You know that feeling when something just works? That’s exactly how I’d describe Balsamic Chicken with Strawberry Basil Relish. It’s fresh, vibrant, and honestly, one of those dishes that tastes like summer on a plate.
The first time I tried this combo, I was skeptical. Strawberries? With chicken? But let me tell you—when those juicy berries mingle with balsamic vinegar and fresh basil, they transform into something magical. And the smell while the chicken sizzles? Let’s just say your neighbors might “accidentally” pop over.
This Balsamic Chicken with Strawberry Basil Relish recipe is everything a good dinner should be: quick, wholesome, bursting with flavor, and just a little unexpected. It’s fancy enough to serve guests but simple enough for a Wednesday night. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll want to spoon that strawberry basil relish on just about everything.
Let’s dig in, shall we?
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Where the Flavor Comes From
Why balsamic chicken with strawberry basil relish works
You might’ve seen this combo floating around Pinterest or maybe heard it mentioned in a farmer’s market demo. It’s not your typical comfort food, but somehow—maybe because of that—it feels like a revelation.
The chicken gets a quick marinade in tangy balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and salt. Simple, but bold. And when grilled or seared, it develops this rich, slightly caramelized crust that pairs perfectly with the bright, juicy relish.
That relish? Strawberries (fresh only, please), sweet and a little tart, red onion for kick, basil for freshness, a dash of honey for balance, and just enough balsamic to tie it all together.
What makes this variation fresh and exciting
Some balsamic chicken recipes lean into jammy glazes or syrups. Not this one. It’s all about contrast—warm meets cool, sweet meets savory, cooked meets fresh.
And while others might roast the strawberries or turn them into a compote, here they stay raw and lively, offering crunch, juiciness, and a pop of color.
Trust me: if you’re bored of the same old grilled chicken, this one’s going to shake things up—in the best way.
What You’ll Need and How to Prep It
The necessary ingredients for best Balsamic Chicken with Strawberry Basil Relish
Here’s your shopping list—short, sweet, and nothing weird:
For the chicken:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless skinless chicken breasts | 4 |
| Balsamic vinegar | 2 tbsp |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Garlic (minced) | 1 clove |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
For the strawberry basil relish:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fresh strawberries (diced) | 1 ½ cups |
| Red onion (finely chopped) | 2 tbsp |
| Fresh basil (chopped) | 2 tbsp |
| Balsamic vinegar | 1 tsp |
| Honey (optional) | ½ tsp |
| Salt | Pinch |
That’s it. Nothing fancy, but when it all comes together? Wow.
Pro tips for preparing and marinating
Here’s the thing: you don’t need to marinate the chicken overnight. Even 20 minutes does the trick thanks to the punchy balsamic.
But if you’ve got time, go ahead and let it sit up to two hours in the fridge—it only gets better. Don’t skip the garlic in the marinade either. It’s subtle but adds depth.
And a little tip? Pound the chicken breasts so they’re even in thickness. It helps them cook more uniformly and stay juicy.
While the chicken’s soaking up flavor, whip up the relish. It takes less than five minutes, and chilling it in the fridge brings everything together beautifully.
Let’s Get Cooking
How to cook chicken to perfection
You can use a grill pan, outdoor grill, or regular skillet here—whatever’s easiest.
Just preheat it over medium-high, and don’t crowd the pan. You want a nice sear, not a steam.
Cook each piece for 5–7 minutes per side. The chicken should hit 165°F in the thickest part. No thermometer? Slice into the middle—it should be opaque and juicy, not pink or dry.
Once it’s done, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This is the part I always want to rush through, but it really does lock in the juices.
Combining chicken with strawberry basil relish
Now the fun part.
Take that chilled relish out of the fridge and give it a gentle stir. The strawberries might have released some juice—that’s good. It’s flavor.
Spoon a generous heap over each chicken breast. Let some of the juices run down the sides. You want every bite to have a little sweet, a little sharp, and a lot of freshness.
