Balsamic Chicken with Strawberry is a fresh and tasty dish that combines the juicy sweetness of strawberries with the tangy richness of balsamic vinegar. The chicken is cooked until tender and coated in a lovely glaze that balances savory and sweet perfectly. It’s a bright and colorful meal that feels light but satisfying, great for brightening up any dinner table.
I love making this dish when strawberries are in season because their natural sweetness really shines through and pairs so well with the vinegar’s deep flavor. The combination might sound unusual at first, but trust me, it works! I find it’s a wonderful way to bring something unexpected and fresh to your usual chicken dinner without needing too many ingredients.
Serving this dish over a bed of simple greens or alongside some roasted vegetables makes a perfect meal. I also like to add a little fresh basil or mint on top to give it an extra pop of flavor. It’s one of those meals where everything comes together quickly, but feels special enough to serve for guests or a cozy night in.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts keeps the dish quick and lean. If you prefer, thighs work well too—they stay juicy and have a richer flavor.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add sweetness and freshness. In winter, frozen strawberries are a fine substitute but drain any excess juice before cooking to avoid a soggy sauce.
Balsamic vinegar: Choose a good-quality balsamic for the best flavor. If unavailable, you can mix red wine vinegar with a pinch of sugar as a simple alternative.
Honey or maple syrup: Either sweetens the balsamic glaze nicely. You can adjust the amount based on how sweet you like your sauce.
Fresh basil: Adds a lovely aromatic touch. If you don’t have basil, fresh mint or parsley also brightens this dish.
How Can I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Juicy and Tasty?
Cooking chicken breasts perfectly can be tricky since they can dry out. Here’s how I do it:
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning—this helps with even browning.
- Cook over medium heat—not too high to avoid burning, not too low to prevent rubberiness.
- Let the chicken cook undisturbed on one side before flipping to get a good sear.
- Use a timer around 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness.
- Rest the chicken a few minutes after cooking—this keeps the juices locked inside.
Adding the strawberry balsamic glaze at the end warms the chicken and boosts flavor without overcooking it. It’s a simple trick for tender, tasty results every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large nonstick skillet – perfect for cooking chicken evenly and making the balsamic glaze without sticking.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring the glaze gently without scratching the pan.
- Sharp knife – helps you slice strawberries cleanly for a nice texture in the sauce.
- Cutting board – protects your counters and gives you a safe space to prep ingredients.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for pork chops—both pair wonderfully with the strawberry balsamic glaze.
- Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the glaze for an earthy herbal touch.
- Mix in sliced almonds or toasted pecans on top for a crunchy contrast.
- Stir in crumbled goat cheese or feta for a creamy, tangy layer that complements the strawberries well.
Balsamic Chicken With Strawberry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Strawberry Balsamic Glaze:
- ½ cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 garlic clove, minced
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes in total: approximately 5 minutes for preparation and 10 minutes to cook and finish the glaze. It’s a quick and flavorful dish that you can prepare any day of the week.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Cook the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden-brown color. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate.
2. Make the Strawberry Balsamic Glaze:
Reduce the heat to low in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté briefly for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the balsamic vinegar and add the honey or maple syrup. Stir gently and let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until it slightly thickens, turning into a beautiful glaze.
3. Add Strawberries and Finish:
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the sliced strawberries, coating them carefully with the glaze. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon some of the strawberry balsamic sauce over the top to warm everything together.
4. Serve and Garnish:
Place the chicken on serving plates, spoon extra glaze and strawberries over each piece. Finish by sprinkling fresh, thinly sliced basil leaves on top for a burst of flavor and color. Serve immediately with your choice of side like mixed greens or roasted vegetables.
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! Make sure to thaw them fully and drain any excess liquid so the glaze doesn’t become too watery. Fresh strawberries work best for texture, but frozen will still add great flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Substitute Another Protein for Chicken?
Absolutely! Pork chops or turkey cutlets work well with this glaze. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure your protein is fully cooked and juicy.
Is There a Way to Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your balsamic vinegar doesn’t contain any additives with gluten. Always check the label if you’re unsure.