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Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Orzo

Category: Satisfying Main Dishes

This dish features juicy grilled chicken enhanced by a sweet and tangy strawberry balsamic reduction. The chicken rests with a glossy glaze full of bright fruity notes that balance the savory flavors. Tender orzo is tossed with olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs such as basil and mint, along with crumbled ricotta salata to give a creamy tang. The result is a colorful plate that celebrates freshness and simplicity, perfect for spring and summer gatherings. Simple grilling and a quick fruity sauce meld beautifully for a satisfying, elegant entrée.

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Updated on Fri, 19 Dec 2025 19:36:10 GMT
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A plate of food with chicken, strawberries, and lettuce. | easydiyrecipes.com

Juicy grilled chicken gets a delicious lift with a sweet-tangy strawberry balsamic glaze while tender orzo dressed with olive oil, lemon, fresh basil, mint, and crumbled ricotta salata offers a bright and herby base. This dish beautifully balances fruity and savory flavors and comes together quickly using fresh, simple ingredients. It makes for a colorful and elegant entrée perfect for spring or summer dining.

When I first made this for my friends they thought strawberries with chicken sounded unusual but now it is the most requested meal when we gather each summer.

Ingredients

  • Chicken breasts: bring lean protein and soak up the glaze best when chosen plump and pink without spots
  • Fresh strawberries: add vibrant color and sweet brightness so pick firm berries deeply red for optimal flavor
  • Balsamic vinegar: delivers punchy fruity acidity, ideally a thick aged variety to enrich the glaze
  • Honey: provides round sweetness and helps thicken the sauce; mild floral types work best
  • Salt and pepper: season and enhance all flavors, use freshly cracked pepper if you can
  • Olive oil: adds richness and aids browning, go for extra virgin for its aroma
  • Orzo pasta: cooks quickly and soaks up citrus and herbs nicely; select one made from quality durum wheat
  • Ricotta salata or feta: crumbled on top adds creamy tang and a fresh bite; look for a young cheese with bright milky notes
  • Fresh basil: contributes sweet and peppery fragrance, choose vibrant green leaves free of bruises
  • Fresh mint: lends a cool herbal lift, pick crisp leaves to avoid bitterness
  • Lemon juice: provides brightness that keeps the orzo lively
  • Salt and pepper: adjust balance in the orzo seasoning
  • Olive oil: binds flavors and adds silkiness when tossed with the warm orzo

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:
Pat chicken breasts completely dry using paper towels to help achieve a good sear. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Let the chicken rest on the counter for 15 minutes so it cooks evenly and stays tender.
Make the Strawberry Balsamic Reduction:
Dice the strawberries to release their juices. Combine them in a small saucepan with balsamic vinegar and honey. Gently simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries break down into a jammy thick sauce that coats a spoon. This takes about 15 minutes and concentrates the flavors.
Cook the Orzo:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain well and immediately transfer it to a large bowl while still warm to absorb the dressing.
Toss Herbed Orzo:
While warm, drizzle the orzo with olive oil and lemon juice, stirring to coat evenly. Add chopped basil and mint along with salt and pepper to taste. Gently fold in the crumbled ricotta salata, careful not to overmix so the texture stays light and airy.
Grill the Chicken:
Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium high heat. Brush the chicken with olive oil on both sides to prevent sticking. Grill each side for 6 to 7 minutes without moving too much, allowing nice grill marks and caramelization to develop. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest covered for 5 minutes so the juices settle.
Assemble and Serve:
Slice the rested chicken diagonally for a restaurant presentation. Divide the herbed orzo onto plates. Top with chicken slices and spoon the strawberry balsamic reduction over the top so it runs down the sides. Finish with extra fresh herbs and more crumbled cheese for brightness and flavor.
A plate of food with chicken, rice, and strawberries. Pin
A plate of food with chicken, rice, and strawberries. | easydiyrecipes.com

Strawberries add magic in this savory setting, the natural sweet acidity paired with balsamic vinegar creates a gorgeous glossy sauce that is one of my all-time favorites. One family picnic stands out where I served this dish with mint picked fresh from my grandmother’s garden making the moment even more special.

Storage Tips

Store leftover chicken and orzo separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat the chicken gently in a covered skillet with a splash of water to keep it moist. The orzo is delicious both cold or warmed gently, so you have options.

