Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Feta & Sautéed Spinach
introduction
Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Feta & Sautéed Spinach is a delicious and wholesome meal that combines savory chicken, tender orzo pasta, fresh spinach, and tangy feta cheese. This recipe is not only easy to make but also offers a delightful mix of flavors that will please your family and friends.
why make this recipe
This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to prepare something special without spending hours in the kitchen. It uses simple ingredients you can find at any grocery store, and the combination of balsamic vinegar and honey creates a rich glaze that adds depth to the chicken. Plus, the addition of spinach and feta brings a fresh twist to the plate.
how to make Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Feta & Sautéed Spinach
Making this dish is straightforward. You will season and cook the chicken, create a flavorful balsamic glaze, and mix it all with orzo and sautéed spinach. Follow the steps below to get started.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup finely diced fresh rhubarb
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Directions:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes on each side, or until it turns golden brown and is fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add balsamic vinegar, honey, and rhubarb. Bring this mixture to a simmer and cook for 5–7 minutes until the rhubarb softens and the glaze thickens.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the glaze. Let it cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook the orzo according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- In a separate pan, sauté garlic in a drizzle of olive oil, then add the spinach and cook until it wilts.
- Toss the cooked orzo with the sautéed spinach, lemon zest, and crumbled feta.
- Serve the chicken over the orzo mixture and spoon the balsamic rhubarb glaze on top. Garnish with parsley if desired.
how to serve Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Feta & Sautéed Spinach
Serve this dish warm, ensuring each plate has a generous portion of both the orzo mixture and the glazed chicken. This meal is great for family dinners or when you have guests over, as it presents beautifully and tastes amazing.
how to store Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Feta & Sautéed Spinach
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through before serving again.
tips to make Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Feta & Sautéed Spinach
- Make sure to not overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender.
- You can add any other vegetables you like, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to the orzo mixture for added nutrition.
- For a little heat, add red pepper flakes to the sautéed spinach.
variation
For a lighter version, you can use turkey breasts instead of chicken. If you’re looking to make it vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with chickpeas or beans for a filling option without meat.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can use any small pasta shape like couscous or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
2. What can I use if I can’t find fresh rhubarb?
If fresh rhubarb is unavailable, you can use cranberry sauce or skip it altogether if you prefer a sweeter glaze.
3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them just before serving to keep the chicken and orzo fresh.
Enjoy your Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Feta & Sautéed Spinach!
