Strawberry Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Strawberry Chicken is a delicious and unexpected combination of savory, tender chicken paired with sweet, juicy strawberries. The sweetness of the strawberries is balanced by a savory, tangy sauce, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. This dish is fresh, light, and perfect for spring or summer meals. It’s quick to prepare and can easily be served with a side of rice, quinoa, or a crisp salad. The burst of fruity sweetness elevates the chicken, making it a unique and tasty dinner option.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning

For the Strawberry Sauce:

• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Fresh basil or mint (optional for garnish)

Directions

For the Chicken:

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme (or Italian seasoning).
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
3. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside to rest.

For the Strawberry Sauce:

1. In the same skillet, add the balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced strawberries to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, allowing the strawberries to soften and release their juices. Stir occasionally.
3. Once the sauce has thickened slightly, stir in the butter and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce is glossy and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or honey if needed.

To Serve:

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the strawberry sauce over the top.
2. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
3. Garnish with fresh basil or mint and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: Toss in some spinach, arugula, or roasted vegetables for added nutrition and texture.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the strawberry sauce for a subtle kick.
• Use chicken thighs: For a juicier, more flavorful dish, substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs.
• Add cheese: A sprinkle of goat cheese or feta on top of the chicken would add a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the strawberries.
• Serve over rice or quinoa: For a heartier meal, serve the strawberry chicken over rice, quinoa, or a bed of greens.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if necessary.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture, but you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are unavailable. Just make sure to thaw and drain them first.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the strawberry sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat it and add the cooked chicken when ready to serve.

Can I make this dish without balsamic vinegar?
Balsamic vinegar provides a tangy richness to the sauce, but you can substitute with apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar for a different flavor profile.

Can I use a different protein?
Yes, this sauce pairs well with grilled shrimp, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Conclusion

Strawberry Chicken is a light and flavorful dish that perfectly balances the savory taste of chicken with the sweetness of strawberries. The tangy balsamic strawberry sauce adds depth and complexity, making this dish a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a fresh dinner option or something unique for a special meal, Strawberry Chicken is sure to impress!

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