Description
How to make Easy One-Pan Balsamic Chicken Orzo with tender chicken, pasta, and roasted veggies that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
- Base & Main Components:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1.5 cups uncooked orzo pasta
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 5 oz (about 5 cups packed) fresh spinach
- 1 medium red onion, diced
- Flavor Builders:
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 4–5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Seasonings:
- 1 tsp kosher salt, or to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper, or to taste
- Finishing & Toppings:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 lemon, for serving
Instructions
- Prep Ingredients: Start your Easy One-Pan Balsamic Chicken Orzo with Vegetables by dicing the red onion and cutting chicken into 1-inch pieces. Halve cherry tomatoes and mince garlic. This organized prep makes cooking a breeze.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add chicken and onion, cooking until chicken is lightly browned. Stir in minced garlic and oregano, cooking until fragrant, about one minute.
- Add Orzo: Stir in the uncooked orzo pasta directly into the pan with the chicken. Pour in the chicken broth and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper, then stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Simmer & Cook: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Stir occasionally. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and continue simmering uncovered until orzo is tender and liquid absorbed, about 5-10 minutes.
- Stir in Spinach: Once the orzo is perfectly tender and most liquid absorbed, stir in the fresh spinach. Cook just until the spinach wilts down, about 2-3 minutes. The residual heat will gently cook it, maintaining vibrant color.
- Garnish & Serve: Finish your Easy One-Pan Balsamic Chicken Orzo with Vegetables by stirring in fresh parsley and crumbled feta cheese. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for a bright, zesty finish. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Stir orzo frequently during simmering to prevent sticking and achieve perfect, tender texture; avoid mushy results.
Store leftover Balsamic Chicken Orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent substitute for breasts, often staying more tender and flavorful.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley, crumbled feta, and a generous squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Use quality balsamic vinegar for rich depth of flavor; cheap alternatives will compromise the dish’s taste.
**Allergy Information:** Dairy, Gluten