Easy One-Pan Balsamic Chicken Orzo with Vegetables

Imagine the tangy aroma of balsamic vinegar mingling with savory chicken and tender orzo pasta, all in one delicious skillet meal. This Easy One-Pan Balsamic Chicken Orzo with Vegetables transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish with minimal cleanup. The combination of protein, pasta, and colorful vegetables creates a balanced meal perfect for weeknight dinners when you need something impressive yet effortless. You’ll learn how to perfectly cook chicken and orzo together while creating a light balsamic glaze that ties all the flavors together beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy One-Pan Balsamic Chicken Orzo with Vegetables will quickly become a family favorite for several compelling reasons. First, the one-pan preparation means you’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal. The combination of textures is remarkable—tender, juicy chicken paired with al dente orzo pasta and slightly crisp vegetables creates a delightful contrast in every bite.

The balsamic vinegar adds a sophisticated sweet-tangy dimension that elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary. As the vinegar reduces during cooking, it creates a light glaze that coats every ingredient perfectly. This balsamic chicken orzo dish also delivers a beautiful balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables in one convenient serving.

What’s more, this versatile recipe allows for customization based on seasonal vegetables or what you have on hand. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil make it as visually appealing as it is delicious—perfect for both casual family dinners and entertaining guests.

Ingredients List for the Easy One-Pan Balsamic Chicken Orzo with Vegetables

These ingredients work together to create a harmonious blend of Mediterranean-inspired flavors. The balsamic vinegar adds acidity and sweetness, while the fresh vegetables provide color, texture, and nutrition to complement the protein and pasta.

• 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

Pro Tips

For the most flavorful Easy One-Pan Balsamic Chicken Orzo with Vegetables, don’t rush browning the chicken. Those golden-brown bits that form on the bottom of the pan (known as fond) are packed with flavor that will be released when you add the broth, creating an incredible depth of taste throughout the dish.

When cooking the orzo, stir occasionally but not constantly. This prevents sticking while still allowing some of the pasta to develop a slight toastiness that adds wonderful texture. If the mixture becomes too dry before the orzo is fully cooked, add a splash more broth or water, about 2 tablespoons at a time.

For the best balsamic flavor, add it toward the end of cooking as directed. Adding it too early can cause it to become bitter, while adding it at the final stage preserves its vibrant tang and allows it to create that signature light glaze that makes this dish special. For an even more intense flavor, consider using a higher-quality aged balsamic vinegar.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half 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). Remove chicken and set 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, cooking for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Pour in the orzo pasta, stirring to coat with the oil and vegetables.

Step 4: Add Liquid and Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce 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
Slice the rested chicken into strips. Add the cherry tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, and remaining oregano to the pan. Gently fold in the sliced chicken and cook for 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

Mediterranean Chicken Orzo: Enhance the Mediterranean flavors by adding 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese, 1/4 cup kalamata olives, and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice just before serving. The salty feta and briny olives perfectly complement the balsamic chicken orzo combination.

Vegetarian Balsamic Orzo: Transform this into a meatless meal by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add 1 cup of canned, drained chickpeas or white beans when you add the tomatoes for protein. This vegetable orzo with balsamic glaze works beautifully as a main dish or side.

Creamy Balsamic Chicken Orzo: For a richer version, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or mascarpone cheese after removing the pan from heat. The creamy element balances the tanginess of the balsamic vinegar and creates an indulgent sauce that clings to the orzo and vegetables.

Storage and Serving

This Easy One-Pan Balsamic Chicken Orzo with Vegetables stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually develop further as it sits, making it an excellent meal prep option. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth before microwaving to restore moisture, or warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat.

For an elegant serving suggestion, transfer the balsamic chicken orzo to a large platter and arrange additional fresh basil and a drizzle of high-quality balsamic glaze over the top. Pair with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to complement the meal’s flavors.

This dish also makes excellent lunches—portion into meal prep containers and enjoy cold or reheated. For a more substantial dinner presentation, serve with crusty garlic bread for soaking up the delicious balsamic sauce and a glass of medium-bodied red wine like Sangiovese or Pinot Noir.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs or breasts, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time by about 5-7 minutes per side. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F before removing them from the pan.

My orzo is still firm, but the liquid is almost gone. What should I do?
Add an additional 1/4 cup of broth or water, cover, and continue simmering until the orzo reaches your desired tenderness. Different brands of orzo may require slightly different cooking times.

Can I make this ahead of time for a dinner party?
Yes! You can prepare the entire dish up to a day ahead and reheat it gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth. Add the fresh basil just before serving for the best presentation and flavor.

Is there a substitute for balsamic vinegar?
Red wine vinegar mixed with a teaspoon of honey can work as a substitute. While it won’t have the exact same depth of flavor, it will provide a similar sweet-tangy profile.

Can I add different vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! This Easy One-Pan Balsamic Chicken Orzo with Vegetables is very adaptable. Try adding mushrooms, spinach, asparagus, or any seasonal vegetables you have on hand. Just adjust cooking times accordingly—leafy greens should be added at the very end, while harder vegetables might need to go in earlier with the bell peppers.

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