Grilled Chicken with Strawberry Honey and Balsamic Vinegar Mix & Feta Orzo Salad is a delightful dish that combines savory grilled chicken with a sweet and tangy strawberry glaze. This recipe is not only delicious but also colorful, making it a great choice for a family meal or a summer gathering. The feta orzo salad adds a refreshing touch, making every bite a burst of flavor.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe stands out for several reasons. It offers a perfect balance of flavors, with the sweetness of strawberries complementing the savory chicken. The dish is easy to prepare and can be served warm or chilled, making it versatile for any occasion. Additionally, it’s a great way to enjoy fresh strawberries in a savory dish and adds nutrients with the orzo and spinach.
How to Make Grilled Chicken with Strawberry Honey and Balsamic Vinegar Mix & Feta Orzo Salad
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, mashed
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Directions
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Start by preparing the strawberry glaze. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the mashed strawberries, honey, and balsamic vinegar. Let this mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes until it thickens slightly, then set aside.
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Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill them over medium heat for 6–7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. During the last 2 minutes of grilling, brush the chicken with the prepared strawberry glaze. Allow the chicken to rest before slicing.
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While the chicken is grilling, cook the orzo according to the package directions. Once done, drain and rinse it under cold water. Transfer the orzo to a mixing bowl.
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In the bowl with the orzo, toss it with crumbled feta cheese, chopped basil, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to combine well.
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Serve the sliced grilled chicken over a bed of the feta orzo salad and drizzle with any remaining strawberry glaze. Enjoy your meal warm or chilled!
How to Serve Grilled Chicken with Strawberry Honey and Balsamic Vinegar Mix & Feta Orzo Salad
This dish can be served in various ways. You can plate the sliced chicken on top of a generous serving of feta orzo salad. Drizzle with the leftover strawberry glaze for an extra touch. It is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as part of a picnic spread. Chilling it slightly enhances the flavors even more.
How to Store Grilled Chicken with Strawberry Honey and Balsamic Vinegar Mix & Feta Orzo Salad
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken and orzo salad are completely cooled before storing. When ready to eat, you can enjoy it cold or reheat it gently in the microwave.
Tips to Make Grilled Chicken with Strawberry Honey and Balsamic Vinegar Mix & Feta Orzo Salad
- Make sure to mash the strawberries well for an even glaze.
- Don’t skip letting the chicken rest before slicing; this keeps it juicy.
- Customize the salad by adding other fresh vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
- Adjust the sweetness of the glaze by adding more or less honey as per your taste.
Variation
You can easily swap the chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. Additionally, try using different fruits, such as peaches or pineapple, for the glaze to give the dish a new twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen strawberries for the glaze?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before mashing.
2. Is the orzo salad gluten-free?
No, traditional orzo is made from wheat. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free orzo or another gluten-free pasta.
3. How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the strawberry glaze and the orzo salad a day in advance. Just grill the chicken on the day you plan to serve it for the best flavor and freshness.
