Balsamic Chicken Orzo with Roasted Veggies & Whipped Feta

Ingredients

For the Roasted Vegetables

• 1 zucchini, sliced

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped

• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped

• 1 small red onion, sliced

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

For the Balsamic Chicken

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon honey (optional but recommended)

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Orzo

• 1 cup orzo pasta

• 2 cups chicken broth (or water)

• 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Whipped Feta

• 150 g feta cheese

• 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• 1 small garlic clove (optional)

• Black pepper to taste

Garnish (Optional)

• Fresh parsley or basil

• Extra balsamic glaze drizzle

• Lemon zest

Instructions

1. Roast the Vegetables

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).

2. Place zucchini, bell peppers, onion, and cherry tomatoes on a baking tray.

3. Drizzle with olive oil.

4. Add salt, pepper, and oregano.

5. Toss everything well.

6. Roast for 18–22 minutes until vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.

2. Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl mix:

   • olive oil

   • balsamic vinegar

   • garlic

   • honey

   • salt

   • pepper

   • Italian seasoning

2. Coat chicken breasts in the marinade.

3. Let marinate 15–30 minutes (longer for more flavor).

3. Cook the Chicken

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add a little olive oil.

3. Cook chicken 5–7 minutes per side until cooked through.

4. Pour remaining marinade into the pan during the last 2 minutes to create a glaze.

5. Remove chicken and let rest 5 minutes, then slice.

4. Cook the Orzo

1. In a saucepan heat butter or olive oil.

2. Add minced garlic and sauté 30 seconds.

3. Add orzo and lightly toast 1 minute.

4. Pour in chicken broth and salt.

5. Simmer 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.

5. Make the Whipped Feta

1. In a blender or food processor combine:

   • feta cheese

   • Greek yogurt

   • olive oil

   • lemon juice

   • garlic (optional)

   • black pepper

2. Blend until smooth and creamy.

3. Add a little water or olive oil if needed to loosen texture.

6. Assemble the Dish

1. Spread cooked orzo on a serving plate or bowl.

2. Top with roasted vegetables.

3. Add sliced balsamic chicken.

4. Spoon or pipe whipped feta on top.

5. Garnish with parsley, basil, or lemon zest.

6. Drizzle extra balsamic glaze if desired.

✅ Serving Tip:
Serve warm with a simple side salad or toasted bread.