Grilled Chicken with Strawberry Balsamic Glaze & Feta Orzo Salad

Grilled Chicken with Strawberry Balsamic Glaze & Feta Orzo Salad is a vibrant, flavor-packed recipe that brings together the smoky tenderness of grilled chicken with a sweet and tangy fruit glaze. Right after your first bite, you’ll understand why this recipe is a summer staple in our kitchen — it’s bright, balanced, and bursting with flavor!

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Overview of Grilled Chicken with Strawberry Balsamic Glaze & Feta Orzo Salad

Grilled Chicken with Strawberry Balsamic Glaze & Feta Orzo Salad combines juicy grilled chicken, a fruity glaze, and a zesty, herby orzo pasta salad. It’s a refreshing and elegant meal perfect for warm-weather gatherings, family dinners, or when you’re simply craving something light but satisfying.

Reasons to Love This Recipe

• Sweet meets savory with the unique strawberry glaze
• Perfect for BBQs or light dinners
• Easy to prep ahead
• Beautiful to serve – it looks as good as it tastes!

What Does It Taste Like?

The chicken is tender and smoky, with hints of sweetness and acidity from the strawberry balsamic glaze. The orzo salad adds a Mediterranean flair with creamy feta, crisp cucumber, juicy tomatoes, and bright lemony notes. Each bite is refreshing, balanced, and deeply satisfying.

Benefits of the Recipe

• High in protein and healthy fats
• Can be made gluten-free with GF pasta
• Loaded with fresh, seasonal produce
• Simple ingredients, gourmet flavor

Ingredients List

For the Chicken & Glaze:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup strawberries, chopped
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

For the Feta Orzo Salad:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup diced cucumber
• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Necessary Tools for Preparation

• Grill or grill pan
• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Pasta strainer
• Whisk or spoon for glaze
• Knife and cutting board

Possible Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

• Protein Swap: Use grilled tofu or halloumi for a vegetarian twist
• Herb Options: Swap thyme with rosemary or basil for different flavor notes
• Add-ins: Kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, or pine nuts in the orzo salad
• Cheese Substitute: Goat cheese or vegan feta can replace traditional feta

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Orzo Salad

Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water. In a large bowl, combine orzo with feta, chopped parsley, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat and set aside.

2. Grill the Chicken

Brush chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill over medium heat for 6–7 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest a few minutes before slicing.

3. Make the Strawberry Balsamic Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine strawberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, and thyme. Simmer over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until strawberries break down and sauce thickens slightly.

4. Glaze the Chicken

Brush the grilled chicken with the strawberry balsamic glaze. Slice and serve over a bed of the orzo salad. Spoon extra glaze on top for added flavor.

Suggestions on What to Serve with the Recipe

• Grilled asparagus or zucchini
• A chilled sparkling lemonade
• Fresh watermelon or a citrus salad for dessert

Tips for Making This Recipe

• Use ripe, in-season strawberries for the best flavor
• Chill the orzo salad before serving for a refreshing touch
• Double the glaze to use as a salad dressing or bread dip!

Storage Instructions

Store leftover chicken and salad separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat chicken gently in a skillet or microwave.

General Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: ~420 kcal

Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 9g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes! Just thaw them first and drain any excess liquid.

What’s a good substitute for orzo?

You can try couscous, quinoa, or even short pasta like ditalini or macaroni.

Can I make this ahead?

Absolutely! Prepare the components a day ahead and store them separately. Glaze the chicken just before serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can use gluten-free orzo or quinoa for a GF version.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a refreshing twist on grilled chicken, this Grilled Chicken with Strawberry Balsamic Glaze & Feta Orzo Salad will blow you away. It’s quick, easy, and tastes like something straight out of a gourmet summer bistro.

Ready to keep the flavor train going? Check out these similar fresh and vibrant recipes:

• Balsamic Glazed Chicken Orzo
• Goat Cheese Cranberry Rigatoni Salad
• Grilled Peach Burrata Couscous Salad

Interactive Elements

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