Description

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!

Ingredients

For the Breadcrumbs:

½ baguette, cut into small pieces

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon pepper

2 teaspoons oregano

For the Pasta:

300g Cavatappi macaroni (or any pasta of your choice)

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

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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 (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.
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.

Notes

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.
Vegan Option: 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.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired