This Easy Strawberry Basil Chicken is a delightful dish that mixes juicy chicken with sweet strawberries and fresh basil. It’s colorful and bursting with flavor!
Nothing says summer like strawberries, right? I love how quick it is to make—just grill the chicken, toss in the toppings, and you’re all set for a tasty meal!
I often prepare this when I want something light and fun. Serve it with a side salad, and you’ve got a simple dinner that impresses family and friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect here as they cook quickly. You can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier option. If you’re looking for a low-carb choice, try using zucchini noodles as a base instead of greens.
Strawberry Jam: I prefer using homemade or artisanal jam for a fresher taste. If strawberries aren’t available, raspberry or peach preserves also work well. For a sugar-free option, consider using sugar-free preserves or making a quick sauce from fresh strawberries instead.
Balsamic Vinegar: Balsamic adds a nice tang. If you don’t have it, red wine vinegar can be an excellent substitute, though it will change the flavor slightly. Personally, I love the special touch balsamic brings!
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is a must for this recipe, contributing a lovely aroma. In a pinch, dried basil can be used—just reduce the amount to about a teaspoon as it’s more concentrated.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken properly can be tricky, but it’s key for this recipe! Here are some tips to get it right:
- Always preheat your skillet to medium-high heat before adding oil and chicken; this helps it sear nicely.
- Cook chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F/74°C).
- If you notice the chicken browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to avoid burning the outside while undercooking the inside.
- Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking so the juices redistribute, making the chicken juicier and more flavorful.
Easy Strawberry Basil Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam or preserves
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (about 1/4 cup)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
- Fresh strawberries for garnish (optional)
- Fresh greens or spinach (to serve)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in approximately 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. This adds flavor from the outset!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). When done, take them out of the pan and set them aside.
3. Make the Strawberry Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to low, and add the strawberry jam, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Stir everything together well and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes. The mixture should get heated through and slightly thicken.
4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, and spoon the fresh strawberry basil sauce on top. Cook for another minute or two, allowing the chicken to soak up some of that delicious sauce flavor!
5. Plate and Garnish:
To serve, place the chicken over a bed of fresh greens or spinach. Top it off with the sliced fresh basil, crumbled feta or goat cheese, and fresh strawberry slices if you like. It looks as good as it tastes!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately while warm, and enjoy this sweet and savory chicken dish! It’s a perfect meal for any weeknight dinner!
This recipe is sure to become a favorite—healthy, quick, and loaded with flavor!
FAQ for Easy Strawberry Basil Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes! If you’re using frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The safest way to do this is to place it in the refrigerator overnight. For a quicker method, submerge the sealed chicken in cold water for about an hour, changing the water halfway through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this dish dairy-free, simply omit the feta or goat cheese. You can also replace it with dairy-free cheese alternatives if you like a similar creaminess. The dish will still be delicious without it!
Can I Prepare the Sauce in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the strawberry sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it on the stove before pouring it over the cooked chicken, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen it if needed.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over medium-low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. This dish is great on its own or served over a fresh salad!
