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Strawberry Balsamic Chicken with Herbed Orzo is a bright and satisfying meal that strikes a comforting balance between savory and sweet. The tangy glaze brings chicken to life while pillowy orzo with lemon and fresh herbs gives you a taste of springtime on your plate. It is a dish I keep coming back to every time strawberries hit their peak.
When I first made this for my friends they thought strawberries with chicken sounded unusual but now it is the most requested meal when we gather each summer.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: for lean protein that absorbs the sweet tangy glaze choose ones that are plump and pink without any spots
- Fresh strawberries: for vibrant color and a bright sweet accent pick berries that are firm and deeply red for best taste
- Balsamic vinegar: for a punchy fruity acidity look for a thick aged variety if possible
- Honey: brings round sweetness and helps thicken the sauce choose a mild floral type
- Salt and pepper: to season and enhance all flavors use freshly cracked black pepper if available
- Olive oil: adds richness and helps with browning use extra virgin for best aroma
- Orzo pasta: a quick cooking shape that soaks up citrus and herbs use one made with quality durum wheat
- Ricotta salata or feta, crumbled: for a creamy tangy bite select a young cheese with bright milky flavor
- Fresh basil: gives sweet and peppery fragrance select vibrant green leaves without bruises
- Fresh mint: for cool herbal lift pick crisp leaves to avoid bitterness
- Lemon juice: adds brightness and keeps the orzo lively
- Salt and pepper: for balance season to taste
- Olive oil: to bind flavors and add silkiness use extra virgin
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat chicken breasts completely dry using paper towels for better browning and season both sides with salt and pepper. Let them rest at room temperature for 15 minutes which helps them cook more evenly and stay tender.
- Make the Strawberry Balsamic Reduction:
- Dice strawberries to release their juices and add them to a small saucepan with balsamic vinegar and honey. Simmer this mixture over medium heat stirring gently until the berries break down to a jammy sauce and it thickens enough to coat a spoon this should take about 15 minutes for a concentrated flavor.
- Cook the Orzo:
- Set a pot of salted water on to boil and add orzo cooking until al dente about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain well and immediately transfer to a large bowl while still warm to soak in dressing.
- Toss Herbed Orzo:
- Drizzle cooked orzo with olive oil and lemon juice while warm stirring to coat all the grains. Add chopped basil and mint plus salt and pepper to taste then gently fold in crumbled ricotta salata being careful not to overmix and keeping texture airy.
- Grill the Chicken:
- Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium high heat then brush the chicken with olive oil on both sides to prevent sticking. Grill chicken for 6 to 7 minutes per side without moving too much to allow nice grill marks and caramelization. Check that internal temperature hits 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Rest cooked chicken on a plate covered for 5 minutes to let juices settle.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Slice the rested chicken breasts on the diagonal for restaurant style presentation. Divide herbed orzo among serving plates top with slices of chicken and spoon over the strawberry balsamic reduction letting it run down the sides. Finish with extra fresh herbs and more crumbled cheese for a bright touch.
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There is something magical about using strawberries in a savory dish. Their natural sweet acidity with balsamic vinegar makes that glossy sauce one of my all time favorite toppings. I will never forget serving this at a family picnic with mint plucked from my grandmother’s garden.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers store the chicken and orzo separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat the chicken gently covered in a skillet with a splash of water to keep it moist. Enjoy the orzo cold or gently warmed either works beautifully.
Ingredient Substitutions
No strawberries Try raspberries or blackberries for a twist. If you do not have ricotta salata use crumbled feta or even goat cheese for similar texture and tang. For a dairy free version skip the cheese and add a handful of toasted pine nuts to the orzo.
Serving Suggestions
This dish shines with a leafy green salad or crisp snap peas alongside. If making for a special occasion serve with chilled rose wine and a rustic loaf of bread to soak up any leftover sauce. Top the chicken with extra fresh mint for an aromatic lift.
A Little History
Fruit with savory proteins has been a staple in Mediterranean cuisines for centuries. Italians often pair aged balsamic with strawberries. This recipe takes a cue from that tradition bringing together sweet herbaceous and tangy notes on one plate.
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This recipe brings a fresh twist to the dinner table, blending fruity tang and herbaceous notes. It is destined to become a new spring and summer favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What does strawberry balsamic glaze add to chicken?
The glaze brings sweet-tart and fruity notes that enhance the savory depth of grilled chicken.
- → Can I substitute ricotta salata with another cheese?
Yes, feta cheese or even goat cheese work well for a tangy, creamy texture in the orzo.
- → How can I ensure the orzo is flavorful?
Toss warm orzo with olive oil, lemon, fresh herbs, and season well to infuse brightness and aroma.
- → What's the best way to cook the chicken?
Grilling over medium-high heat creates juicy meat with appealing char, while letting it rest keeps it tender.
- → Can I prepare the glaze in advance?
Absolutely—make and chill the glaze ahead, then warm before serving to simplify preparation.