Grilled Chicken with Fig and Balsamic Glaze & Lemon Herb Orzo Salad
Grilled Chicken with Fig and Balsamic Glaze paired with a Lemon Herb Orzo Salad is a delicious and refreshing meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The sweet and tangy glaze on the chicken brings out a unique flavor that pairs beautifully with the bright and zesty orzo salad. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a simple weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a great choice for several reasons. First, it combines the rich flavors of grilled chicken and fig glaze, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s full of depth. Second, the orzo salad adds a refreshing touch that is light and full of herbs. It’s also quick to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a healthy meal packed with protein, wholesome grains, and fresh herbs—perfect for anyone looking to eat well!
How to Make Grilled Chicken with Fig and Balsamic Glaze & Lemon Herb Orzo Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for chicken)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fig jam
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for salad)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 2 tbsp chopped dill
- Salt and pepper, to taste (for salad)
Directions:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Grill the chicken for 6–7 minutes on each side, or until it is fully cooked.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the fig jam and balsamic vinegar.
- Brush the glaze over the chicken during the last 2 minutes of grilling.
- Once done, set the chicken aside to rest.
- While the chicken rests, cook the orzo according to the package directions. After cooking, drain and cool the orzo.
- Toss the cooled orzo with olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper.
- Slice the grilled chicken and serve it over or alongside the orzo salad.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken with Fig and Balsamic Glaze & Lemon Herb Orzo Salad
To serve this dish, arrange the sliced grilled chicken on a plate and add a generous portion of the lemon herb orzo salad next to it. You can garnish with extra herbs or a drizzle of olive oil if desired. This meal is great served warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
How to Store Grilled Chicken with Fig and Balsamic Glaze & Lemon Herb Orzo Salad
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating the grilled chicken, do so gently in the microwave or on the stove to prevent it from drying out. The orzo salad can also be enjoyed cold, making it perfect for quick lunches.
Tips to Make Grilled Chicken with Fig and Balsamic Glaze & Lemon Herb Orzo Salad
- Make sure the grill is hot before adding the chicken. This helps to create nice grill marks and locks in moisture.
- Allow the chicken to rest after grilling; this keeps it juicy and flavorful.
- Adjust the herbs in the orzo salad to your taste. You can include other fresh herbs like basil or cilantro.
- For a kick of flavor, add some chopped red onion or feta cheese to the orzo salad.
Variation
If you’re looking to change things up, try using different fruits for the glaze, like apricot or peach jam. You can also substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well for this recipe. They tend to be more flavorful and stay juicy when grilled.
2. Is orzo pasta gluten-free?
Traditional orzo pasta is made from wheat and is not gluten-free. However, you can find gluten-free orzo made from rice or other grains.
3. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this.
Enjoy your cooking adventure with Grilled Chicken with Fig and Balsamic Glaze & Lemon Herb Orzo Salad! It’s a simple, tasty dish that is sure to be a hit.
