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Have you ever found yourself stuck in a cooking rut, making the same old chicken dishes week after week? I know I have! One day, while staring at a container of perfectly ripe strawberries, it hit me: why not try something completely unexpected? That’s how this Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Souvlaki was born. It's a flavor explosion that will redefine your perception of what chicken can be. Trust me, this dish is a game-changer!
Imagine juicy, tender chicken cubes infused with the sweetness of ripe strawberries and the tangy depth of balsamic vinegar. The addition of garlic, oregano, and a hint of brown sugar creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Grilled to perfection, each bite is a delightful combination of savory and sweet, making it an unforgettable culinary experience.
Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, looking for a quick weeknight dinner, or simply want to impress your taste buds, this recipe is your go-to solution. It’s easy to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it's a fantastic way to use up those extra strawberries you might have lying around. So, let’s dive in and discover how to make this extraordinary dish!
Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Souvlaki: a surprisingly delicious blend of sweet and savory, featuring grilled chicken marinated in a tangy strawberry balsamic sauce. Perfect for a summer BBQ or a quick weeknight dinner!
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield:4 servings
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
First, prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. You want them to be uniform in size so they cook evenly. Place the cubed chicken into a large mixing bowl.
Next, make the marinade: In a smaller bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free), minced garlic, chopped strawberries, brown sugar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. The aroma at this point is just heavenly!
Pour the marinade over the chicken: Ensure that all the chicken pieces are well coated with the strawberry balsamic marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful and tender the chicken will be. I like to marinate mine overnight if I can. *chef's kiss*
Prepare the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you're using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning. Alternatively, use metal skewers.
Assemble the souvlaki: Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers. Be careful not to overcrowd them; leave a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
Grill the souvlaki: Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Be sure to flip the skewers occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. I use a meat thermometer to make sure the meat is cooked.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve the Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Souvlaki hot off the grill. It's delightful on its own or paired with a fresh salad, rice pilaf, or grilled vegetables. Enjoy!
📝 Notes
For an extra touch of flavor, try grilling the souvlaki over charcoal.
Serve with a side of quinoa or couscous for a complete meal.