Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Whipped Feta & Grilled Zucchini
If you’re looking for a restaurant-style meal that’s easy enough for a weeknight, this Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Whipped Feta & Grilled Zucchini is the perfect choice. It combines juicy, caramelized chicken coated in a tangy balsamic glaze with tender orzo pasta, creamy whipped feta, and smoky grilled zucchini. The balance of sweet, savory, and fresh flavors makes this dish both comforting and elegant. Plus, it’s a complete meal in one plate—protein, carbs, and veggies—making it ideal for family dinners or casual entertaining.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Glaze
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
For the Orzo
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Salt to taste
For the Whipped Feta
150g feta cheese
3 tablespoons Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon lemon juice
For the Grilled Zucchini
2 medium zucchini (sliced lengthwise)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
Add glaze: Pour the balsamic mixture into the pan. Let it simmer and thicken for 3–5 minutes, coating the chicken evenly. Remove from heat.
Cook the orzo: In a saucepan, heat butter and olive oil. Add orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then simmer until tender (about 8–10 minutes). Stir in parsley and salt.
Make whipped feta: Blend feta, Greek yogurt, olive oil, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
Grill zucchini: Brush zucchini with olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Grill on a pan or grill for 3–4 minutes per side until tender and slightly charred.
Assemble: Spread whipped feta on the plate, add orzo, top with balsamic chicken, and serve with grilled zucchini. Drizzle extra glaze over the top if desired.
Tips for Best Results
Use fresh balsamic vinegar for a richer flavor.
Pound chicken to even thickness for uniform cooking.
Don’t overcook the chicken—it should stay juicy.
Let the glaze thicken properly for a glossy finish.
Toasting orzo enhances its nutty flavor.
Use full-fat feta for the creamiest whipped texture.
Add a splash of pasta water if orzo gets too thick.
Grill zucchini on high heat for good char marks.
Rest chicken for a few minutes before slicing.
Garnish with fresh herbs for a fresh touch.
Variations
Substitute chicken with grilled salmon.
Use brown rice or quinoa instead of orzo.
Add cherry tomatoes to the orzo.
Make it spicy with red chili sauce.
Replace zucchini with grilled eggplant.
Add olives for a Mediterranean twist.
Use maple syrup instead of honey.
Add spinach to the orzo for extra greens.
Try goat cheese instead of feta.
Make it vegetarian by using mushrooms instead of chicken.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare components separately and assemble later.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
Chicken can be frozen, but whipped feta is best fresh.
Q: What can I use instead of orzo?
Rice, couscous, or small pasta shapes work well.
Q: Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it’s balanced with protein, carbs, and vegetables.
Q: Can I use store-bought glaze?
Yes, but homemade tastes better.
Q: How do I prevent dry chicken?
Cook on medium heat and don’t overcook.
Q: Can I use low-fat feta?
Yes, but texture may be less creamy.
Q: What herbs go best?
Parsley, basil, or thyme work well.
Q: Can I bake the chicken?
Yes, bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes.
Nutrition
(Per Serving Approx.)
Calories: 520 kcal
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 600mg
Conclusion
This Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Orzo with Whipped Feta & Grilled Zucchini is a perfect blend of flavors and textures—sweet, tangy, creamy, and smoky. It’s simple enough for everyday cooking yet impressive enough to serve guests. With customizable variations and easy preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Try it once, and it might just become a favorite in your kitchen!