Irresistible Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Orzo Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of sweet strawberries, tangy balsamic vinegar, and juicy chicken that makes my taste buds dance. When I first tried Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Orzo, it was as if a culinary light bulb flickered on, illuminating my kitchen with a burst of flavor and color. The vibrant hues of the strawberries against the rich balsamic glaze create a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Imagine this: a warm summer evening, friends gathered around the table, laughter filling the air as we pass around bowls brimming with this delightful dish. The moment I served it to my crew, their faces lit up like kids at Christmas. This recipe brings people together and turns an ordinary weeknight into something extraordinary—perfect for those moments when you want to impress without stressing.

Sharing this recipe always brings back memories of my best friend’s potluck dinner where I wowed everyone (including myself) with this dish’s flavor explosion.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts depending on how many you’re feeding; they cook evenly and stay juicy.

• Fresh Strawberries: Choose ripe strawberries for maximum sweetness; they pair beautifully with the balsamic glaze.

• Balsamic Vinegar: Opt for high-quality balsamic for a richer flavor; it’ll elevate your dish significantly.

• Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well; perfect for our dish!

• Fresh Basil: Adds wonderful freshness; chop it just before serving for the best aromatic experience.

• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for drizzling over chicken before roasting; it enhances moisture and flavor.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out all the other flavors; do not skimp on these!

• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds depth; sauté until fragrant to really enhance your dish’s aroma.

• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while adding moisture during cooking.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Orzo

Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients and chop your strawberries and basil so everything is ready when you start cooking. Prepping ahead saves time and keeps things organized.

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Coat your chicken breasts well in this mixture and let them sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb those delicious flavors.

Sauté Your Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Cook your marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. The aroma will be irresistible!

Add Strawberries: Toss in sliced strawberries around the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking so they soften slightly but maintain their shape. This step enhances sweetness while adding texture.

Cook Your Orzo: Meanwhile, boil orzo pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain it well before adding to your skillet once the chicken is cooked.

Toss Everything Together: In the skillet with chicken and strawberries, add cooked orzo along with fresh basil. Mix everything gently until well combined—this will allow all those incredible flavors to meld beautifully.

With these steps completed, you’ll have a plate bursting with vibrant colors and enticing aromas ready to impress anyone lucky enough to sit down at your table! Enjoy every bite of this fantastic Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Orzo that promises a delightful dining experience filled with laughter and joy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first for a golden crust, then cook the orzo while preparing the luscious strawberry balsamic sauce. This sequence ensures everything is ready at once and bursting with flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap strawberries for other berries, add nuts for crunch, or sprinkle feta for creaminess. Personalizing this dish can elevate its flavor profile based on your preferences.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Orzo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to avoid dryness.

Cooking this Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Orzo always brings back fond memories of family gatherings where everyone would rave about its unique flavors.

FAQ

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! Any small pasta works well, but orzo is especially delightful due to its shape.

Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components separately and combine them just before serving for best results.

What can I serve as a side dish?

A simple green salad or roasted vegetables pairs perfectly with Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Orzo!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Orzo

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Orzo is a culinary delight that combines the sweetness of ripe strawberries, the tanginess of balsamic vinegar, and juicy chicken, all tossed with tender orzo pasta. This vibrant dish not only looks stunning but also creates a flavor explosion that will impress your guests. Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, it’s a versatile recipe that can be served warm or chilled. Gather your friends around the table and savor the delightful aromas and tastes of this unforgettable meal.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients by washing and chopping strawberries and basil.
2. In a bowl, marinate chicken with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Add sliced strawberries during the last few minutes of cooking to soften slightly.
5. Meanwhile, cook orzo in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente; drain well.
6. Combine cooked orzo with chicken and strawberries in the skillet, adding fresh basil. Toss gently to mix flavors.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
• Calories: 470
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 56g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 90mg