One-Pan Balsamic Chicken Orzo – Healthy Dinner in Under 30 Minutes

Hi there, food lover! 👋 If you’re craving a meal that feels wholesome, comforting, and just a little bit elegant—without spending hours in the kitchen—this One-Pan Balsamic Chicken Orzo is exactly what you need. It’s the kind of dish that proves healthy dinners can be both satisfying and full of flavor, even on the busiest of nights. 🌿✨

One-pan meals have always held a special place in traditional home cooking. They’re practical, economical, and designed to bring families together around the table with minimal fuss. This recipe follows that same philosophy. Tender chicken, delicate orzo pasta, and a rich balsamic glaze come together in a single skillet, allowing every ingredient to absorb flavor as it cooks. The result is a dish that tastes far more complex than the effort it requires. ❤️

Balsamic vinegar adds a gentle tang and subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory chicken and herbs. Orzo, a rice-shaped pasta loved in Mediterranean-inspired cooking, soaks up the sauce and becomes wonderfully creamy without needing cream. Everything finishes together in one pan, meaning fewer dishes and more time to enjoy your evening. Whether you’re cooking for family or just for yourself, this is a cozy, nourishing dinner you’ll come back to again and again. 😌🍽️

🍗🍝 Ingredients 🍝🍗

For the Chicken & Orzo:

• 1 ½ lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth

For the Balsamic Flavor:

• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano or thyme

Optional Add-Ins & Garnish:

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• Fresh spinach or kale
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley

🔥🥄 Step-by-Step Directions 🥄🔥

1. Season the chicken on both sides with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until lightly golden. Remove and set aside (it will finish cooking later).
4. In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add garlic, stirring briefly until fragrant.
5. Pour in the balsamic vinegar and honey, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
6. Stir in the orzo and chicken broth, mixing well so the pasta is evenly distributed.
7. Nestle the chicken back into the pan, along with any juices.
8. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the orzo is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
9. Add tomatoes or spinach if using, allowing them to wilt slightly.
10. Taste and adjust seasoning, then garnish with fresh herbs and Parmesan before serving. 🍝🍗

🥗🍋 Nutritional Information 🍋🥗

This one-pan balsamic chicken orzo is a well-rounded dinner that offers protein, carbohydrates, and comforting flavors in balance. Chicken provides lean protein, while orzo gives energy and satisfaction. Using olive oil and balsamic vinegar keeps the dish light yet flavorful.

⏰ Prep Time: 10 minutes
🔥 Cooking Time: 15–18 minutes
⏳ Total Time: Under 30 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: ~410
🍽️ Servings: 4

✨ Notes ✨

• Chicken thighs add extra richness, while breasts keep it lean.
• Swap orzo for whole wheat orzo if desired. 🌾
• Add mushrooms or zucchini for extra vegetables.
• Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stove.

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Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩🍳🍽️