Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Orzo and Vegetables
- 1½ cups orzo pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup spinach
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- ½ cup parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon parsley
Optional Ingredients:
- Mushrooms
- Mozzarella cheese
- Red pepper flakes
- Asparagus
- Sun-dried tomatoes
Recommended Kitchenware:
- Large skillet
- Nonstick cookware sets
- Silicone spatula
- Meal prep containers
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Premium cookware sets
Instructions
In a bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes for deeper flavor.
The balsamic marinade helps tenderize the chicken while adding rich sweet tangy flavor.
Reliable cooking tools and premium cookware sets improve skillet cooking consistency.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the chicken pieces for about 5 to 6 minutes until golden and fully cooked.
Transfer the chicken to a plate and keep warm.
Golden seared chicken creates deeper flavor throughout the entire skillet meal.
In the same skillet, add garlic, zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes.
Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until slightly softened.
Add spinach and stir until wilted.
Fresh vegetables from grocery deals and organic food brands create vibrant flavor and texture.
Add the orzo pasta directly into the skillet with the vegetables.
Pour in chicken broth and stir well.
Simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo becomes tender and creamy.
The orzo absorbs the savory broth and vegetable flavors while creating rich comforting texture.
Durable cookware sets help maintain even heat for one pan pasta recipes.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
Stir in balsamic glaze, parmesan cheese, and parsley.
Allow everything to heat through for another 2 minutes.
Serve warm garnished with extra parmesan cheese or fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- Stir the orzo occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Fresh parmesan creates smoother flavor than packaged cheese.
- Do not overcook the vegetables.
- Durable cookware sets improve one pan cooking consistency.
- Store leftovers in airtight meal prep containers for up to 4 days.
Many home kitchen tips recommend adding spinach near the end for best texture and color.