Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Feta & Sautéed Spinach (with Rhubarb Twist)
Introduction
Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Feta & Sautéed Spinach (with Rhubarb Twist) is a delightful dish that brings together the juicy flavor of chicken, the creamy richness of feta, and the vibrant taste of sautéed spinach. The addition of a rhubarb twist adds a surprising yet delicious element that makes this recipe stand out. Perfect for dinner parties or a cozy family meal, this dish is sure to impress!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not just tasty; it is also quite simple to prepare. The flavors blend beautifully, with the sweet balsamic glaze on the chicken complementing the savory orzo and feta. Plus, the sautéed spinach adds a healthy touch to your meal. The unique addition of rhubarb creates a sweet and tangy sauce that enhances the overall experience. It’s a perfect dish for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty yet wholesome meal.
How to Make Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Feta & Sautéed Spinach (with Rhubarb Twist)
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for chicken)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (for chicken)
- 1 teaspoon honey (for chicken)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Zest of 1/2 lemon
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 teaspoon olive oil (for spinach)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Pinch of salt (for spinach)
- 1/2 cup rhubarb, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (for rhubarb twist)
- 1 teaspoon honey (for rhubarb twist)
- Pinch of salt (for rhubarb twist)
- Extra crumbled feta for garnish
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Directions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts with this mixture and let them marinate for 15 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side until fully cooked and glazed. Remove from the skillet and let the chicken rest.
- In a saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the orzo, dried oregano, and lemon zest. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10-12 minutes until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir in butter and crumbled feta.
- In a separate pan, sauté minced garlic in olive oil for about 30 seconds. Then add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Season with a pinch of salt.
- For the rhubarb twist, combine rhubarb, balsamic vinegar, honey, and salt in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, until the rhubarb softens and the mixture thickens.
- To assemble, plate the feta orzo and top with sautéed spinach and sliced glazed chicken. Drizzle the warm rhubarb balsamic reduction over everything. Garnish with extra feta and herbs.
How to Serve Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Feta & Sautéed Spinach (with Rhubarb Twist)
This dish can be served warm on a large platter or plated individually for each guest. Make sure to give everyone a generous drizzle of the rhubarb balsamic reduction for added flavor. Pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a full meal.
How to Store Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Feta & Sautéed Spinach (with Rhubarb Twist)
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
Tips to Make Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Feta & Sautéed Spinach (with Rhubarb Twist)
- Make sure to allow the chicken to marinate for the full 15 minutes to enhance the flavor.
- Stir the orzo occasionally while it cooks to prevent sticking.
- If rhubarb is not available, you can substitute it with chopped strawberries or raspberries for a different twist.
- Feel free to add more vegetables, like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers, to the orzo for added color and nutrition.
Variation
For a low-carb option, you can replace orzo with cauliflower rice. Simply sauté cauliflower rice in the same broth mixture until tender. You can also use grilled shrimp or turkey instead of chicken for a different protein.
FAQs
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and orzo in advance and store them separately. Just reheat them before serving.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: No, traditional orzo is made from wheat. To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free pasta alternative.
Q: Can I omit the rhubarb twist?
A: Yes, you can skip the rhubarb twist if you prefer a simpler dish. The chicken and orzo are delicious on their own!
