Chicken with Strawberry Balsamic Reduction

Name: Chicken with Strawberry Balsamic Reduction
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved; 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 teaspoon fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Taste of Continents

I discovered this Chicken with Strawberry Balsamic Reduction recipe while experimenting with seasonal flavors in my kitchen. The combination of juicy chicken and the sweet-tart strawberry sauce creates a delightful taste that is both unique and satisfying. I love how the balsamic vinegar enhances the freshness of the strawberries, making this dish a perfect balance of sweet and savory. Whether it's for a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Created by

Helena Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-10T02:07:11.494Z

When I first crafted this dish, I wanted to highlight the beauty of strawberries in a savory context. The vibrant flavors really shine, especially when the balsamic reduction caramelizes on the chicken. I find that marinating the chicken in balsamic vinegar ahead of time not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the meat juicy throughout cooking.

One of my favorite tips is to use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor. I once tried using frozen strawberries, and while it worked, the dish just wasn't the same without that bright freshness. Also, don’t skip the garnish with fresh basil; it really ties everything together and adds a lovely herbaceous note!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Sweet and savory harmony that excites the palate
Beautifully presents as a gourmet dish perfect for entertaining
Quick preparation and cooking make it ideal for busy weeknights

Perfecting the Chicken

Achieving perfectly cooked chicken breast is crucial for this recipe's success. Start by pounding the chicken to an even thickness; this ensures uniform cooking. Chicken breasts should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee they're safe to eat. Watch for a golden-brown sear on each side as you cook in olive oil, which usually takes about 6-7 minutes per side over medium-high heat. If your chicken is browning too fast, lower your heat slightly to avoid burning while ensuring it cooks through.

Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, leading to a juicier bite. If cooking for a crowd, consider using a meat thermometer—it’s more reliable than cutting into the chicken, which can let out juices and compromise moisture.

Crafting the Balsamic Reduction

The strawberry balsamic reduction is the heart of this dish, and the key to creating the perfect sauce lies in balancing the sweet and acidic flavors. Start by cooking the balsamic vinegar and honey together, allowing them to reduce and intensify. You want to simmer until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, which generally takes about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking; if you notice the sauce thickening too quickly, lower the heat to keep it from burning.

Choosing ripe strawberries is essential for richness and flavor. If fresh strawberries aren't available, you can substitute with frozen, but ensure they are thawed and drained well. The texture may vary slightly, but they'll still provide their natural sweetness. To add a twist, consider incorporating a splash of orange juice or zest during the cooking process for a bright citrus note, enhancing the depth of the reduction.

Ingredients

For the chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the strawberry balsamic reduction:

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the strawberry balsamic reduction

In the same skillet, add the balsamic vinegar and honey. Stir in the halved strawberries and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes until the mixture thickens and the strawberries soften, stirring occasionally.

Combine and serve

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it in the strawberry balsamic reduction. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through. Serve drizzled with the reduction and garnished with fresh basil.

Pro Tips

For a variation, consider adding a splash of orange juice to the strawberry reduction for a citrusy kick.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to serve this dish for a gathering, you can prepare the strawberry balsamic reduction ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Before serving, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. Prepare your chicken a few hours in advance and simply reheat it in the skillet with the sauce to achieve a warm and cohesive dish.

For meal prep enthusiasts, this dish is scalable and works well for batch cooking. You can double the amount of chicken and sauce to have flavorful leftovers that can be stored in the fridge for up to four days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, ensure the chicken reaches a temperature of 165°F for food safety.

Serving Suggestions

While Chicken with Strawberry Balsamic Reduction is delightful served on its own, pairing it with sides can enhance the experience. Consider serving it over a bed of creamy polenta or alongside a light quinoa salad to complement the dish’s flavors. A simple arugula salad with olive oil and lemon can balance the richness of the sauce while providing a refreshing crunch.

For a festive touch, serve the chicken on a large platter with the reduction drizzled artfully over the top. Garnishing with fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also a layer of flavor that ties the dish together. This presentation is perfect for impressing your guests during a dinner party or special occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?

While it's best to use fresh strawberries for maximum flavor, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are unavailable. Just be aware that the texture may be slightly different.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This chicken pairs well with a simple side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or even over a bed of quinoa for a complete meal.

→ How long can I store the leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the strawberry balsamic reduction in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it before serving.