Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Feta & Sautéed Spinach

Why Make This Recipe

Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Feta & Sautéed Spinach is a wonderful meal that brings together tasty ingredients and lovely flavors. The chicken is juicy, the orzo is satisfying, and the spinach adds a fresh touch. This dish is not only delicious but also quite easy to prepare. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Plus, it looks impressive on the plate!

How to Make Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Feta & Sautéed Spinach

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup dry orzo pasta
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sear for 5–6 minutes per side or until fully cooked.
3. In the last 2 minutes, pour the glaze over the chicken and cook until it thickens and looks glossy. Remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest.
4. Meanwhile, cook the orzo according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.
5. In a large pan, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
6. Add the spinach and sauté until it wilts.
7. Stir in the cooked orzo with the spinach. Add the crumbled feta and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Slice the balsamic-glazed chicken and serve it over the orzo mixture. Drizzle with extra glaze if desired.

How to Serve Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Feta & Sautéed Spinach

This dish is best served warm. Place a generous portion of the orzo mixture on each plate, then top it with sliced chicken. For added flavor, you can drizzle extra balsamic glaze over the entire dish. Pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Feta & Sautéed Spinach

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. When you are ready to eat, you can reheat it in a microwave or on the stove until warm.

Tips to Make Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Feta & Sautéed Spinach

• Make sure not to overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender.
• Adjust the amount of balsamic glaze based on your taste preference.
• You can add other vegetables like tomatoes or bell peppers for variety.
• If you like more flavor, try marinating the chicken in the glaze for a couple of hours before cooking.

Variation

For a different twist, you can use quinoa instead of orzo. You could also substitute the feta cheese with goat cheese for a creamier texture. Grilled vegetables can also be added to enhance the dish’s nutritional value.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even cooking.

2. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and orzo ahead of time. Just heat them up before serving. However, it’s best to add the feta and sautéed spinach fresh to maintain their texture.