Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Orzo (Printable Version)
Grilled chicken with a strawberry balsamic glaze paired with lemony herb orzo and crumbled cheese.
# 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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
01 -
Bringing chicken to room temperature before grilling ensures even cooking and juiciness.
02 -
Slowly simmer the glaze to avoid harsh acidity and develop mellow sweetness.
03 -
Add fresh herbs to orzo just before serving to preserve brightness and aroma.