Ingredient Substitutions

If strawberries are not available, raspberries or blackberries offer a tasty twist. Swap ricotta salata for crumbled feta or goat cheese to keep a creamy, tangy texture. For a dairy free version, omit the cheese and add toasted pine nuts to the orzo for crunch and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a crisp leafy green salad or steamed snap peas for a fresh side. When serving for company, a chilled rosé wine and a rustic bread loaf to soak up the strawberry glaze elevate the meal. Garnish the chicken with extra fresh mint for an aromatic finish.

A Little History

Fruit paired with savory proteins has long been a tradition in Mediterranean cuisines. Italians specifically favor aged balsamic vinegar combined with strawberries. This recipe takes inspiration from that heritage, merging sweet, herbaceous, and tangy notes for a harmonious plate.

A plate of food with chicken, strawberries, and blue cheese. Pin
A plate of food with chicken, strawberries, and blue cheese. | easydiyrecipes.com

Pro Tips

  • Let the chicken come to room temperature before grilling for even cooking and juiciness
  • Do not rush the strawberry balsamic reduction so the flavors mellow instead of tasting harsh
  • Add fresh herbs to the orzo just before serving to keep them vibrant and bright

Recipe FAQs

→ What does the strawberry balsamic glaze add to the chicken?

It brings a sweet-tart, fruity brightness that enhances the savory grilled chicken, creating a balanced flavor.

→ Can I substitute ricotta salata with other cheeses?

Yes, crumbled feta or goat cheese work well for a tangy, creamy bite in the orzo.

→ How do I ensure the orzo is flavorful?

Toss warm orzo with olive oil, lemon juice, fresh basil, and mint, then season with salt and pepper to brighten flavors.

→ What’s the best method to cook the chicken?

Grill over medium-high heat for juicy meat with caramelized grill marks and rest briefly to keep it tender.

→ Can the strawberry balsamic glaze be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, make the glaze in advance, chill it, and gently warm before serving for easier final assembly.

Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Orzo

Grilled chicken with a strawberry balsamic glaze paired with lemony herb orzo and crumbled cheese.

Prep Time
20 min
Cook Time
25 min
Total Time
45 min
By: Evelyn

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Medium

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Yield: 2 Servings (2 portions)

Dietary Preferences: ~

Ingredients

→ Chicken

01 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, approximately 170-200 g each
02 Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
03 15 ml extra virgin olive oil, for brushing

→ Strawberry Balsamic Glaze

04 150 g fresh strawberries, diced
05 60 ml aged balsamic vinegar
06 15 ml mild floral honey

→ Herbed Orzo

07 150 g orzo pasta (preferably durum wheat)
08 15 ml extra virgin olive oil
09 15 ml fresh lemon juice
10 10 g fresh basil, finely chopped
11 10 g fresh mint, finely chopped
12 60 g ricotta salata, crumbled
13 Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Steps

Step 01

Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Let rest at room temperature for 15 minutes to promote even cooking.

Step 02

Combine diced strawberries, balsamic vinegar, and honey in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat, stirring gently until strawberries break down and sauce thickens to coat a spoon, about 15 minutes.

Step 03

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add orzo and cook until al dente, approximately 8 to 10 minutes. Drain thoroughly and transfer immediately to a large bowl while warm.

Step 04

While orzo is warm, drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Stir to coat evenly. Add chopped basil, mint, salt, and pepper. Gently fold in crumbled ricotta salata, maintaining a light texture.

Step 05

Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Brush chicken breasts with olive oil on both sides to prevent sticking. Grill for 6 to 7 minutes per side without excessive movement to develop caramelized grill marks. Cook until internal temperature reaches 74°C. Rest on a plate covered loosely for 5 minutes.

Step 06

Slice rested chicken breasts diagonally. Divide herbed orzo among plates, top with chicken slices, and spoon strawberry balsamic reduction over. Garnish with additional fresh herbs and crumbled cheese as desired.

Notes

  1. Bringing chicken to room temperature before grilling ensures even cooking and juiciness.
  2. Slowly simmer the glaze to avoid harsh acidity and develop mellow sweetness.
  3. Add fresh herbs to orzo just before serving to preserve brightness and aroma.

Tools Required

  • Grill pan or outdoor grill
  • Small saucepan
  • Pot for boiling pasta
  • Large mixing bowl

Allergy Info

Double-check all ingredients to spot potential allergens. Consult a healthcare professional if uncertain.
  • Contains dairy (ricotta salata)
  • Contains gluten (orzo made from durum wheat)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

These details are for informational purposes only and shouldn’t replace professional medical advice.
  • Calories: 550
  • Fats: 18 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Proteins: 45 g