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Balsamic chicken orzo with spinach, tomatoes, and tender chicken served in a bowl

Balsamic Chicken Orzo with Spinach One-Pan Dinner Recipe

Balsamic chicken orzo is a hearty one-pan dinner with tender chicken, creamy orzo texture, and a savory balsamic flavor. It is an easy weeknight meal that combines comforting ingredients in a simple skillet dish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken
  • 2 chicken breasts
Orzo and Broth
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
Vegetables and Flavorings
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup spinach
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, as needed
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced (optional)
Serving and Garnish
  • Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Method
 

Cooking
  1. Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper, then cook for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and the chicken reaches 165°F / 74°C. Transfer the chicken out of the skillet and set aside.
  2. Cook the minced garlic in the same skillet for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the orzo pasta and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender and has absorbed the broth.
  4. Mix in the cherry tomatoes and spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften.
  5. Stir the balsamic vinegar into the orzo mixture until evenly combined.
  6. Place the chicken breasts back into the skillet and simmer for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
  7. Finish the balsamic chicken orzo with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Notes

Add extra broth when reheating leftovers because the orzo continues to absorb liquid while stored.