Barbecued Strawberry Chicken is a delightful and unexpected twist on classic barbecue flavors, combining the tangy sweetness of fresh strawberries with savory, smoky grilled chicken. The strawberry barbecue sauce is the star of this dish, offering a perfect blend of sweet, tart, and spicy notes. This vibrant and flavorful recipe is great for summer cookouts or any time you want to add a fruity flair to your grilling routine. It pairs wonderfully with fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or even a side of corn on the cob.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Make the strawberry barbecue sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, ketchup, balsamic vinegar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries break down and the sauce thickens, about 10-12 minutes. Remove from heat and blend until smooth if desired. Set aside.
- Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Baste with sauce: During the last 2-3 minutes of grilling, generously baste the chicken with the strawberry barbecue sauce, allowing the sauce to caramelize slightly on the grill.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired, and serve with extra strawberry barbecue sauce on the side.
Enjoy the unique blend of sweet and savory with this Barbecued Strawberry Chicken, perfect for outdoor grilling and summer gatherings!
