Why Make This Recipe
Strawberry Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavor of chicken with the sweet, fruity essence of strawberries. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The mix of fresh basil and balsamic vinegar elevates the dish, giving it a gourmet feel without complicated steps. If you’re looking to impress your family or guests, Strawberry Chicken is a dish that will surely delight their taste buds!
How to Make Strawberry Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ cup strawberry jam
- 1 tablespoon good quality balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon water (extra if mixture is too thick)
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves (cut into ribbons or finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons crumbled goat cheese (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh strawberries (sliced, optional)
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season chicken breasts with a sprinkle of salt on both sides and place them in the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side until a nice golden crust forms.
- Flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through. (Cook time will depend on the thickness of the chicken breasts.)
- Meanwhile, whisk together strawberry jam, balsamic vinegar, and water in a small bowl.
- When the chicken is just about finished cooking, pour the mixture over the top. Nestle the chicken breasts into the sauce and scrape up the brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Reduce heat and bring the sauce to a simmer, allowing it to bubble for 2-3 more minutes or until it has reduced and thickened slightly.
- Stir in most of the basil and simmer for 1 minute. (You may want to save some for garnish.)
- Remove the chicken breasts from the pan. Pour the sauce over each piece, sprinkle with goat cheese if desired, and garnish with remaining basil and sliced strawberries.
How to Serve Strawberry Chicken
Strawberry Chicken is best served hot from the skillet. Place each chicken breast on a plate and drizzle the balsamic-strawberry sauce generously over the top. For an added touch, you can garnish with fresh strawberries and goat cheese. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad.
How to Store Strawberry Chicken
To store leftover Strawberry Chicken, allow the dish to cool completely. Place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When ready to eat, you can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Tips to Make Strawberry Chicken
- If you like a thicker sauce, add a little more water to your mixture while whisking.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of strawberry jam based on your sweetness preference.
- Experiment with different herbs, such as mint, for a unique twist.
Serving Ideas
This delicious Strawberry Chicken can be served on a bed of rice or quinoa for a heartier meal. It would also pair well with crispy roasted potatoes or a fresh garden salad for a light option. You can serve it as a main dish at dinner parties or romantic evenings at home.
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Chicken is a fantastic recipe that balances sweet and savory flavors. It’s easy to make and can be dressed up or down, making it suitable for any meal occasion. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a taste of summer all year round!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just ensure they are fully thawed and cooked through properly before serving.
2. What can I substitute for balsamic vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, but the taste will differ slightly.
3. Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving for best results.
Strawberry Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
Sauce Ingredients
- ¼ cup strawberry jam
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar good quality
- 1 tablespoon water extra if mixture is too thick
Garnish Ingredients
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves cut into ribbons or finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons crumbled goat cheese optional
- ¼ cup fresh strawberries sliced, optional
Instructions
Cooking Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season chicken breasts with a sprinkle of salt on both sides and place them in the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side until a nice golden crust forms.
- Flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through.
Making the Sauce
- Meanwhile, whisk together strawberry jam, balsamic vinegar, and water in a small bowl.
- When the chicken is just about finished cooking, pour the mixture over the top. Nestle the chicken breasts into the sauce and scrape up the brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Reduce heat and bring the sauce to a simmer, allowing it to bubble for 2-3 more minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Stir in most of the basil and simmer for 1 minute.
- Remove the chicken breasts from the pan, pour the sauce over each piece, sprinkle with goat cheese if desired, and garnish with remaining basil and sliced strawberries.