Gather the following ingredients to prepare your delightful meal:
- For the Grilled Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- For the Strawberry Balsamic Glaze:
- 1/2 cup strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Pinch of salt
- For the Orzo Salad:
- 1 cup orzo
- 1/2 cup ricotta salata, crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped arugula
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Step 1: Cook the orzo in salted water according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and let it cool slightly.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, toss the cooled orzo with olive oil, lemon juice, ricotta salata, basil, arugula, salt, and pepper.
- Step 3: While the orzo cooks, heat olive oil in a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat.
- Step 4: Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Grill for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Step 5: To prepare the glaze, combine strawberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 5-6 minutes, mashing the strawberries and stirring until the sauce thickens. You can strain it for a smoother texture if preferred.
- Step 6: Serve the sliced grilled chicken over a generous bed of the orzo salad and drizzle with strawberry balsamic glaze.
FAQs
1. Can I substitute chicken breasts with another type of meat?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or even grilled shrimp as alternatives.
2. How long can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. Can I make the strawberry balsamic glaze in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the glaze a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just warm it slightly before serving.
4. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish keeps well and tastes great, making it perfect for meal prep.
5. What can I serve with this dish?
Garlic bread or a simple green salad pairs beautifully with this meal.
Conclusion
Grilled Chicken with Strawberry Balsamic Glaze and Ricotta Salata Orzo Salad is not only a feast for the senses but also a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary meals. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a tasty weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the celebration of flavors and the joy of cooking with this nutritious and delicious recipe!
