Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a culinary masterpiece that will transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary gastronomic experience! This Strawberry Balsamic Tarragon Chicken is not just a recipe – it's a symphony of flavors that combines the sweetness of ripe strawberries, the tangy richness of balsamic vinegar, and the delicate herbaceous notes of fresh tarragon. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or simply treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and leave everyone craving more.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 chicken breasts, 1 cup of sliced strawberries, 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons of fresh tarragon (chopped), 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken later.
- Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to ensure that the chicken will sear nicely.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet and sear them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. This step locks in the flavors and adds a nice texture to the chicken.
- While the chicken is searing, prepare the strawberry balsamic sauce. In a small bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, balsamic vinegar, and chopped tarragon. Stir gently to mix the ingredients well.
- Once the chicken is seared, remove the skillet from the heat. Pour the strawberry balsamic mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring that each piece is well coated.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- After baking, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender and flavorful.
- Serve the chicken breasts topped with the strawberry balsamic sauce. You can garnish with additional fresh tarragon if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to guarantee food safety while maintaining maximum juiciness.
- Ingredient Quality Matters: Use fresh, ripe strawberries and high-quality balsamic vinegar for the most vibrant flavor profile.
- Searing Technique: Pat the chicken dry before searing to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust that locks in moisture and flavor.
- Resting Period: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after cooking to redistribute the juices, ensuring each bite is tender and succulent.
- Garnish Wisely: Fresh tarragon can be used as a final garnish to boost the herb's aromatic qualities and add a pop of color to the dish.
- Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the balsamic and strawberry mixture in the pan for a few extra minutes before pouring over the chicken.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with light sides like roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a crisp green salad to complement the rich flavors of the chicken.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 253kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 31g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 85mg
