Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Feta and Herbed Rhubarb Relish
Introduction
Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Feta and Herbed Rhubarb Relish is a delicious and colorful dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its tender chicken, creamy feta, and tangy rhubarb relish, it’s a meal that will impress everyone at the table.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is worth making because it is quick and easy to prepare, yet it delivers a lot of flavor. The balsamic glaze adds sweetness and depth to the chicken, while the orzo pasta provides a nice texture. The herbed rhubarb relish brings a unique twist that brightens the dish. Plus, it’s filled with fresh ingredients that are packed with nutrients!
How to Make Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Feta and Herbed Rhubarb Relish
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup fresh rhubarb, finely diced
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh mint
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh basil
- Pinch of salt
Directions
- In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken to the bowl and marinate for at least 20 minutes.
- Cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain it, then toss it with olive oil, feta, parsley, salt, and pepper. Set this aside.
- In a small saucepan, combine rhubarb, honey, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Simmer over low heat for 10–12 minutes until the rhubarb softens and thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the mint and basil.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for 5–6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and glazed. Let it rest before slicing.
- To serve, spoon orzo onto plates, top with sliced chicken, and finish with a generous dollop of herbed rhubarb relish.
How to Serve Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Feta and Herbed Rhubarb Relish
Serve this dish warm, with the orzo as a base, topped with the sliced balsamic glazed chicken. Add the herbed rhubarb relish on top for a burst of flavor. It can be garnished with extra parsley for a colorful presentation.
How to Store Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Feta and Herbed Rhubarb Relish
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
Tips to Make Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Feta and Herbed Rhubarb Relish
- Make sure to let the chicken marinate for the full 20 minutes to ensure maximum flavor.
- If you can’t find fresh rhubarb, you can substitute it with tart apples or use a store-bought relish.
- Feel free to add more herbs or vegetables to the orzo for extra nutrition and flavor.
Variation
You can easily customize this dish by using different proteins like shrimp or tofu. You can also try using different types of cheese or adding vegetables such as spinach and bell peppers to the orzo.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can use any small pasta shape that you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. Can I make the rhubarb relish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the rhubarb relish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, orzo pasta is typically made with wheat. However, there are gluten-free orzo alternatives available in stores that you can use.
