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Balsamic Chicken with Creamy Pesto Rice

Balsamic Chicken with Creamy Pesto Rice
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Balsamic Chicken with Creamy Pesto Rice is a flavorful and satisfying dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a tangy balsamic glaze paired with rich, creamy pesto-infused Arborio rice. This recipe balances bold, savory, and tangy elements with smooth, herbaceous textures, making it perfect for both casual weeknights and elegant dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Balsamic Glaze

  • 4 chicken breasts or thighs, boneless and skinless
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Creamy Pesto Rice

  • 1 cup Arborio rice (or any short-grain rice)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cups chicken broth, warmed
  • 1/3 cup fresh basil pesto
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Season chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
  2. Make the balsamic glaze: In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant. Pour in the balsamic vinegar and simmer for a few minutes until it reduces and thickens into a glaze.
  3. Start the creamy pesto rice: In a separate pot, heat olive oil and lightly toast the Arborio rice until edges appear translucent. Gradually add warm chicken broth while stirring constantly, cooking until the rice becomes tender and creamy, similar to risotto.
  4. Combine pesto and cheese into rice: Once the rice is creamy and cooked through, remove from heat. Stir in fresh basil pesto and grated Parmesan cheese, adjusting salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Finish cooking chicken in glaze: Return the chicken to the pan with the reduced balsamic glaze. Coat the chicken thoroughly and cook for a few more minutes to let the flavors meld.
  6. Serve and enjoy: Plate the creamy pesto rice and top or accompany with the balsamic glazed chicken. Drizzle extra balsamic glaze over the dish if desired for added tangy sweetness.

Notes

  • Use room temperature chicken for even cooking and juiciness.
  • Stir the rice slowly and add broth gradually to achieve the perfect creamy texture.
  • Choose good-quality fresh basil pesto and olive oil for the best flavor.
  • Watch the balsamic glaze closely to prevent burning or over-thickening.
  • Let chicken rest briefly after cooking to redistribute juices.

Nutrition

Keywords: balsamic chicken, creamy pesto rice, one-pan meal, Italian inspired, gluten free, easy dinner, chicken dinner, pesto rice

Find it online: https://elenaglam.com/balsamic-chicken-with-creamy-pesto-rice/