Grilled Chicken with Cranberry Balsamic Glaze & Ricotta Orzo Salad

What a joy it is to have you here! 😊 If you’re on the hunt for a flavorful, fast, and fancy-feeling dish that turns heads and delights taste buds, this Grilled Chicken with Cranberry Balsamic Glaze & Ricotta Orzo Salad is just what you need. This recipe brings together juicy grilled chicken with a tangy-sweet glaze and a creamy, lemony orzo salad that’s anything but boring!! 🍋🍗

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Overview of Grilled Chicken with Cranberry Balsamic Glaze & Ricotta Orzo Salad

This recipe is a symphony of flavor and texture. We’ve got smoky grilled chicken kissed with a glossy cranberry balsamic glaze, paired with a refreshing and velvety ricotta orzo salad. It’s light but satisfying, simple yet sophisticated.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick & easy with minimal prep
• Full of flavor, color, and texture
• Perfect for summer grilling or cozy indoor dinners
• Great for meal prep or entertaining guests

The Taste:

The glaze is sweet, tart, and just the right amount of tangy, thanks to balsamic and Dijon. The ricotta orzo brings a creamy, citrusy brightness that balances the savory chicken perfectly.

Benefits:

• Protein-packed and balanced
• Naturally alcohol- and pork-free ✅
• Customizable for various dietary needs
• Makes weekday dinners feel like a celebration 🎉

📝 Ingredients List

For the Chicken & Glaze:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry)
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

For the Ricotta Orzo Salad:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley

🧰 Tools You’ll Need

• Grill or grill pan
• Saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Tongs
• Pasta strainer

🔄 Additions & Substitutions

• Swap orzo with couscous, quinoa, or whole wheat pasta
• Use goat cheese instead of ricotta for tangier flavor
• Add grilled asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or baby spinach for extra color
• No cranberry sauce? Try a blueberry preserve with a splash of vinegar!

👩‍🍳 How to Make Grilled Chicken with Cranberry Balsamic Glaze & Ricotta Orzo Salad

1. Cook the Orzo

Boil orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

2. Make the Glaze

In a small saucepan over low heat, combine cranberry sauce, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens slightly.

3. Grill the Chicken

Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, season with salt and pepper. Grill over medium heat for 6–8 minutes per side, until cooked through. In the final minutes, brush with cranberry glaze.

4. Mix the Orzo Salad

In a large bowl, mix the cooked orzo, ricotta, lemon juice and zest, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and herbs. Stir until creamy and well combined.

5. Plate and Serve

Serve the grilled chicken on a bed of ricotta orzo salad. Drizzle with extra cranberry balsamic glaze if desired. Garnish with extra herbs for a pretty finish!

🍽️ What to Serve With This Dish

• Grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers
• A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Crusty garlic bread
• Iced tea or citrus-infused sparkling water

🌟 Tips for Perfect Results

• Don’t skip the lemon zest—it brightens the entire dish
• Let the orzo cool slightly before mixing to avoid melting the ricotta
• Brush the glaze on the chicken during the final grill minutes for maximum flavor
• Make extra glaze—it’s amazing over roasted veggies!

🧊 Storage Instructions

• Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Reheat chicken gently in the microwave or oven
• Orzo salad can be served cold or room temp, making it great for lunches

📚 General Info

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Calories: Approx. 480 per serving
• Servings: 4

🥗 Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 36g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 9g

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the orzo and make the glaze in advance. Grill the chicken fresh, or reheat gently.

What can I use instead of cranberry sauce?

Try cherry preserves, raspberry jam, or even a fig spread mixed with balsamic vinegar.

Is this dish good for meal prep?

Absolutely. Store components separately or assemble as meal bowls.

Can I make this without a grill?

Yes—use a stovetop grill pan or even bake the chicken at 400°F for 20–25 minutes.

🧁 Conclusion: Sweet, Savory, and So Satisfying

This Grilled Chicken with Cranberry Balsamic Glaze & Ricotta Orzo Salad is your new go-to for a weeknight dinner that looks (and tastes) like a chef made it! 💕 Easy enough for a Tuesday, fancy enough for guests.

Looking for more grilled chicken or fresh summer salad recipes? Try these:

• Smoky Chicken Ricotta Meatballs
• Grilled Chicken with Strawberry Balsamic Glaze
• Grilled Peach Burrata Couscous Salad

📸 Interactive Element

Tried this recipe? Share your photos and tag us on Pinterest! We LOVE seeing your delicious creations and how you make it your own! 😍

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