Balsamic Chicken and Strawberries

Short Description

Tender grilled chicken breasts are marinated in a tangy balsamic–garlic mixture and topped with a fresh strawberry–basil salsa, resulting in an elegant yet simple main dish that balances sweet and savory flavours.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Seasonal flair – ripe strawberries add bright colour and gentle sweetness that complement the depth of aged balsamic vinegar.

• Quick week-night preparation – active prep time requires approximately 15 minutes, after which the grill does the work.

• Light yet satisfying – lean protein, minimal added sugar, and fresh herbs maintain a wholesome profile.

• Versatile serving options – excellent over mixed greens, alongside grilled vegetables, or with crusty bread to soak up the juices.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken & Marinade:

• Olive oil

• Balsamic vinegar

• Garlic cloves, minced

• Italian seasoning

• Salt

• Ground black pepper

• Boneless, skinless chicken-breast cutlets (about 5–5.5 oz / 140–155 g each)

Strawberry Topping:

• Fresh strawberries, diced

• Brown sugar

• Balsamic vinegar

• Ground black pepper

• Fresh basil, chopped

Directions

1. Marinate the chicken – In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Place the chicken cutlets in a sealable bag, pour in the marinade, remove excess air, and refrigerate for a minimum of one hour, or up to twelve hours.

2. Prepare the topping – While the grill preheats, combine diced strawberries, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, black pepper, and chopped basil in a small bowl. Allow the mixture to rest for 10 to 15 minutes so that the flavours meld.

3. Grill the chicken – Preheat the grill to medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off, and discard the remaining marinade. Grill the cutlets for approximately 6 to 8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 °F (74 °C).

4. Assemble and serve – Transfer the chicken to serving plates and spoon the strawberry topping over each cutlet just before serving.

Servings and timing

• Yield: 6 servings (one 5–5.5 oz cutlet plus topping per person)

• Active preparation: 15 minutes

• Marinating (inactive): 1–12 hours

• Grill time: 12–16 minutes

• Total time: approximately 1 hour 30 minutes (assuming a 1-hour marination)

Variations

• Indoor cooking method: Sear the marinated chicken in a lightly oiled cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, then transfer to a 375 °F (190 °C) oven for 10 minutes.

• Alternate proteins: Substitute boneless chicken thighs or turkey cutlets; adjust cooking times according to thickness.

• Fruit variations: Use raspberries or sliced peaches in late summer for a different fruit profile.

• Herb substitutions: Replace basil with fresh mint or tarragon for a unique aromatic twist.

• Dairy addition: Crumble goat cheese or feta over the plated chicken for a creamy contrast.

storage/reheating

• Refrigeration: Store cooled chicken and strawberry topping separately in airtight containers for up to three days.

• Reheating chicken: Warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in a 325 °F (160 °C) oven for approximately 8 minutes to avoid drying.

• Topping: Best served cold; stir before using.

• Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the fresh berries deteriorates upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast cutlets?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well; grill them for approximately 5 to 6 minutes longer per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165 °F (74 °C).

May I cook the chicken without a grill?

Certainly. Pan-sear the chicken in an oven-safe skillet, then finish in a preheated 375 °F (190 °C) oven for 10 minutes or until fully cooked.

Is it possible to use frozen strawberries for the topping?

Frozen strawberries may be used if fresh are unavailable. Thaw them completely, drain excess liquid, and pat dry before combining with the other topping ingredients.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

A minimum of one hour is recommended for adequate flavour infusion. Marinating for up to 12 hours enhances the depth of flavour without compromising texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

All listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free; however, to ensure compliance, verify that the balsamic vinegar and any seasonings are certified gluten-free.

What can I use instead of brown sugar for the strawberry topping?

Honey or maple syrup may be substituted in equal measure; note that liquid sweeteners will yield a slightly more fluid topping.

Can I prepare the strawberry topping in advance?

Yes, you may prepare the topping up to four hours ahead of time. Cover it and refrigerate, then stir to redistribute juices before serving.

How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill grates?

Ensure that the grill grates are clean, preheated, and lightly oiled. Allow the chicken to sear and release naturally before attempting to flip it.

Can I halve or double this recipe?

Absolutely. Simply adjust the ingredient quantities proportionally. The cooking time is governed by the thickness of the chicken rather than the total quantity.

Which side dishes pair well with this entrée?

Consider serving a spinach and arugula salad, grilled asparagus, or a quinoa pilaf to complement the vibrant flavours without overwhelming the dish.

Conclusion

Balsamic Chicken and Strawberries combines savory, acidic, and sweet elements in a dish that is both refined and effortless. Its vibrant flavours and straightforward technique make it an ideal choice for al fresco gatherings and midweek dinners alike, particularly during the height of berry season.