Maple Balsamic Chicken with Roasted Pear Orzo
This elegant dish features juicy chicken glazed with a maple‑balsamic reduction, served over orzo tossed with roasted pears, fresh herbs, and Parmesan. A balanced, sweet‑savory plate that works for both weeknights and special occasions.
Time
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
Chicken
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp pure maple syrup
1 tsp Dijon mustard
½ tsp dried thyme
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Roasted Pear Orzo
1 ½ cups orzo pasta
2 firm ripe pears, cored & diced
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg
Salt & black pepper, to taste
¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Juice of ½ lemon
Garnish
Extra fresh thyme or parsley
Optional: drizzle of balsamic glaze
Instructions
1. Roast the Pears
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Toss diced pears with olive oil, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
Spread on a lined baking sheet and roast for 15–18 minutes until caramelized.
2. Cook the Orzo
Meanwhile, cook orzo in salted boiling water until al dente.
Drain, toss with roasted pears, Parmesan, parsley, and lemon juice. Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium‑high heat.
Season chicken with salt and pepper; sear 5 minutes per side until golden and nearly cooked through.
Add garlic; sauté 1 minute.
Stir in balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon, and thyme.
Simmer 3–4 minutes until sauce thickens and chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Serve
Divide orzo among plates.
Top with glazed chicken and spoon extra sauce over the top.
Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley.
Notes & Tips
Pear swap: Apples work beautifully if pears aren’t available.
Make it creamy: Stir 2 tbsp mascarpone or ricotta into the orzo for extra richness.
Gluten‑free option: Use gluten‑free orzo or small rice pasta.
Meal prep tip: Roast pears and cook orzo ahead; reheat and finish with lemon and cheese before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes — boneless thighs work well; just adjust cooking time slightly (about 6–7 minutes per side).
Q: Will honey work instead of maple syrup?
Absolutely, though maple gives a deeper, more caramelized flavor.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes — replace chicken with roasted chickpeas or halloumi, and drizzle the balsamic‑maple glaze over.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~490
Protein: 36g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 12g