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Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo

A delightful dish featuring tender chicken in balsamic glaze, creamy whipped feta, and roasted strawberries, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for searing
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Orzo
  • 1 1/2 cups dry orzo pasta
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
For the Roasted Strawberries
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, halved
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper
  • pinch sea salt
For the Whipped Feta
  • 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 tbsp water if needed for consistency
For Garnish
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish
  • Extra crumbled feta
  • Lemon zest
  • Toasted pine nuts

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Sear the chicken breasts for 3–4 minutes per side until lightly golden.
Cooking
  1. Pour the balsamic glaze over the chicken and bake for about 12–15 minutes, basting once, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  2. Arrange the halved strawberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil and honey, and season with cracked black pepper and sea salt.
  3. Roast the strawberries for 12–15 minutes until they’re juicy and slightly caramelized.
  4. Cook the orzo according to package directions, then drain and toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, chopped parsley, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper to taste.
Assembly
  1. In a blender, combine the feta, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, basil, and water until smooth and creamy.
  2. Spread the whipped feta onto a large serving platter.
  3. Layer the seasoned orzo on top of the whipped feta, then arrange the balsamic glazed chicken over the pasta.
  4. Scatter the roasted strawberries around the platter and drizzle with any remaining balsamic glaze.
  5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, extra feta, lemon zest, and toasted pine nuts before serving warm.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best flavor and texture, reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
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