Grilled Chicken with Strawberry Balsamic Glaze & Ricotta Salata Orzo Salad
Grilled Chicken with Strawberry Balsamic Glaze & Ricotta Salata Orzo Salad is a delightful dish that blends savory and sweet flavors. The juicy grilled chicken pairs beautifully with the tangy strawberry glaze, while the orzo salad adds freshness and creaminess. This recipe is perfect for a summer dinner or a picnic.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great because it combines both healthy ingredients and delicious flavors. The chicken is packed with protein, and the strawberries provide a natural sweetness along with antioxidants. Plus, making the orzo salad adds a refreshing crunch, making this dish light and satisfying. You’ll impress your family and friends with this easy yet elegant meal!
How to Make Grilled Chicken with Strawberry Balsamic Glaze & Ricotta Salata Orzo Salad
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and halved
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/3 cup crumbled ricotta salata (or feta)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Grill the chicken for 5–6 minutes on each side or until it is cooked through. Allow it to rest before slicing.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine strawberries, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring and gently mashing the strawberries until the mixture is thick and syrupy.
- While the strawberries cook, prepare the orzo. Cook it according to the package instructions. After draining, rinse the pasta under cold water.
- In a bowl, toss the orzo with cucumber, basil, red onion, ricotta salata, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Serve the sliced chicken over the orzo salad and drizzle the strawberry balsamic glaze on top. Garnish with extra herbs if desired.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken with Strawberry Balsamic Glaze & Ricotta Salata Orzo Salad
This dish can be served warm or at room temperature. Plate the orzo salad on a dish, place the grilled chicken slices on top, and drizzle the strawberry balsamic glaze. You can add extra basil or a sprinkle of salt for garnish. This meal is perfect for serving at family gatherings, dinner parties, or enjoying on a casual weeknight.
How to Store Grilled Chicken with Strawberry Balsamic Glaze & Ricotta Salata Orzo Salad
To store leftovers, place the chicken and orzo salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken gently in a pan or microwave. The orzo salad can be served cold or at room temperature.
Tips to Make Grilled Chicken with Strawberry Balsamic Glaze & Ricotta Salata Orzo Salad
- Make sure to let the chicken rest after grilling. This keeps it juicy.
- Adjust the sweetness of the glaze by adding more or less honey to your taste.
- Use fresh basil for the best flavor; dried herbs won’t be as vibrant.
- You can substitute orzo with any pasta you prefer, such as farro or quinoa.
Variation
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other vegetables to the orzo salad. Cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or arugula can also add great color and flavor. If you prefer a different protein, grilled shrimp or tofu can work well in place of chicken.
FAQs
Q: What is ricotta salata?
A: Ricotta salata is a firm, aged cheese made from sheep’s milk. It has a mild, salty flavor and is great for crumbling over salads.
Q: Can I make the glaze in advance?
A: Yes, you can make the strawberry balsamic glaze a day ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just warm it slightly before serving.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
A: Absolutely! Both the chicken and orzo salad can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for meal prepping for the week.
Enjoy your delicious Grilled Chicken with Strawberry Balsamic Glaze & Ricotta Salata Orzo Salad!
