dish. If you can’t find orzo, you can swap it out for rice, quinoa, or even small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous.
Chicken: I love using breast meat because it cooks quickly and stays juicy. You can also use thighs for extra flavor. For a vegetarian option, substitute with chickpeas or tofu. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly!
Balsamic Vinegar: Balsamic vinegar gives a rich flavor. If you’re out, try red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, though they will change the taste a bit. Honey or maple syrup can also be added for a sweet twist, but reduce the amount of vinegar.
Vegetables: Use any mix of your favorite veggies! Broccoli, asparagus, or spinach can be great alternatives. Personal tip: I always throw in frozen peas for color and extra nutrition!
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but here’s how to get it just right! Start by cutting chicken into even-sized pieces to ensure they cook at the same rate. Season well with salt and pepper for flavor.
- Heat the oil until it’s nice and hot before adding chicken; this helps it brown and caramelize.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet—give pieces room to cook properly!
- Cook until the outside is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for tender, juicy chicken.
Can I Cook the Orzo Solo?
Absolutely! If you prefer cooking orzo separately, just boil it in salted water according to package instructions. Drain it and then mix it with the sautéed veggies and chicken later. This way, you ensure the pasta is perfectly cooked without risk of overcooking in the sauce.
With these tips in hand, your Balsamic Chicken and Veggie Orzo will turn out delicious every time! Enjoy!
How to Make Balsamic Chicken and Veggie Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, whole
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a blend of oregano, thyme, basil)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves, finely chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook. So, you can have a delightful meal ready in just 30 minutes – perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by heating half the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While it’s heating, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and half of the dried Italian herbs. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and sauté it until it’s browned and cooked all the way through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion, minced garlic, bell pepper, and sliced mushrooms. Cook these delicious veggies, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, or until they start to soften.
3. Add More Veggies:
Now, add the sliced zucchini to the mix and cook everything for an additional 2 minutes, just until the zucchini is tender but still has a little crunch.
4. Cook the Orzo:
Add the orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring it around to coat it in the oil and veggies. Then, pour in the chicken broth (or water), give it a good stir, and bring it all to a boil. After that, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 9-10 minutes. The orzo should be tender and the liquid will be absorbed by now.
5. Add the Cherry Tomatoes:
Stir in the whole cherry tomatoes and let them warm through for about 2 minutes. They’ll burst with sweetness and flavor!
6. Make the Balsamic Sauce:
While the orzo is cooking, grab a small bowl and whisk together the balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, remaining Italian herbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
7. Combine Everything:
Put the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the orzo and veggies. Pour the balsamic sauce all over everything and stir gently to combine. Heat everything together for another 2-3 minutes until it’s nice and warm—this is where it gets flavorful and delicious!
8. Finishing Touches:
Once everything is nicely mixed and heated through, take a moment to taste it! Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your lovely Balsamic Chicken and Veggie Orzo hot, garnished with freshly chopped basil leaves on top. Enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!
Happy cooking, and enjoy your flavorful and vibrant Balsamic Chicken and Veggie Orzo!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo is a great substitute and will add extra fiber to your dish. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it might take a minute or two longer to cook through.
What If I Don’t Have Balsamic Vinegar?
No worries! You can substitute balsamic vinegar with apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar. If you want a touch of sweetness, consider adding a little honey or sugar to balance the acidity.
Can I Make This Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the chicken with cubed tofu, chickpeas, or another protein of your choice. You can also add in more vegetables to keep it hearty and filling!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen it up if needed.