Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Strawberries

Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Strawberries is a fresh and flavorful dish that combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze and the bright, juicy pop of…

By Alina • February 1, 2026 • Reading time: 6 min

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Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Strawberries is a fresh and flavorful dish that combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze and the bright, juicy pop of fresh strawberries. The glaze has just the right balance of rich vinegar and a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the fruit and the savory chicken. It’s a colorful plate that looks as good as it tastes.

I love making this dish when I want something that feels special but is still super simple to put together. The strawberries add such a fun surprise—fresh and light against the rich glaze—and it never fails to get compliments when I serve it for company or family dinner. One tip I like is to let the glaze thicken just a bit so it clings nicely to the chicken; it makes every bite a little more delicious.

This chicken dinner goes really well with a side of rice or a simple green salad, which helps balance out all the flavors without taking away from the star of the plate. I often find myself making extra glaze to drizzle on at the table because it’s that good. It’s definitely a dish that feels like a treat but comes together without any fuss.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken breasts: They work great here because they cook evenly and stay juicy when seared well. You can swap for boneless thighs if you want a richer, more tender meat.

Balsamic vinegar: This adds the signature tangy-sweet flavor to the glaze. If you don’t have balsamic, pomegranate molasses or a mix of red wine vinegar and honey can work too.

Honey or maple syrup: This balances the tang of the vinegar with sweetness. Maple syrup gives a nice earthy twist; simple sugar can work if needed, but the flavor won’t be as deep.

Strawberries: Fresh is best for the bright, juicy contrast. You could also try raspberries or chopped peaches for a different fruity note.

Fresh basil: This herb adds a lovely fresh, slightly spicy aroma. If you can’t find basil, fresh mint or cilantro would offer a different but pleasant flavor.

How to Get the Perfect Balsamic Glaze Consistency?

It’s key for the glaze to be thick enough to coat the chicken without running off. Here’s how I do it:

• Use medium heat to gently simmer the balsamic vinegar and honey.
• Stir often to prevent burning and help it reduce evenly.
• Cook until the liquid reduces by about half or coats the back of a spoon.
• If it thickens too much, add a splash of water to loosen it.
• Adding butter at the end creates a smooth, rich finish that clings nicely to the chicken.

Patience in this step really pays off — the glaze turns rich and syrupy, making every bite a tasty experience.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet – perfect for searing the chicken evenly and simmering the balsamic glaze in one pan.
• Meat thermometer – helps you check that the chicken is perfectly cooked without guessing.
• Mixing bowl – handy for tossing the strawberries and basil together before serving.
• Spoon or spatula – lets you stir the glaze and baste the chicken easily.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap chicken for pork chops – they also pair well with balsamic and fruit for a tasty twist.
• Add crumbled goat cheese or feta – it adds creaminess that contrasts nicely with the sweet glaze.
• Mix in fresh thyme or rosemary with basil – these herbs deepen the flavor and add earthiness.
• Try sliced almonds or toasted pecans on top – for a crunchy texture and nutty note.

Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Strawberries

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chicken and Glaze:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• Optional: 1 tablespoon butter

For the Strawberry Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

How Much Time Will You Need?

This dish takes about 25 minutes total — around 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook. It’s a quick recipe, perfect for a weeknight meal when you want something fresh and flavorful without much fuss.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Season and Sear the Chicken:

Start by sprinkling salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken breasts. Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Once hot, place the chicken in the skillet and cook until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes on each side. Make sure the inside is fully cooked, reaching 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken and set it aside.

2. Make the Balsamic Glaze:

Lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until you smell its aroma. Pour in the balsamic vinegar and honey, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer until it thickens and reduces by half, about 4-5 minutes. For a smoother texture, stir in the butter just before finishing.

3. Prepare the Strawberry and Basil Topping:

While the glaze cooks, toss the chopped strawberries and basil together in a bowl. This fresh topping will add a burst of color and flavor.

4. Finish and Serve:

Put the chicken back into the skillet and spoon some of the glaze over it. Let it warm in the glaze for 1 to 2 minutes. Plate the chicken, drizzle with extra glaze, and top generously with the strawberry and basil mixture. Serve right away, with your favorite side like rice, salad, or roasted veggies.

Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for better searing.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Keep any leftover chicken and glaze in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid drying it out.

Can I Substitute the Strawberries?

Absolutely! Raspberries, blueberries, or chopped peaches make delicious alternatives that still offer bright, fruity flavors.

Is There a Way to Make the Glaze Thicker?

Yes, simply simmer the balsamic vinegar and honey mixture a bit longer until it reduces and coats the back of a spoon. Adding a small pat of butter at the end can also help create a richer, thicker glaze.