Easy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo

Easy balsamic chicken & veggie orzo takes me right back to a sunny evening when I wanted something colorful, fresh, and quick but still full of rich, satisfying flavors so I tossed together tender balsamic-glazed chicken, crisp roasted veggies, and a handful of orzo and when I sat down to eat the sweet, tangy glaze paired with the soft pasta and bright veggies felt like a perfect little celebration on a plate and from that day it became one of my favorite weeknight dinners.

Now I love making this balsamic chicken & veggie orzo because it’s easy enough for busy nights but feels fancy enough to serve to friends and the juicy chicken and sweet balsamic sauce coat the orzo perfectly while the bell peppers, zucchini, and tomatoes add brightness and crunch and a sprinkle of cheese and fresh basil on top makes it feel extra special and every forkful is full of vibrant flavor that keeps you coming back for more.

Ingredients

• Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
• Chicken breast – Tender, juicy protein that soaks up the balsamic glaze.
• Orzo pasta – A small, rice-shaped pasta that holds sauce beautifully.
• Bell peppers – Add sweetness, color, and crunch.
• Zucchini – Brings a light, fresh element to balance the dish.
• Cherry tomatoes – Juicy pops of sweetness throughout.
• Balsamic glaze – Sweet, tangy, and ties all the flavors together.
• Olive oil – For roasting veggies and searing chicken.
• Garlic – Infuses everything with delicious depth.
• Salt – Essential for seasoning each layer.
• Black pepper – Adds a gentle kick.
• Feta cheese – Creamy, salty finishing touch.
• Fresh basil – Brightens the dish and adds a fresh aroma.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet – For cooking the chicken and tossing everything together.
• Baking sheet – For roasting the vegetables.
• Pot – To cook the orzo until tender.
• Knife – For chopping veggies and chicken.
• Cutting board – Keeps your prep neat and safe.
• Tongs – Handy for tossing veggies and turning chicken.
• Mixing bowl – For tossing veggies before roasting.

Instructions

Step 1

I start by cooking the orzo in a pot of salted boiling water until al dente then I drain it and set it aside.

Step 2

While the orzo cooks I preheat the oven to 425°F and toss the chopped bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes in olive oil, salt, and black pepper then spread them on a baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 3

I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the seasoned chicken pieces cooking until golden brown and fully cooked through.

Step 4

Then I add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about a minute until fragrant.

Step 5

Next I pour in the balsamic glaze and toss to coat the chicken evenly creating a shiny, sweet-savory finish.

Step 6

I add the cooked orzo and roasted veggies to the skillet and toss everything together so the pasta gets fully coated in the balsamic glaze.

Step 7

Finally I sprinkle crumbled feta and fresh basil on top before serving for extra flavor and a pop of color.

Tips

If you want even more flavor I recommend marinating the chicken in a little balsamic vinegar and olive oil ahead of time. You can also swap in any veggies you love like asparagus or mushrooms. And if you prefer a creamier texture, add a spoonful of pesto or a drizzle of cream to the final mix!

Ways to Serve

I love serving this balsamic chicken & veggie orzo as a complete meal on its own but it also pairs nicely with a simple side salad or warm garlic bread. It’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners, meal prep lunches, or even as a light dish for a summer gathering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make easy balsamic chicken & veggie orzo ahead of time?

Yes! It keeps well in the fridge for a few days and is great for meal prep.

Can I use a different type of pasta for easy balsamic chicken & veggie orzo?

Absolutely! Try penne, farfalle, or even quinoa if you want to switch it up.

Can I make easy balsamic chicken & veggie orzo vegetarian?

Yes! Just skip the chicken and add extra veggies or chickpeas for protein.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this easy balsamic chicken & veggie orzo a try! It’s colorful, flavorful, and so simple to make and I’d love to hear how yours turns out. Share your photos and let me know what veggies you used!

Happy Cooking!

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