Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Strawberries is a fresh and tasty dish that combines the juicy sweetness of strawberries with the tangy richness of balsamic glaze, all perfectly cooked on tender chicken breasts. The contrast between the juicy fruit and the savory glaze makes every bite interesting and delicious.
I love making this dish when I want something light but still packed with flavor. The strawberries add a nice pop of color and a little natural sweetness that balances the tangy balsamic, and I always enjoy how the glaze thickens just enough to coat the chicken in a glossy finish. It feels fancy but is actually super easy to prepare, which is a big win for weeknight dinners.
My favorite way to serve it is over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside some roasted veggies. The flavors really come together, and it feels like a complete meal without any fuss. Plus, it’s a great way to impress family or friends with something a bit different but still really comforting and familiar.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken breasts
- Boneless and skinless work best for even cooking and quick prep. If you prefer, thighs are great too—they stay juicy and add more flavor.
- Balsamic vinegar
- This gives the dish its tangy, slightly sweet base. Look for a good quality one for richer flavor. If you don’t have balsamic, red wine vinegar with a touch of sugar is a decent substitute.
- Honey or maple syrup
- This adds sweetness to balance the tart vinegar. Use whichever you prefer, or try brown sugar if you’re out.
- Fresh strawberries
- Fresh, ripe strawberries add bright sweetness and texture. If fresh aren’t in season, frozen can work but drain them well so they don’t water down the sauce.
- Fresh basil
- It adds a lovely herbal note and bright color. If you don’t have basil, try fresh mint or parsley instead.
How Do You Make a Thick, Glossy Balsamic Glaze That Sticks?
The balsamic glaze is key to coating the chicken perfectly and packing in flavor. Here’s how I do it:
- After cooking chicken, reduce heat to medium before adding garlic—this prevents burning and keeps garlic sweet.
- Add vinegar and honey, stir, and bring to a gentle simmer. Scrape the pan bits for extra flavor.
- Let the liquid cook down slowly for 5-7 minutes until it thickens. It should coat the back of a spoon without being sticky or syrupy.
- Optional: Stir in a small piece of butter at the end for richness and a smoother texture.
- Return chicken to the pan, spoon glaze over it, and cook another minute to let flavors meld.
Patience is important here—the slow simmer allows the flavors to concentrate and the glaze to thicken just right.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large nonstick or stainless steel skillet – perfect for cooking chicken evenly and making the glaze in one pan.
- Tongs – great for flipping chicken without tearing the meat.
- Sharp knife – essential for slicing strawberries and chopping basil quickly.
- Cutting board – use it to prep your fresh ingredients safely and efficiently.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – helps you scrape the glaze off the pan without scratching.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs if you want juicier meat that stays tender during cooking.
- Add crumbled goat cheese or feta on top for a tangy, creamy contrast to the sweet glaze.
- Toss in fresh spinach or arugula just before serving for a peppery green boost.
- Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a subtle spicy kick that balances the sweetness.
How to Make Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Strawberries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- Fresh basil, thinly sliced, for garnish
- Optional: 1 tablespoon butter (for extra richness in glaze)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 25 minutes total. You’ll spend 10-15 minutes cooking the chicken and preparing the glaze, plus a few minutes to slice strawberries and basil. It’s quick and perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Cook the Chicken:
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook about 6-7 minutes per side, until well browned and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Make the Balsamic Glaze:
Lower the heat to medium. Add minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the balsamic vinegar and honey, stirring to combine and scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5-7 minutes until it thickens into a syrupy glaze. For extra richness, stir in butter now if you’d like.
3. Finish and Serve:
Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the glaze over the top. Cook for 1-2 more minutes to coat the chicken in the sauce. Remove from heat, then transfer the chicken to serving plates. Top with fresh sliced strawberries and sprinkle with fresh basil. Serve immediately, alongside rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken breasts in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a nice sear.
Can I Prepare the Balsamic Glaze Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. You can make the glaze up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove before adding it to the cooked chicken.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover chicken and glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to avoid drying out the chicken.
What Can I Serve with Balsamic Glazed Chicken and Strawberries?
This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad to balance the sweet and tangy flavors.