🍗 Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Whipped Feta & Grilled Zucchini
📝 Description
Juicy chicken glazed in a rich balsamic reduction is served over tender orzo, paired with smoky grilled zucchini and a creamy whipped feta spread. This dish blends bold flavors with light, fresh elements—perfect for an elegant yet easy dinner.
🛒 Ingredients
For the chicken & glaze:
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ⅓ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
For the orzo:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
For the whipped feta:
- 100g feta cheese
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp lemon juice
For the grilled zucchini:
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the orzo
- Bring chicken broth to a boil, add orzo, and cook until tender.
- Drain excess liquid if needed, then stir in olive oil and parsley. Set aside.
2. Prepare the whipped feta
- Blend feta, Greek yogurt, olive oil, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
- Chill until ready to serve.
3. Grill the zucchini
- Brush zucchini slices with olive oil, season, and grill (or pan-sear) 3–4 minutes per side until tender with char marks.
4. Cook the chicken
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
5. Make the balsamic glaze
- In the same pan, add garlic, balsamic vinegar, and honey.
- Simmer until thickened into a glossy glaze (3–5 minutes).
- Return chicken to the pan and coat well.
6. Assemble
- Spoon orzo onto plates
- Add sliced balsamic chicken
- Serve with grilled zucchini and a generous dollop of whipped feta
🌿 Mediterranean Tips
- Add cherry tomatoes or olives to the orzo for extra flavor
- Swap chicken for grilled shrimp or lamb
- Use whole wheat orzo for added fiber
- Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the finished dish for richness
❓ Q & A
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes—prepare components separately and assemble before serving.
Q: What can I use instead of orzo?
A: Try couscous, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Q: Is whipped feta strong in flavor?
A: It’s tangy but balanced by the yogurt, making it creamy and mild.
Q: Can I bake the chicken instead?
A: Absolutely—bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20–25 minutes, then glaze.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Keep in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
