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Balsamic Chicken Orzo with Roasted Veggies & Goat Cheese Recipe

Balsamic Chicken Orzo with Roasted Veggies & Goat Cheese Recipe
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★★★★★

5 from 19 reviews

This Balsamic Chicken Orzo with Roasted Veggies & Goat Cheese is a vibrant and flavorful meal combining tender, seasoned chicken breasts with perfectly roasted vegetables, chewy orzo pasta, tangy balsamic vinegar, and creamy goat cheese. It’s a balanced, easy-to-make dish ideal for a nutritious weeknight dinner that is both satisfying and colorful.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Pasta

  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta

Vegetables

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 zucchini, sliced

Seasonings & Oils

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Dairy & Garnish

  • 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Roast Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, toss cherry tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, and sliced zucchini with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and black pepper to taste. Spread the vegetables evenly on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven for about 20 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
  2. Cook the Orzo: While the vegetables are roasting, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain and set the orzo aside.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken breasts. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is thoroughly cooked. Remove from heat and slice the chicken into thin strips.
  4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the cooked orzo, roasted vegetables, and balsamic vinegar. Toss well to evenly distribute the flavors.
  5. Assemble the Dish: Plate the orzo and vegetables mixture first, then arrange the sliced chicken on top. Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese over the dish and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a fragrant and appealing finish.

Notes

  • You can substitute chicken breasts with boneless thighs for a juicier option.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add chickpeas or tofu.
  • To save time, roast the vegetables and cook the orzo simultaneously.
  • Fresh oregano can be used instead of dried oregano for a more vibrant flavor.
  • Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.

Nutrition

Keywords: balsamic chicken, orzo pasta, roasted vegetables, goat cheese, Mediterranean dinner, easy weeknight meal, healthy chicken recipe

Find it online: https://maicook.com/balsamic-chicken-orzo-with-roasted-veggies-and-goat-cheese-recipe-2/