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Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo

Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo

A cozy weeknight dinner featuring seared chicken, orzo pasta, and vibrant veggies, all brought together with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • bowl

Ingredients
  

Marinade

  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar For a sweet and tangy glaze.
  • 2 tablespoons honey Can substitute with maple syrup for a different sweetness.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Brings aromatic flavors.
  • 1 pinch salt To taste.
  • 1 pinch black pepper To taste.
  • 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces Ensures even cooking.

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup orzo pasta Toasted for nuttiness.
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth For cooking the orzo.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Used for cooking.
  • 1 small red bell pepper, diced Adds color and sweetness.
  • 1 small zucchini, diced For texture.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Provides acidity.
  • 2 cups baby spinach For freshness.
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese Finishing touch.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped For garnish and flavor.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
  • Add chicken pieces to the marinade, toss to coat, and let sit for 10 minutes.
  • Chop the bell pepper and zucchini while the chicken marinates.

Cooking

  • Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the marinated chicken and sear until golden and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and toast the orzo for 1 minute.
  • Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until orzo is tender, about 8 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, in a separate pan over medium heat, sauté bell pepper and zucchini until slightly tender, about 4 minutes.
  • Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook until they soften.
  • When orzo is done, stir in baby spinach until wilted, then return chicken to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes.
  • Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, and adjust seasoning to taste.
  • Serve immediately, spooning extra marinade over the plated orzo.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth. Marinate chicken up to a day in advance for convenience.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg
Keyword Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo, balsamic glaze, Chicken, Dinner, Orzo, Vegetables
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