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Quick Balsamic Chicken Orzo Recipe

A flavorful and healthy one-pan balsamic chicken orzo recipe made with tender chicken, tangy balsamic glaze, fresh spring vegetables, and perfectly cooked orzo for an easy weeknight meal.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 113
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 red bell pepper chopped
  • 1 zucchini chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 2 cups baby spinach
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Method
 

  1. In a bowl, whisk balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon olive oil, honey, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add chicken to the marinade, coat well, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Cook orzo in salted boiling water according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
  4. Heat remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  5. Remove chicken from marinade, pat dry, and sear for 6–7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
  6. Transfer chicken to a plate and let rest.
  7. In the same skillet, sauté bell pepper and zucchini for 5 minutes.
  8. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes.
  9. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
  10. Add cooked orzo and toss to combine.
  11. Slice chicken and place on top of the orzo.
  12. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Notes

Do not over-marinate the chicken to avoid tough texture. Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.