Balsamic Chicken Strawberry Basil Relish Recipe

If you are craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, look no further than the Balsamic Chicken Strawberry Basil Relish. This delightful recipe combines tender, juicy chicken marinated in balsamic vinegar with a bright and refreshing relish made from sweet strawberries, aromatic basil, and a touch of red onion. Each bite offers a perfect balance of savory and sweet, with a hint of tanginess that makes this dish irresistibly memorable. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner, yet elegant enough to impress guests at your next gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Balsamic Chicken Strawberry Basil Relish lies in its straightforward yet essential ingredients. Each item contributes uniquely, creating a dish rich in texture, taste, and color without overwhelming complexity.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: A lean protein base that soaks up the marinade perfectly for juicy results.
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: Adds a complex sweet and tangy flavor that deepens during cooking.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used in the marinade, it helps tenderize the chicken and enhances moisture.
• 1 garlic clove, minced: Gives a subtle, earthy aroma that complements the balsamic beautifully.
• Salt, to taste: Essential for balancing all the flavors and seasoning the chicken well.
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Adds a mild heat and depth to the marinade.
• 225 grams fresh strawberries, diced: The star of the relish, offering juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
• 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped: Provides a gentle sharpness and crunch to contrast the sweet strawberries.
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped: Infuses herbal freshness that brightens the entire dish.
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar: Incorporated into the relish, it ties the flavors together with a touch of acidity.
• 0.5 teaspoon honey (optional): Balances the tartness of the vinegar and enhances the strawberries’ sweetness.
• Pinch of salt: Helps elevate the flavors in the strawberry basil relish without overpowering.

How to Make Balsamic Chicken Strawberry Basil Relish

Step 1: Prepare Marinade

Begin by creating a simple yet flavorful marinade. In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until everything is smoothly combined. This marinade is key to tenderizing the chicken and infusing it with rich, tangy notes.

Step 2: Marinate Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Make sure each piece is evenly coated, as this ensures maximum flavor absorption. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, though marinating for up to 2 hours allows the flavors to deepen even more. This step is what takes your chicken from ordinary to extraordinary.

Step 3: Make Strawberry Basil Relish

While the chicken marinates, prepare the titular strawberry basil relish that makes this dish shine. Gently combine diced strawberries, finely chopped red onion, chopped fresh basil, balsamic vinegar, honey if you’re using it, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Stir lightly to keep the strawberries slightly intact and the mixture vibrant. Refrigerate the relish until you’re ready to serve so the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 4: Cook Chicken

Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat to ensure a good sear. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and place them on the hot surface. Grill or sear for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side, aiming for a well-browned exterior and a juicy, fully cooked interior. The balsamic marinade caramelizes slightly, adding wonderful depth to the chicken’s flavor.

Step 5: Rest and Slice

Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes. Resting is essential—it allows the juices to redistribute so every slice is moist and tender. After resting, slice the chicken across the grain to maximize tenderness and create inviting portions ready for plating.

Step 6: Serve with Strawberry Basil Relish

Finally, plate the sliced chicken breasts and generously spoon the strawberry basil relish over the top. The colorful topping not only elevates the presentation but also provides a delicious contrast of flavors and textures that define the Balsamic Chicken Strawberry Basil Relish experience. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve Balsamic Chicken Strawberry Basil Relish

Garnishes

To make your dish look as fantastic as it tastes, consider garnishing with a few fresh basil leaves tucked gracefully around the plate or a small drizzle of balsamic reduction for an added touch of elegance and flavor intensity. A light sprinkle of cracked black pepper can add just the right finishing touch.

Side Dishes

The sweet and tangy profile of the relish pairs beautifully with simple side dishes like garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a crisp green salad. For something lighter, serve alongside quinoa or couscous tossed with lemon zest and olive oil to complement the fresh notes of the basil and strawberries.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your presentation up a notch by serving the chicken on a bed of arugula or baby spinach, letting the peppery greens balance the dish’s sweetness. For entertaining, consider serving the chicken sliced as finger food on a platter with the relish spooned in small bowls for guests to add at will. This recipe’s flair allows your creativity to shine in how you share it.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store the cooked chicken and strawberry basil relish separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Keeping the relish separate prevents it from soaking into the chicken and losing its refreshing texture. Properly stored, both components will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing

While the chicken can be frozen after cooking, it’s best to avoid freezing the strawberry basil relish, as fresh strawberries and basil lose their texture when thawed. Freeze the chicken in individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in freezer bags, and use within 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

When reheating, gently warm the chicken in a skillet or oven to preserve moisture. Avoid the microwave as it risks drying out the meat. Add the strawberry basil relish fresh right before serving to enjoy the full vibrant flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for the relish?

Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor in the relish, but if frozen is all you have, thaw thoroughly and drain excess liquid to prevent the relish from becoming too watery.

Is this recipe suitable for grilling outdoors?

Absolutely! The marinade is perfect for grilling, and the chicken will develop wonderful charred flavors that complement the strawberry basil relish beautifully.

Can I prepare the strawberry basil relish ahead of time?

You can prepare the relish a few hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just stir well before serving to refresh the flavors and juices.

What can I use instead of balsamic vinegar?

If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, a mix of red wine vinegar and a little honey or maple syrup can mimic the sweet and tangy profile, but balsamic is best for authenticity.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, cut into the thickest part to ensure there is no pink meat remaining and the juices run clear.

Final Thoughts

This Balsamic Chicken Strawberry Basil Relish recipe is truly a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors coming together in a surprisingly effortless way. It makes weekday meals feel special and dinner parties more impressive, all while using simple ingredients you’ll love working with. Give it a try and discover just how delightful the combination of sweet strawberries, fragrant basil, and tangy balsamic vinegar can be with perfectly cooked chicken. Your taste buds will thank you!

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