Easy One-Pan Balsamic Chicken Orzo with Vegetables: A Delicious and Nutritious Dinner 🥘🍇✨
1. Introduction
Looking for a healthy dinner recipe that combines rich flavors with minimal cleanup? This Easy One-Pan Balsamic Chicken Orzo with Vegetables is your answer! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a crowd-pleasing meal, this recipe offers big healthy dinners and clean simple dinner recipes all in one skillet. The juicy balsamic glazed chicken paired with tender orzo and colorful vegetables creates a harmonious blend of flavors guaranteed to satisfy.
2. Ingredients for Balsamic Glazed Chicken With Orzo
- 2 large skinless, boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup zucchini, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Balsamic Chicken And Veggie Orzo
**Preparation of the Chicken**
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried basil. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for approximately 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and nicely browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
**Cooking the Vegetables and Orzo**
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the red onion and garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add the cherry tomatoes and zucchini, cooking for another 4-5 minutes until vegetables start to soften. Pour in the balsamic vinegar and cook for 2 more minutes to create a glaze. Then, stir in the orzo pasta and 2 cups of water or chicken broth. Cover and simmer until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid—it usually takes about 10 minutes.
**Combine and Garnish**
Slice the cooked chicken breasts and return them to the skillet, arranging them on top of the orzo and vegetables. Cover and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to reheat the chicken and meld the flavors. Finish by garnishing with fresh basil or parsley, and adjust seasoning if needed. For more quick dinner ideas, check out hearty crockpot chicken enchilada casserole.
4. Storage Tips for Balsamic Chicken And Veggie Orzo
This dish stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm in a skillet over low heat. For a crispy finish, consider reheating the chicken in an oven or toaster oven. For extra convenience, check out loaded veggie white lasagna for other veggie-packed meals to prepare ahead.
5. Serving Suggestions for A Complete Meal
This healthy dinner recipe for a crowd can be paired with a simple side salad or steamed greens, such as honey glazed carrots and green beans. It also works wonderfully with crusty bread or toasted baguette slices. For a more filling feast, explore spicy butternut squash and sweet potato soup as an appetizer or side.
6. Why Choose This All Natural Dinner Recipe?
This all natural dinner recipe is crafted with fresh ingredients, basic seasonings, and wholesome flavors. It aligns perfectly with all good recipes that promote healthy eating and quick prep. Plus, the one-pan method means less fuss and more flavor! For those interested in versatile cooking tools, consider using a CAROTE premium nonstick cookware set or a Ninja air fryer for even faster results.
7. FAQs About Balsamic Glazed Chicken With Orzo
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes! Use gluten-free orzo or substitute with cauliflower rice for dairy-free, gluten-free options.
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the components and refrigerate separately. Reheat on the stove or microwave for a quick meal.
- What vegetables can I add or substitute? Feel free to incorporate bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to customize your big healthy dinners.
8. Final Tips for the Perfect Balsamic Chicken Orzo Dinner
Ensure your chicken is cooked thoroughly for safety and juiciness, and don’t forget to season generously for maximum flavor. Using fresh herbs just before serving boosts aroma and freshness. For additional ease, you might want to invest in a Ninja Mega Kitchen Power System, which can help with chopping vegetables and blending ingredients seamlessly.
9. Conclusion
This Balsamic Glazed Chicken With Orzo recipe is a fantastic example of clean simple dinner recipes that are both satisfying and nutritious. It highlights how a few quality ingredients can come together in a one-pan dish that’s quick to prepare and perfect for any crowd. Whether for weeknights or special gatherings, this easy dinner entree will become a go-to in your recipe collection. Try it today and enjoy a healthy dinner recipe for a crowd that’s as delicious as it is easy to make!
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Easy One-Pan Balsamic Chicken Orzo with Vegetables
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Healthy, Nutritious
Description
Discover the delicious simplicity of our Easy One-Pan Balsamic Chicken Orzo with Vegetables—a healthy, flavorful dinner perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken glazed with balsamic vinegar, paired with tender orzo and colorful vegetables, all cooked in one skillet for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 large skinless, boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup zucchini, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried basil.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked and browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil. Sauté red onion and garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Add cherry tomatoes and zucchini; cook for 4-5 minutes until vegetables soften.
- Pour balsamic vinegar into the skillet and cook for 2 minutes to form a glaze.
- Add orzo and 2 cups water or chicken broth. Cover and simmer for about 10 minutes until orzo absorbs the liquid and is tender.
- Slice the cooked chicken and return to the skillet, placing on top of the orzo and vegetables. Cover and cook for 2-3 minutes to reheat the chicken.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute orzo with cauliflower rice for a gluten-free option.
- The dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in microwave or skillet. For crispy chicken, reheat in the oven.
- Add different vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for variety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American