Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Strawberries

Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Strawberries is a delightful mix of sweet and tangy flavors that really brightens up a simple chicken dinner. The juicy chicken breasts are coated with a…

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

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Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Strawberries is a delightful mix of sweet and tangy flavors that really brightens up a simple chicken dinner. The juicy chicken breasts are coated with a rich balsamic glaze that has just the right touch of sweetness, while fresh strawberries add a fresh, fruity pop with every bite. It’s a perfect balance of savory and sweet that feels special without being complicated.

I love making this dish when I want something that feels a little fancy but is actually really easy to throw together. The glaze comes together quickly on the stove, and tossing in strawberries at the end adds a lovely burst of color and freshness. I find that using ripe, juicy strawberries makes all the difference—they almost melt into the glaze and create a gentle, delicious sauce that coats the chicken beautifully.

For serving, I like to pair this chicken with a simple side of steamed green beans or a light salad, letting the flavors of the balsamic and strawberries shine front and center. It’s always a hit whether I’m cooking for family or friends, and it feels like a fun twist to a classic chicken dinner. If you want, you can even add a sprinkle of fresh basil or some toasted nuts for a bit more texture and flavor. It’s one of those meals that makes weeknights feel a little more special without a lot of extra fuss.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook quickly and stay juicy. You can swap for chicken thighs if you want darker meat and a bit more flavor. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.

Balsamic vinegar: This is the star of the glaze, giving a tangy, slightly sweet punch. If you don’t have balsamic, a mix of red wine vinegar with a pinch of sugar works, but it won’t be as rich.

Honey or maple syrup: Both add sweetness to balance the tang in the glaze. Maple syrup gives a deeper flavor, while honey is a bit lighter—use whichever you prefer or have on hand.

Strawberries: Fresh and ripe strawberries bring a juicy sweetness that contrasts nicely with the glaze. If strawberries aren’t in season, try fresh raspberries or sliced peaches for a different fruity twist.

Goat cheese or feta: These cheeses add creaminess and a tang that pairs well with the balsamic and fruit. If you’re avoiding dairy, try crumbled tofu or omit cheese altogether for a cleaner taste.

How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Glazed and Juicy?

Cooking the chicken just right and creating that glossy balsamic glaze can be tricky. Here’s how to nail it:

• Season and sear the chicken in hot oil over medium-high heat to get a nice brown crust. Don’t crowd the pan.
• Cook 6-7 minutes per side depending on thickness until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Avoid overcooking to keep it juicy.
• After removing chicken, simmer the glaze ingredients in the same pan to capture those browned bits—it adds flavor.
• Let the glaze thicken gently (3-5 minutes) but don’t let it burn; it should be syrupy and coat the back of a spoon.
• Return chicken to the pan and spoon glaze over it, heating 1-2 minutes so it soaks in but stays juicy inside.

These steps help you get rich flavor and a shiny, sticky finish that holds the fresh strawberry topping perfectly. Patience with the glaze makes all the difference!

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet – perfect for searing chicken and simmering the glaze in one pan to build flavor.
• Tongs – help you flip chicken easily without piercing it and losing juices.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate amounts of vinegar, honey, and mustard to balance the glaze.
• Sharp knife – to slice strawberries and chop onions neatly for a fresh topping.
• Cutting board – provides a safe surface for prepping fruits and veggies.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap chicken breasts for pork chops; pork’s mild flavor works great with the sweet-tart glaze.
• Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the glaze for an herby note that enhances the balsamic.
• Try goat cheese substitutes like blue cheese for a stronger bite or creamy ricotta for milder taste.
• Mix in spinach or arugula on the plate for a peppery green contrast that balances sweetness.

How to Make Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Strawberries

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For The Chicken and Glaze:

• 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
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

For The Topping:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
• ¼ cup goat cheese or feta cheese, crumbled
• Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced for garnish

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, so plan for roughly 25 minutes total. It’s a quick, flavorful meal that comes together easily on the stove.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Season and Sear the Chicken:

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts on both sides with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, cooking about 6-7 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Once done, take the chicken out and set it aside for a moment.

2. Make the Balsamic Glaze:

In the same skillet, turn the heat down to medium. Add the balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes. The mixture should thicken slightly into a nice glaze.

3. Coat the Chicken and Add Toppings:

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the glaze over them, letting the chicken soak up the flavors for 1 to 2 more minutes. Take the skillet off the heat. Now, top each chicken breast with sliced strawberries, red onion, and crumbled goat or feta cheese. Finish by sprinkling fresh basil leaves on top.

4. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve the chicken immediately with any remaining glaze spooned over it and the strawberry topping to add a fresh, fruity touch. This dish pairs nicely with a simple green salad or steamed veggies for a light, balanced meal.

Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to thaw them completely in the fridge overnight before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking and better texture.

Can I Substitute Strawberries with Other Fruits?

Absolutely! Fresh raspberries, sliced peaches, or even cherries can work well as substitutes, adding their own unique sweetness to the balsamic glaze.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover chicken and toppings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the glaze thickens too much.

Can I Make the Balsamic Glaze Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the glaze in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently on the stove before adding it to the chicken for best results.