Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Strawberries
Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Strawberries is a delightful mix of tender chicken breasts coated in a rich balsamic glaze, topped off with juicy, fresh strawberries. The combination of the tangy…
By Ava
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Reading time: 5 min
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Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Strawberries is a delightful mix of tender chicken breasts coated in a rich balsamic glaze, topped off with juicy, fresh strawberries. The combination of the tangy glaze with the natural sweetness of the strawberries creates a bright and flavorful dish that feels both fresh and satisfying.
I love making this dish when I want something a little different but still easy to pull together. The glaze is simple to make, and the strawberries add such a fun pop of color and flavor. It’s one of those meals that surprises everyone because the sweet and tangy tastes work so nicely with the chicken.
My favorite way to serve it is over a bed of rice or alongside some roasted veggies. It’s perfect for a casual dinner but also pretty enough to offer when friends come over. Whenever I make it, there’s always a little extra glaze to drizzle around the plate—it feels fancy but takes hardly any effort at all.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless give you quick cooking and easy slicing. If you want, thighs work too—they stay juicier but take a little longer to cook.
Balsamic Vinegar: This is key for the tangy-sweet glaze. Use aged balsamic for a richer flavor if you can. If not, regular balsamic works well or substitute with red wine vinegar and a pinch of brown sugar.
Honey or Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness to balance the vinegar. Maple syrup or agave nectar can be good swaps if you want a different sweetness.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries bring brightness and a pop of color. If in season, go for ripe and firm berries for the best texture. Blueberries or raspberries make good substitutes if you prefer.
Fresh Basil: Basil adds a fresh, herbal note that lifts the dish. If you don’t have basil, try fresh mint or parsley for a slightly different but still fresh taste.
How Do You Get the Perfect Balsamic Glaze for Chicken?
The glaze is what makes this dish special. Here’s how I like to get it just right:
- After cooking the chicken, keep the pan on medium heat to use those flavorful brown bits left behind.
- Add balsamic vinegar and honey or brown sugar, stirring constantly to combine.
- Simmer gently, stirring often, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon—this usually takes 3-5 minutes.
- Be careful not to over-reduce or burn the glaze. If it gets too thick, add a splash of water to loosen it.
- Return chicken to the pan, turning it to coat evenly in glaze for a minute or two before serving.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large nonstick or stainless steel skillet – perfect for browning the chicken evenly without sticking.
- Tongs – help you flip the chicken safely and coat it well with the glaze.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the balsamic vinegar and honey just right for the glaze.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for chopping the fresh strawberries and basil neatly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for pork chops – they work great with the balsamic glaze and stay juicy.
- Add crumbled goat cheese or feta on top – the tanginess pairs well with strawberries and balsamic.
- Stir in fresh thyme or rosemary with the basil for a more herbaceous flavor.
- Mix diced avocado or toasted nuts like walnuts for extra creaminess and crunch.
How to Make Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Strawberries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For The Balsamic Glaze:
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
For The Topping:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, thinly sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and flavorful meal perfect for any weeknight.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Cook the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts on both sides with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Make the Balsamic Glaze:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the balsamic vinegar, honey (or brown sugar), and Dijon mustard if you like. Stir the mixture frequently and let it simmer for about 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens slightly into a syrupy glaze.
3. Coat Chicken with Glaze and Add Topping:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and turn them to coat well with the balsamic glaze. Let them cook for another 1 to 2 minutes so the flavors soak in. Take the skillet off the heat. Spoon the chopped strawberries over the chicken and sprinkle with fresh basil. Drizzle any extra glaze and strawberry pieces from the pan over the top before serving.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and better texture.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to keep the glaze from drying out.
Can I Substitute Strawberries with Other Fruits?
Absolutely! Fresh blueberries, raspberries, or even sliced peaches can work well as a topping, adding their own unique sweet and tangy flavors.
Is There a Low-Sugar Option for the Glaze?
Yes, you can reduce or omit the honey or brown sugar and rely on the natural sweetness of the balsamic vinegar and strawberries. Just be aware the glaze will be less sweet and a bit more tangy.