Chicken with Strawberry Balsamic Reduction

Name: Chicken with Strawberry Balsamic Reduction
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon butter; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love the vibrant flavors that come together in this Chicken with Strawberry Balsamic Reduction. The sweetness of the strawberries melds perfectly with the tangy balsamic vinegar, creating a delightful glaze that elevates the simple chicken breast to something special. I was initially skeptical about combining fruit with savory dishes, but this recipe opened my eyes to a whole new world of culinary possibilities. It’s quick to prepare, delicious, and makes for a beautiful presentation, whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or guests.

Created by

Lillian Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-07T15:16:14.567Z

When I first made this Chicken with Strawberry Balsamic Reduction, I was astonished by its simplicity and the depth of flavor it delivered. The key is using ripe strawberries; their natural sweetness enhances the richness of the balsamic reduction. I've learned that simmering the strawberries gently allows them to break down and meld into a syrupy glaze without losing their vibrant color and character.

My favorite part of making this dish is watching the transformation of the ingredients. The reduction thickens beautifully, and the smell that fills the kitchen is simply irresistible. Pair this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal that always impresses!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A harmonious blend of sweet and tangy flavors
Simple yet elegant presentation perfect for entertaining
Quick cooking time making it ideal for busy weeknights

      

Ingredient Insights

The vibrant strawberries used in this recipe not only add sweetness but also a pop of color that enhances the overall presentation. Fresh strawberries are crucial in this dish; they should be bright red and firm, ensuring a juicy reduction. If fresh strawberries are unavailable, frozen ones can be used. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the skillet to prevent the reduction from becoming too watery.

Balsamic vinegar plays a dual role in this reduction: it provides the tang that balances the sweetness of the strawberries while also adding depth to the dish. Opt for a high-quality balsamic vinegar for the best flavor, as cheaper varieties may lack the complexity needed to elevate your reduction. If you want to experiment, try adding a splash of red wine or a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to enhance the tangy profile.

Cooking Techniques

When cooking the chicken breasts, maintaining a consistent medium-high heat is critical for achieving a golden-brown crust. If the heat is too low, the chicken will steam rather than sear, resulting in a pale finish. Look for a golden color on each side before removing them from the skillet, and always check for doneness with a meat thermometer, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfectly juicy chicken.

For the strawberry balsamic reduction, you want to keep an eye on the sauce as it simmers. Stir it occasionally to prevent sticking, and look for it to thicken to a syrupy consistency. If it becomes too thick, adding a splash of water or additional balsamic vinegar can help loosen it. Conversely, if it's too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to intensify the flavor and achieve the desired thickness.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Strawberry Balsamic Reduction

1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon butter
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Preparation Steps

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

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

Remove from the skillet and keep warm.

Make the Balsamic Reduction

In the same skillet, add sliced strawberries, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens. Stir in the butter until well combined.

Serve the Dish

Slice the chicken and drizzle the strawberry balsamic reduction over the top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavors further, consider marinating the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and garlic for an hour before cooking. Also, use high-quality balsamic vinegar for the best results.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing this chicken with sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad can create a balanced meal that complements the sweetness of the strawberry balsamic reduction. For a heartier option, consider serving it over a bed of quinoa or alongside creamy polenta. These sides not only enhance the overall flavor profile but also add texture variety to the plate.

If you're looking to impress guests, consider plating the dish artistically. Slice the chicken diagonally and fan it out on a serving platter. Drizzle the strawberry balsamic reduction artistically over the chicken and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Adding a sprinkle of feta or goat cheese can also provide a savory contrast to the sweet glaze.

Make-Ahead Tips

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the balsamic reduction in advance. Simply store the cooled sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When ready to serve, gently reheat it in a small saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much during storage.

If you're meal prepping for the week, cooked chicken breasts can be stored in the fridge for around 3-4 days. Just slice the chicken before serving to save time, and reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve its moisture. This makes for a quick and elegant meal option even on the busiest of days.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

It's best to use fresh strawberries, but if you're in a pinch, frozen can work. Just thaw and drain excess liquid before using.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

This chicken pairs beautifully with mixed greens, rice pilaf, or roasted vegetables.

→ Can I make this balsamic reduction ahead of time?

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

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.