Looking for a quick and flavorful dinner that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrients? Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo is the perfect solution. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with vibrant vegetables and orzo pasta, all tossed in a tangy balsamic vinegar glaze. The best part? It’s all made in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. With fresh basil to garnish, this dish is both colorful and delicious—a true crowd-pleaser!

Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo is a one-pan wonder that brings together juicy chicken, tender orzo, and a variety of vegetables, all elevated by the richness of balsamic vinegar. The balance of flavors in this dish—from the sweetness of the balsamic glaze to the savory chicken and roasted vegetables—is what makes it so irresistible. It’s a quick, easy-to-make dinner option that’s perfect for weeknights when you need something tasty but don’t have a lot of time. Plus, it’s highly customizable—use whatever veggies you have on hand and enjoy a fresh, flavorful meal.

Ingredients

Tip: you’ll find full ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below

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

How to Make Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of 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, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest.

Step 2: 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. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Orzo

Add the diced bell pepper and zucchini to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Pour in the orzo pasta and stir to coat the pasta with the oil and vegetables.

Step 4: Add Liquid and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce the 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.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

While the orzo is simmering, slice the rested chicken into strips. Add the cherry tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, and remaining oregano to the pan with the orzo. Gently fold in the sliced chicken and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the tomatoes are warmed through and the balsamic creates a light glaze.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately while hot.

Variations

Add More Veggies: Feel free to swap in other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or eggplant to make this dish even more nutrient-packed.
Spicy Kick: For a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the balsamic mixture.
Cheese: Add some freshly grated Parmesan or feta cheese on top just before serving for an extra creamy and savory touch.

Heating and Storage

This dish is best served immediately, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to bring back the creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute the orzo for any small pasta shape, like penne or farfalle. Adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you use.

Can I make this dish with boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs are a great alternative and will add extra flavor and juiciness to the dish.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also use vegan sour cream or cheese as a topping if desired.

Can I make this in advance?

This dish is best when freshly made, but you can prep the vegetables, or cook the chicken ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Combine everything when ready to serve for the best results.

Can I use a different vinegar for the glaze?

Balsamic vinegar is key to the flavor, but if you don’t have it, you could use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. The taste will be slightly different but still delicious.

Conclusion

Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo is a flavor-packed, one-pan dish that brings together the best of savory, sweet, and tangy. The balsamic glaze adds richness, while the vegetables provide texture and freshness, making this dish a perfect go-to for a hearty and healthy meal. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s simple to make and sure to impress. Enjoy!