Why Make This Recipe
Strawberry Chicken is a delightful dish that blends the savory taste of chicken with the sweet, fruity flavor of strawberries. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers a unique twist on traditional chicken dishes. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. The addition of fresh ingredients elevates the overall taste, making it a memorable meal.
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 until the chicken is fully cooked through. (Cook time will depend on the thickness of chicken breasts.)
- Meanwhile, whisk together strawberry jam, balsamic vinegar, and water in a small bowl.
- When the chicken is almost done cooking, pour the mixture over the top of the chicken, gently nestling the breasts into the sauce and scraping up any brown bits on the bottom of the pan.
- Reduce heat and bring the sauce to a simmer, letting it bubble for 2-3 more minutes or until it has reduced and thickened a bit.
- Stir in most of the basil and simmer for 1 minute. (You may want to save a little for garnish.)
- Remove chicken breasts from the pan. Pour sauce over each piece. Sprinkle with goat cheese if desired and garnish with remaining basil and sliced strawberries.
How to Serve Strawberry Chicken
Serve Strawberry Chicken hot, drizzled with the sweet sauce and topped with fresh basil and goat cheese, if using. Pair it with a side of rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. The combination of flavors will surely impress your guests and make for a satisfying dinner.
How to Store Strawberry Chicken
To store leftovers, let the chicken cool to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the sauce is too thick after refrigeration, add a little water while reheating to loosen it up.
Tips to Make Strawberry Chicken
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of strawberry jam based on your sweetness preference.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the balsamic vinegar for 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you don’t have goat cheese, feta cheese makes a great substitute.
Variation
You can substitute chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly. Additionally, feel free to add other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a mixed berry chicken dish.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking.
2. What can I serve with Strawberry Chicken?
This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad.
3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add it to the cooked chicken when you are ready to serve.