Grilled Chicken with Blueberries Balsamic Glaze & Feta Orzo Salad
Grilled Chicken with Blueberries Balsamic Glaze & Feta Orzo Salad is a delicious and colorful meal. The juicy grilled chicken pairs perfectly with the sweet and tangy blueberry balsamic glaze. Meanwhile, the orzo salad adds a refreshing touch with crunchy cucumber and creamy feta cheese. This dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a great choice for several reasons. First, it combines healthy ingredients that are good for you. Chicken is a great source of protein, blueberries are full of antioxidants, and the orzo salad adds veggies and carbs. Second, it is quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners. Finally, the bright colors and flavors make this dish a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.
How to Make Grilled Chicken with Blueberries Balsamic Glaze & Feta Orzo Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3/4 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or mint
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Grill the chicken over medium heat for about 5–6 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes and then slice it.
- In a small saucepan, combine blueberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard.
- Simmer over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring and lightly mashing some of the blueberries to make a glaze.
- Cook the orzo according to the package directions. Drain and rinse under cool water.
- Toss the cooked orzo with diced cucumber, crumbled feta, herbs, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Plate the sliced grilled chicken over the orzo salad and drizzle generously with the blueberry balsamic glaze.
- Serve immediately.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken with Blueberries Balsamic Glaze & Feta Orzo Salad
Serve this dish warm on a large plate. The vibrant orzo salad should be the base, topped with the sliced grilled chicken. Finish it off with a good drizzle of the blueberry balsamic glaze for extra flavor. You can also add a slice of lemon on the side for garnish.
How to Store Grilled Chicken with Blueberries Balsamic Glaze & Feta Orzo Salad
To store leftovers, place the chicken and salad in an airtight container. Refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Make sure to keep the blueberry balsamic glaze in a separate container to keep it fresh.
Tips to Make Grilled Chicken with Blueberries Balsamic Glaze & Feta Orzo Salad
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken; it should be juicy.
- Feel free to add other vegetables you like to the orzo salad, such as bell peppers or cherry tomatoes.
- If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add a little more honey.
Variation
You can swap orzo for quinoa or rice if you want a different base. For a vegetarian dish, replace the chicken with grilled zucchini or portobello mushrooms.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but fresh blueberries work best for this recipe.
2. How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
3. Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the orzo salad and the glaze in advance but toss them together just before serving for best results.