Description
Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo is a delightful one-pan meal that combines the tangy flavor of balsamic vinegar with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and the comforting texture of orzo pasta. This dish is not only incredibly easy to prepare but also packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a fantastic choice for a quick and satisfying family dinner or meal prep. Get ready to savor the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in every bite!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 cup baby spinach (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Start by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the chicken for 4 to 5 minutes until browned on the outside. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
2. In the same skillet, add the onion and cook for 2 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Stir in the zucchini and bell pepper, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes until tender-crisp.
3. Add the orzo, chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, honey, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Bring to a gentle boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes until the orzo is tender.
4. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and baby spinach, letting the spinach wilt. If desired, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Leftover Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or water to restore moisture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg