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Grilled Chicken with Strawberry Balsamic Glaze & Ricotta Salata Orzo Salad

Grilled Chicken with Strawberry Balsamic Glaze & Ricotta Salata Orzo Salad
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A vibrant and fresh summer meal featuring tender grilled chicken glazed with a luscious strawberry balsamic reduction, paired with a refreshing orzo salad tossed with creamy ricotta salata, fresh herbs, and crisp vegetables for a balanced, healthy, and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Glaze

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Orzo Salad

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1/2 cup ricotta salata cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Strawberry Balsamic Glaze: Combine fresh chopped strawberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 10–12 minutes until the mixture thickens into a syrupy glaze. Set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Grill the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 6–7 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). In the last few minutes, brush strawberry balsamic glaze generously on both sides. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  3. Cook the Orzo: Bring salted water to a boil. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool and firm up the pasta.
  4. Assemble the Orzo Salad: In a large bowl, toss cooked orzo with diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped basil and mint, crumbled ricotta salata, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  5. Plate and Serve: Slice the grilled chicken and plate it alongside the orzo salad. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the chicken and garnish with extra herbs or sliced strawberries. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the glaze to maximize sweetness and flavor.
  • Allow grilled chicken to rest before slicing to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Prepare the strawberry balsamic glaze ahead of time for better flavor melding.
  • Rinse orzo after cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy in the salad.
  • Add fresh herbs just before serving to maintain their bright color and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken, strawberry balsamic glaze, ricotta salata, orzo salad, summer recipe, fresh herbs, healthy meal

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/grilled-chicken-with-strawberry-balsamic-glaze-ricotta-salata-orzo-salad/