
A vibrant and comforting one-pan meal featuring tender marinated chicken and creamy orzo pasta simmered in a rich tomato broth. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish delivers authentic Italian flavors with minimal cleanup.
In a large bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, 1 tbsp olive oil, Dijon mustard, 1 tsp Italian herbs, 1 minced garlic clove, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, toss to coat thoroughly, and marinate for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours) in the refrigerator.
Heat a large skillet or pot over medium heat with a splash of oil. Sear the chicken for about 4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate, cover with foil to keep warm, and let it rest.
Increase the heat to medium-high. If the pan is dry, add another teaspoon of oil to the skillet.
Add the diced onion and remaining minced garlic, sautéing for 2 minutes. Stir in the chopped red bell pepper and cook for another minute until the onion becomes translucent.
Stir in the orzo (risoni), crushed tomatoes, chicken stock, remaining Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for 9–10 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure the pasta doesn't stick to the bottom.
Remove the pan from the stove when the orzo is just tender (al dente). The mixture should still be slightly saucy, as it will continue to thicken from the residual heat.
Stir in the grated parmesan and fresh basil leaves. The cheese will melt into the sauce, creating a creamy finish.
Spoon the orzo into serving bowls and top with the rested chicken. Garnish with extra parmesan and basil before serving.
If you're short on time, you can skip the marinating step and simply season the chicken directly before searing. For a creamier finish, stir in a splash of heavy cream along with the parmesan. Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days; you may need to add a splash of water when reheating as the orzo absorbs liquid over time.





