Balsamic Chicken Veggie Orzo: Easy One-Pan, High Protein (Print Version)
Quick balsamic chicken and veggie orzo. This high-protein, one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights, delivering big flavor with minimal cleanup.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
# Ingredients:
→ Savory Protein & Pasta Core
01 -
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
02 -
1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
03 -
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
→ Mediterranean Garden Medley
04 -
1 red bell pepper, cored and chopped into 1-inch pieces
05 -
1 zucchini, trimmed and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
06 -
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
07 -
1 pint (about 2 cups) cherry tomatoes, halved
08 -
2 cups fresh spinach
→ Tangy Balsamic Infusion
09 -
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
10 -
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
11 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
12 -
1 tsp dried oregano
13 -
1/2 tsp salt
14 -
1/4 tsp black pepper
→ Fresh Finish & Garnish
15 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Chop 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. Core and chop 1 red bell pepper into 1-inch pieces, chop 1 zucchini into 1/2-inch pieces, thinly slice 1/2 red onion, halve 1 pint cherry tomatoes, and mince 3 cloves garlic.
02 -
In a large oven-safe skillet, combine the chopped chicken with 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. This seasoning is key for your Easy Balsamic Chicken Veggie Orzo.
03 -
Heat the skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes until lightly browned. Push chicken to one side, add 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, then add 1/2 red onion, 1 red bell pepper, and 1 zucchini. Sauté for 5 minutes until slightly tender.
04 -
Stir in 3 cloves minced garlic and 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta with the chicken and vegetables. Pour in 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth and 1 pint halved cherry tomatoes. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
05 -
Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This ensures a perfect Easy Balsamic Chicken Veggie Orzo.
06 -
Remove from heat. Stir in 2 cups fresh spinach until wilted. Let the Easy Balsamic Chicken Veggie Orzo - One Pan & High Protein rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, before serving.
# Notes:
01 -
For extra flavor, a sprinkle of feta cheese or shaved Parmesan at the end adds a lovely salty tang.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
03 -
Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what's in season or what you have on hand, such as broccoli florets, mushrooms, or asparagus.
04 -
Serve this dish as a complete meal on its own, or alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large baking sheet
02 -
Cutting board
03 -
Sharp knife
04 -
Measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 550 kcal
Total Fat: 14 g
Total Carbohydrate: 42 g
Protein: 57 g