Name: One Pan Balsamic Chicken: A Delicious 35-Minute Meal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup bell peppers, diced (red, yellow, or green); 1 cup zucchini, sliced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

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One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together juicy chicken, flavorful orzo, and vibrant vegetables, all cooked in one pan. This recipe is an ideal solution for busy weeknights, as it takes just 35 minutes from start to finish. The combination of balsamic vinegar and fresh ingredients creates a harmonious balance of flavors that will impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the world of this simple yet delicious meal!

Why You’ll Love This One Pan Balsamic Chicken

This balsamic chicken recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, tasty meal. Here are several reasons to love it:

It’s a quick balsamic chicken meal that can be prepared in just 35 minutes.
One pan means easy cleanup, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.
Loaded with colorful vegetables, it’s a healthy choice for your family.
Versatile ingredients allow for customization, using what you have on hand.
This dish is great for meal prep; simply portion it out for later.
The one skillet balsamic chicken method ensures even cooking and flavor infusion.
It features a delicious blend of Italian flavors, making it a satisfying meal.

Ingredients for One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Gather these items:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup bell peppers, diced (red, yellow, or green)
1 cup zucchini, sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large skillet or pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
Step 3: Stir in the onion, garlic, bell peppers, and zucchini. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
Step 4: Add the orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring to combine with the chicken and vegetables.
Step 5: Add the chicken broth and balsamic vinegar, stirring well to combine.
Step 6: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Step 7: Gently fold in the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Step 8: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step 9: Remove from heat, and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

One Pan Balsamic Chicken: A Delicious 35-Minute Meal - One Pan Balsamic Chicken - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Keep these in mind:

This dish can be served warm or at room temperature.
Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For a creamier version, you can stir in some cream or cheese at the end.
Make sure to cut the chicken into even pieces for uniform cooking.

Best Ways to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken

This dish is fantastic on its own, but here are some great serving suggestions:

Serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Pair it with a light salad for a refreshing contrast.
Top with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost.

How to Store and Reheat One Pan Balsamic Chicken

To store leftovers, simply place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the stovetop or microwave. If you’re prepping meals, this recipe is perfect for meal prep as you can portion it out for the week ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions About One Pan Balsamic Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

The secret lies in properly seasoning the chicken and allowing it to sear before adding the vegetables. This enhances the flavor and ensures juicy results.

Can I make One Pan Balsamic Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it before serving for a quick meal!

How do I avoid common mistakes with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

Make sure to monitor the cooking time and avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures even cooking and prevents the chicken from steaming.

Variations of One Pan Balsamic Chicken You Can Try

There are many ways to customize this dish:

For a healthier option, you can add more vegetables like spinach or kale.
Try substituting the orzo with quinoa or brown rice for a different grain.
Add in some spices or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
For a Mediterranean twist, include olives or artichokes.

One Pan Balsamic Chicken: A Delicious 35-Minute Meal - One Pan Balsamic Chicken - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Tuscan Scallops or Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken. If you’re interested in meal prep ideas, consider One Pan Cheesy Ranch for a quick and easy option.

For additional information on the health benefits of balsamic vinegar, you can visit Healthline.