This Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo is a one-pan dinner hero—juicy chicken, sautéed vegetables, tender orzo, and a tangy balsamic glaze to pull it all together. It’s packed with flavor, done in about 30 minutes, and requires no fancy ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this is one recipe you’ll be coming back to again and again. Let’s get right into the step-by-step instructions.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Veggies:
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus 1 more tablespoon later)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1/2 red onion, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
For the Balsamic Glaze:
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
For the Orzo:
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
To Finish:
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Serving Size
Serves 4 people generously.
Total Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Place the chicken cubes in a bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the chicken evenly with the spices. Set aside to marinate briefly while you prep the other ingredients.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Let it sear undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes to get a golden-brown crust. Flip the pieces and cook another 3 to 4 minutes until fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the red bell pepper, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Sauté for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are softened but still bright and slightly crisp.
Step 4: Make the Balsamic Glaze
While the vegetables are cooking, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, and minced garlic in a small bowl.
Step 5: Combine Chicken, Veggies, and Glaze
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the balsamic glaze and stir everything to coat. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so the glaze slightly thickens and coats the chicken and veggies evenly.
Step 6: Cook the Orzo
While the chicken and veggies are simmering, bring 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 tablespoon of olive oil to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add 1 cup of dry orzo and a pinch of salt. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking. Cook until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Step 7: Combine Everything
Once the orzo is ready, add it directly into the skillet with the balsamic chicken and veggies. Stir gently to combine everything well. If the mixture looks dry, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
Step 8: Add Toppings and Serve
Turn off the heat. Sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese on top if using. Finish with a handful of fresh chopped basil or parsley. Serve hot, and enjoy.
Tips for Making the Best Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo
- Sear the chicken properly: Let it sit undisturbed in the pan for a few minutes before flipping to get that golden crust. Crowding the pan can cause it to steam instead of sear.
- Use fresh garlic in the glaze: It makes a big difference in flavor compared to garlic powder here.
- Stir the orzo often: This keeps it from sticking and ensures even cooking. If it absorbs the broth too quickly, just add a splash more.
- Cut veggies uniformly: Even-sized pieces help the veggies cook at the same rate, so nothing ends up undercooked or mushy.
- Simmer the glaze: Don’t rush this part—letting the balsamic reduce slightly intensifies the flavor and brings the whole dish together.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian version: Skip the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, or spinach. You can even toss in some chickpeas for added protein.
- Different protein: Try this with shrimp, turkey, or tofu. If using shrimp, cook it just until pink and opaque, then remove and add it back at the end.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream for a richer texture.
- Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the glaze for some kick.
- Swap the grain: No orzo? Use cooked quinoa, couscous, or brown rice. Adjust the liquid and cook time as needed.
FAQs
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. Cook everything and store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats well and the flavors get even better the next day.
How should I reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to keep the orzo from drying out. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Can I use store-bought balsamic glaze instead of making my own?
Definitely. If you’re short on time, a pre-made balsamic glaze will work. Just be mindful of sweetness and adjust to taste.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated. Orzo can get a little mushy after freezing, so if you plan to freeze, consider keeping the components separate and reheating gently.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just make sure you have a large enough skillet to accommodate the extra volume, or cook the chicken and veggies in batches for the best texture.
This Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo is the perfect weeknight solution—quick to make, easy to clean up, and satisfying enough to keep everyone at the table happy. It’s packed with bold flavors and colorful ingredients that feel fancy but take almost no time to pull together. Whether you’re making dinner for the family or meal-prepping for the week, this is one of those recipes that will stay in your rotation all year long.