Strawberry Chicken

why make this recipe

Strawberry Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of chicken with the sweetness of strawberries. This recipe is simple and quick, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. It’s not only tasty but also visually appealing, as the bright colors of the strawberries and basil make the plate pop. Plus, the combination of strawberry jam and balsamic vinegar creates a rich sauce that enhances the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful.

how to make Strawberry Chicken

To make Strawberry Chicken, you will need to follow a few easy steps. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts and cooking them until they are golden brown. Then, mix up a quick sauce with strawberry jam, balsamic vinegar, and a bit of water. Once the chicken is nearly cooked through, pour this sauce over the chicken and let it simmer. Finish up by adding fresh basil and goat cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

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:

1. Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken breasts with a sprinkle of salt on both sides and place them in the pan.
3. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side or until a nice golden crust forms.
4. Flip the chicken and cook for another 4-5 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through. (Cook time will depend on the thickness of chicken breasts.)
5. Meanwhile, whisk together the strawberry jam, balsamic vinegar, and water in a small bowl.
6. When the chicken is just about finished cooking, pour the jam mixture over the chicken, nestling it into the sauce and scraping up any brown bits on the bottom of the pan.
7. Reduce the heat and bring the sauce to a simmer, letting it bubble for 2-3 more minutes or until it thickens a bit.
8. Stir in most of the basil and simmer for 1 minute. (You may want to save a little for garnish.)
9. Remove chicken breasts from the pan and pour sauce over the top of each piece.
10. 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 rich sauce. It pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. The goat cheese adds a lovely creaminess, while the fresh strawberries and basil enhance the overall flavor.

how to store Strawberry Chicken

You can store any leftovers of Strawberry Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

tips to make Strawberry Chicken

• Make sure the chicken breasts are of uniform thickness for even cooking.
• Use good quality balsamic vinegar for a deeper flavor.
• Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more water if necessary.
• Fresh strawberries add a nice touch, so feel free to use as many or as few as you like for garnish.

Serving Ideas

Serve Strawberry Chicken alongside mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for a comforting meal. You can also pair it with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a balanced dish.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Chicken is a wonderful way to enjoy a delicious meal with a twist. Its sweet and savory flavor combination is sure to impress family and friends alike. Don’t hesitate to make this dish for your next dinner!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
   Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.

2. Can I substitute strawberry jam with another fruit jam?
   Absolutely! You can experiment with other jams like raspberry or apricot for a different flavor profile.

3. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
   Yes, Strawberry Chicken can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, making it a great option for meal prep.

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