Strawberry Chicken

Posted on May 23, 2023

Get ready to elevate your dinner with this delightful Strawberry Chicken recipe! This dish combines the savory goodness of chicken with the sweet allure of strawberries, creating a mouthwatering experience that’s sure to impress. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Chicken:

Flavor Explosion: The combination of tangy balsamic vinegar and sweet strawberry jam creates a deliciously unique sauce.
Quick to Prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a perfect option for busy weeknights.
Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe can easily be doubled for meal prep, keeping well in the fridge for up to four days.
Family Favorite: Even the pickiest eaters will enjoy this sweet and savory delight!
Customizable Toppings: Easily personalize with optional goat cheese and strawberries for extra flavor and texture.

Ingredients Needed:

Protein:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Sauce:

1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon sea salt
¼ cup strawberry jam
1 tablespoon good quality balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon water (extra if mixture is too thick)

Fresh Herbs:

¼ cup fresh basil leaves (cut into ribbons or finely chopped)

Toppings (Optional):

2 tablespoons crumbled goat cheese
¼ cup fresh strawberries (sliced)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken breasts with a sprinkle of sea salt on both sides and place them in the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side, until a lovely golden crust forms.
Flip the chicken and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (cooking time may vary based on chicken thickness).
In a small bowl, whisk together the strawberry jam, balsamic vinegar, and water.
When the chicken is nearly done cooking, pour the strawberry mixture over the chicken, making sure to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Stir in most of the basil, simmering for an additional minute; reserve some for garnish.
Remove the chicken from the pan, plating each breast and pouring the sauce over the top.
If desired, sprinkle with goat cheese and garnish with remaining basil and sliced strawberries.

Serving Suggestions for Strawberry Chicken

Serve your Strawberry Chicken alongside a fresh green salad, cauliflower rice, or even creamy mashed potatoes for a balanced meal. Pair it with a light, fruity white wine to complement the dish’s flavors.

Tips for Success with Strawberry Chicken:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh strawberries and basil for the best flavor.
Thickness Matters: Be mindful of your chicken’s thickness for even cooking.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dish, feel free to add more strawberry jam.
Add a Kick: For a spicier twist, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Marinate Ahead: For added depth of flavor, marinate chicken in a mix of balsamic vinegar and olive oil for a few hours before cooking.

Variation

For a lighter option, swap out the chicken for turkey cutlets, or for a vegetarian twist, use grilled eggplant slices instead of chicken.

FAQs

Can I make this Strawberry Chicken recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Is it possible to freeze the Strawberry Chicken?

While it’s best served fresh, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Can I substitute strawberry jam with fresh strawberries?

Yes, you can use fresh strawberries and create a sauce by cooking them down with balsamic vinegar and a small amount of sugar for sweetness.