Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out for its fresh, clean flavors and quick preparation. The sweetness of the strawberries pairs perfectly with the herbs and chicken, creating a dish that’s both light and indulgent. It’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-optional, and packed with protein. Whether you’re serving it for a summer dinner or a spring lunch, Strawberry Basil Chicken delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under 30 minutes.
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Strawberry Basil Chicken – A Fresh, Flavorful Twist for Any Table
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Strawberry Basil Chicken is a light yet flavorful dish featuring juicy chicken breasts topped with a sweet-tart strawberry balsamic glaze and fresh basil. It’s a refreshing twist on savory chicken, perfect for summer dinners or elegant weeknight meals.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- For the Strawberry Balsamic Sauce:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
- For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side or until golden and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- Make the Strawberry Sauce: In the same skillet, add strawberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries soften and release their juices.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer for another minute until glossy.
- Combine: Return the chicken to the pan and spoon the strawberry sauce over it. Simmer for 1–2 minutes so the flavors blend.
- Top with fresh basil and crumbled feta or goat cheese.
- Serve immediately with rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Notes
- Substitute strawberries with raspberries or cherries for variation.
- Grill the chicken instead of pan-searing for a smoky flavor.
- For a dairy-free version, skip the cheese or use a vegan alternative.
- This dish tastes amazing served cold over a bed of arugula as a salad!
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this dish. Pound them to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
Olive oil: Adds rich flavor and ensures a golden, crispy sear.
Salt and black pepper: Basic but essential seasonings to enhance every flavor.
Garlic powder: Infuses the chicken with subtle, savory depth.
Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries add natural sweetness and vibrant color.
Fresh basil: Provides a fragrant, herbal contrast that balances the fruit’s sweetness.
Red onion: Adds a bit of bite and texture to the strawberry mixture.
Balsamic glaze or vinegar: Brings tangy richness and ties the sweet and savory flavors together beautifully.
Lemon juice: Brightens and enhances the flavors while adding freshness.
Honey (optional): For those who like a touch of extra sweetness in their glaze.
Feta or goat cheese (optional): Adds a creamy, tangy finish that complements the strawberries and basil.
Directions
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C). Remove from the skillet and let rest for 5 minutes.
Meanwhile, prepare the strawberry basil topping. In a medium bowl, combine diced strawberries, chopped basil, and finely minced red onion. Drizzle with balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar) and lemon juice, then toss lightly. For a hint of sweetness, add honey if desired.
Slice the rested chicken and plate it. Spoon the strawberry mixture generously over the top. Finish with crumbled feta or goat cheese and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for presentation. Serve warm or slightly chilled for a refreshing, colorful meal.
Essential Equipment
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftover chicken and strawberry mixture separately in airtight containers. The chicken will keep for 3 days in the refrigerator, and the strawberry topping is best within 24 hours. Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet or microwave, and top with fresh salsa just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Variations and Customizations
Grilled Strawberry Basil Chicken: Cook the chicken on a grill for a smoky summer flavor.
Strawberry Balsamic Reduction: Simmer balsamic vinegar and honey until thickened, then drizzle over the finished dish.
Add Greens: Serve the chicken over baby spinach, arugula, or mixed greens for a salad-style meal.
Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the strawberry mixture for heat.
Creamy Upgrade: Spread whipped goat cheese on the chicken before topping it with strawberries.
Citrus Twist: Substitute lime juice for lemon for a zesty brightness.
Vegan Option: Replace chicken with grilled tofu or cauliflower steaks for a plant-based version.
Berry Blend: Combine strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for extra color and depth.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted almonds, pistachios, or walnuts on top for added texture.
Meal Prep Friendly: Cook the chicken ahead of time and prepare the strawberry topping fresh before serving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are best, but thawed and drained frozen strawberries can work.
Can I make the strawberry topping ahead?
Yes, but it’s best prepared up to one hour before serving to keep the fruit fresh.
What cheese pairs best with this recipe?
Goat cheese or feta adds tangy creaminess that complements the sweet strawberries.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work beautifully—just adjust the cooking time.
What can I serve with Strawberry Basil Chicken?
Rice, quinoa, roasted potatoes, or a fresh garden salad pair perfectly.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
Use a thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Can I serve it cold?
Yes, this dish is excellent chilled, making it great for picnics or light lunches.
What if I don’t have balsamic glaze?
Mix balsamic vinegar with a little honey or brown sugar and simmer until thickened.
Can I add other herbs?
Yes, mint or parsley both pair nicely with strawberries.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Conclusion
Strawberry Basil Chicken is a celebration of fresh flavors and effortless elegance. Juicy, perfectly cooked chicken meets a refreshing mix of sweet strawberries, fragrant basil, and tangy balsamic glaze in a dish that’s light yet satisfying. It’s the kind of recipe that looks impressive, tastes incredible, and comes together in minutes. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or serving guests on a summer evening, this recipe delivers a vibrant, memorable dining experience every time.
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