Description
This recipe for Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Whipped Feta & Grilled Zucchini is a delightful combination of savory flavors and textures that come together beautifully on the plate. Tender chicken breasts glazed with a sweet balsamic reduction, served alongside lemony orzo, creamy whipped feta, and charred grilled zucchini – a perfect harmony of tastes.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Chicken & Balsamic Glaze
- 1 1/2 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
For the Orzo
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Salt to taste
For the Whipped Feta
- 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/3 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1–2 tbsp warm water (to thin)
For the Grilled Zucchini
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the OrzoBring chicken broth to a boil. Add orzo and cook according to package instructions (about 8–10 minutes) until tender. Drain if necessary and toss with olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
- Prepare the Balsamic GlazeIn a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, and minced garlic. Simmer over medium heat for 8–10 minutes until reduced and thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Cook the ChickenSeason chicken with oregano, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Brush generously with balsamic glaze during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Let rest 5 minutes before slicing.
- Grill the ZucchiniToss zucchini slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill on a grill pan or outdoor grill for 2–3 minutes per side until tender and lightly charred.
- Make the Whipped FetaBlend feta, Greek yogurt, olive oil, and lemon juice until smooth. Add warm water as needed to create a creamy, spreadable texture.
- Assemble the DishSpoon orzo onto serving plates or bowls. Add sliced balsamic chicken. Arrange grilled zucchini on the side. Add generous dollops of whipped feta. Drizzle with extra balsamic glaze if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling, Stovetop, Oven
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 560 kcal
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