You can serve it as-is, or slice the chicken before topping it—totally up to you.
Smart Tips, Pairings & Questions
Tips, substitutions, and variations
Want to riff a little? Go for it.
- Red onion too strong? Use shallots.
- Need it sweeter? Add a touch more honey.
- Want a spicy kick? Red pepper flakes are your friend.
- Basil MIA? Try mint—it’s different but works shockingly well.
- Strawberries not in season? Raspberries or diced peaches could work in a pinch.
You could even add a soft cheese—like mozzarella pearls or crumbled feta—on top of the chicken before spooning on the relish.
And if you’re feeling fancy? A drizzle of reduced balsamic glaze right before serving makes it look restaurant-level.
What to serve with it and common questions
This dish is kind of a chameleon. You can dress it up or down.
Great side ideas:
- Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Garlic-roasted potatoes
- Herbed couscous
- Grilled sourdough
- A bed of quinoa or farro
FAQ time: Balsamic Chicken with Strawberry Basil Relish
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Not really. They’ll be mushy and lose their sparkle. Fresh is the way to go here.
How long will leftovers keep?
Store chicken and relish separately. The chicken lasts 3–4 days in the fridge; the relish is best eaten within 1–2.
Can I meal prep this?
Absolutely. Cook the chicken ahead and assemble when ready to eat. Just keep the relish fresh and cold.
Nutritional Snapshot (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Approximate Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 |
| Protein | 32g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 9g |
| Sugar | 6g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 220mg |
| Cholesterol | 75mg |
Light, lean, and naturally gluten-free. It’s one of those meals that leaves you full but not sluggish.
Final Thoughts
This Balsamic Chicken with Strawberry Basil Relish is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be bland or boring. It’s vibrant, satisfying, and so dang easy.
There’s just something so right about that juicy chicken with a spoonful of sweet-tart strawberries and fresh basil on top. I’ve made this recipe more times than I can count—and I always wish I’d doubled it.
Looking for more fresh dinner ideas?
Try these next:
- Grilled Chicken with Strawberry Balsamic Glaze & Rictta Salata Orzo Salad
- Grilled Chicken with Strawberry Balsamic Glaze & Feta Orzo Salad
- Mediterranean Chicken Balsamic & Orzo with Feta & Grilled Zucchini
Tried this Balsamic Chicken with Strawberry Basil Relish recipe? I’d love to hear about it!
Leave a review, rate it, or share your creations on Pinterest. Seeing your take on it makes my day.
Balsamic Chicken with Strawberry Basil Relish – Easy & Fresh Dinner Idea
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Balsamic Chicken with Strawberry Basil Relish is everything you didn’t know you needed in a weeknight dinner—tangy, juicy, sweet, and incredibly fresh. The balsamic-marinated chicken is perfectly seared and topped with a cool, vibrant strawberry basil relish that takes the whole dish from “hmm” to “wow.” It’s fast, fancy-feeling, and totally foolproof. The kind of meal that makes people think you know what you’re doing in the kitchen—even if you don’t.
Ingredients
For the chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the strawberry basil relish:
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, diced
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- ½ teaspoon honey (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
In a bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
Place chicken breasts in a dish or resealable bag, pour marinade over, and let sit for 20 minutes (or up to 2 hours if you’ve got the time).
Meanwhile, mix together the diced strawberries, chopped red onion, basil, vinegar, honey (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir gently and chill in the fridge.
Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F).
Let chicken rest for 5 minutes—don’t skip this part!
Top each chicken breast with a generous spoonful of the strawberry basil relish. Serve immediately and bask in the glory.
Notes
Don’t have red onion? Shallots are a mellow swap.
No basil on hand? Mint works in a pinch for a fresh twist.
Want a fancier feel? Drizzle with aged balsamic or add a few crumbles of goat cheese on top.
This is also great sliced over a salad or served cold the next day.
For meal prep: store the relish separately and add just before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilled or Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: American / Summer-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with relish
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 75mg