Description
A quick and healthy Balsamic Chicken & Veggie Orzo dish featuring tender chicken thighs, vibrant fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta coated in a tangy balsamic glaze. This wholesome meal balances lean protein, wholesome carbs, and fresh veggies for a flavorful and satisfying dinner ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
Pasta
- 1 cup orzo pasta
Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Sauce & Seasonings
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar (natural)
- 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1/2 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves, torn
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side, ensuring they are cooked through and juicy. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, then add the sliced bell peppers, zucchini, and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant and slightly crisp.
- Prepare the Balsamic Glaze: Pour the balsamic vinegar, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and apple cider vinegar into the skillet. Sprinkle the natural gelling agent to slightly thicken the sauce. Simmer gently for a few minutes to develop a rich and tangy glaze that coats the vegetables well.
- Cook the Orzo: Meanwhile, cook the orzo pasta in boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Combine All Elements: Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the balsamic glaze. Stir in the cooked orzo and mix everything thoroughly to combine the flavors. Warm through for 2 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle torn fresh basil leaves over the top before serving for a fresh and aromatic finish.
Notes
- Avoid moving the chicken too much while cooking to get a nicely caramelized crust.
- Use fresh bell peppers and zucchini for the best texture and crunch.
- Adjust the amount of natural gelling agent depending on the desired thickness of the glaze.
- Cook orzo carefully to avoid mushiness; al dente texture is ideal.
- Let the combined dish rest for a minute before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: balsamic chicken, veggie orzo, quick dinner, healthy meal, gluten free, easy recipe
