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Strawberry Balsamic Tarragon Chicken 🍓

Published: · Updated: by · 1 Comment

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Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this Strawberry Balsamic Tarragon Chicken recipe! This dish brings together juicy chicken, a sweet and tangy strawberry punch, and a dash of rich balsamic vinegar, all tied together with the aromatic charm of tarragon. It's a simple yet sophisticated meal that's sure to please!

Strawberry Balsamic Tarragon Chicken on a plate with a bowl of strawberries in the background
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Preparation and cooking overview

We love easy recipes over here at Cast Iron Keto, especially in the summer! This Strawberry Balsamic Tarragon Chicken is ready in just about 20 minutes and has only 3 ingredients if you don't count the pantry staples like oil and spices. How awesome is that?!

Chef's note

When it comes to mastering this dish, the key lies in the balance of flavors. The sweetness of the strawberries and the acidity of the balsamic vinegar should complement, not overpower, the chicken. Also, fresh tarragon really brings out the best in this recipe. Its unique flavor adds an aromatic depth that dried tarragon just can't match.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 Minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Recipe Makes 4 Servings

🍓 Ingredients for this strawberry balsamic tarragon chicken recipe

  • 3 tablespoons avocado oil
  • 1.5 lb chicken cutlets
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1.5 cups fresh strawberries halved
  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh tarragon
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Ingredient substitutions

  • Chicken cutlets: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts as a substitute. Cut them evenly to ensure even cooking and retain a similar texture to the original recipe. You can also use grilled or rotisserie chicken; make sure to use the breast part.
  • Avocado oil: Instead of avocado oil, you can use extra virgin olive oil or light olive oil, as it offers a mild, fruity taste that complements the dish. You also have the option to use grapeseed oil.
  • Balsamic vinegar: A mixture of red wine vinegar and keto-friendly sweeteners can be a tangy and slightly sweet substitute. Like red wine vinegar, you can combine equal parts of apple cider vinegar with a keto-friendly sweetener.
  • Tarragon:  You can use dried tarragon if you can't find fresh one. Just use one-third the amount of dried tarragon.

Additional ingredients

  • Toasted nuts: For extra crunch and fats, you can add toasted nuts such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts.
  • Cheese: For creamy, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the strawberries, you can add keto-friendly cheese.
Strawberry Balsamic Tarragon Chicken on a plate with a bowl of strawberries in the background

Cooking tools required

To make this strawberry balsamic tarragon chicken recipe, you'll need the following tools:

  • 10" or larger cast-iron skillet
  • Large plates
  • Spatula
  • Tongs
  • Knife and chopping board

Tools substitute options

  • Instead of cast iron skillet: If you don't have a cast-iron skillet, you can use a non-stick or stainless steel pan of similar size. However, be aware that cooking times and heat distribution might vary compared to a cast-iron skillet. You can also use a grilling machine to cook the cutlets.
  • Instead of a spatula: You can use a wooden spoon or a flat-edged cooking spoon to stir and scrape the strawberry mixture instead of a spatula.

How to make Strawberry Tarragon Chicken Recipe: step-by-step guide

Cooking methods

  • Pan-frying

Preparation steps

  1. Make sure to have all the required ingredients and tools for cooking. If any of the items are missing, you can buy them as they are readily available in stores.
  2. Mix salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and cinnamon in a small bowl.

Cooking instructions

  1. First, the seasoning mix on both sides of the chicken cutlets.
  2. Place a 10-inch or larger cast-iron skillet on the stove and turn the heat to medium-high. Add avocado oil to the skillet and let it heat up.
  3. When the oil is hot, carefully place the seasoned cutlets in the skillet. Cook them for about 4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and fully cooked.
  4. Once cooked, take the cutlets out of the skillet and put them on a plate. Set the plate aside for now.
  5. Now, put the strawberries and tarragon in the skillet. Add the balsamic vinegar, and use a spatula to loosen any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.
  6. Cook the mixture for about 5 minutes or until they are soft.
  7. Finally, spoon the strawberry mixture over the cooked cutlets and serve. 

Chef's pro tip

If you've got a little time on your hands, consider marinating the cutlets overnight. This extra step allows the seasonings to really seep into the meat, enhancing its juiciness and taste to a whole new level. However, let's not forget the golden rule of cooking cutlets - avoid overcooking at all costs. Keep a keen eye on the heat and the clock to ensure they're cooked just right. Happy cooking!

How to make it healthier

  • This recipe is already healthy as it has low-carb and moderate protein, but if you still want to make it healthier, add little to no oil and cook the cutlets.
  • To cut down extra calories, you can opt for low-calorie and keto-friendly balsamic vinegar, which are easily available in stores.

Time-saving tips

  • You can buy pre-washed and sliced strawberries for convenience.
  • You can let the cutlets thaw if you have kept them in the freezer.

What can I prepare ahead of time?

  • Prepare the seasoning in advance so that you instantly rub or sprinkle the seasonings on the cutlets.
  • Season the cutlets in advance and put them in the fridge. You can use them as soon as you're ready to cook.

Storage and reheating instructions

Storage tips

To store the leftovers, keep the chicken and the strawberry mix separate.

  • Chicken: Place the cooked cutlets in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Strawberry mix: We don't recommend storing the mix as freezing, and then reheating alters the taste and balance of the mix. It's best to have a fresh mix for flavorful tanginess.

Reheating instructions

  • Chicken: Remove it from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes. You can warm it in an oven that is preheated at 325°F. Be careful not to overheat, as this can dry out the cutlets.

Recipe wrap-up and conclusion

So, in wrapping things up, we just adore this recipe not only for its drool-worthy flavor but also for its simplicity. It's proof that you don't need a million ingredients or fancy techniques to create something truly delicious. Whether you're a long-time foodie or a newbie in the kitchen, this recipe is a fantastic way to shake things up and try something new.

Frequently asked questions

It is special because of the unique and complementary flavors they bring to the dish. The combination elevates the overall flavor profile of the meat, creating a delicious and harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and earthy flavors.

You can cut the chicken into slices, bite-sized pieces, or simply into halves. Whichever method you take to cut it, make sure they are even-sized pieces so that the flavors of the vinegar and tarragon get well-distributed.

It is not strictly necessary, but it can enhance the flavor and tenderness of the cutlets. If you choose to marinate, use spices and marinate it for at least 30 minutes to a few hours.

📖 Recipe

Strawberry Balsamic Tarragon Chicken on a plate with a bowl of strawberries in the background

Strawberry Balsamic Tarragon Chicken

Pan fried chicken cutlets get topped with a fresh strawberry balsamic tarragon sauce that's perfect for summer!
5 from 5 votes
Print Rate Pin Recipe
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: keto balsamic chicken
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 315kcal

Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons avocado oil
  • 1.5 lb chicken cutlets
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1.5 cups fresh strawberries halved
  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh tarragon
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Instructions

  • Season the chicken cutlets on each side with the salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and cinnamon.
  • Heat the avocado oil in a 10" or larger cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the cutlets to the pan and cook for about 4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through, transfer to a plate, and set aside.
  • Add the strawberries to the skillet along with the tarragon. Pour in the vinegar and scrape up any bits from the bottom of the pan. Cook the strawberry mixture for about 5 minutes until it is soft. Spoon the mixture over the chicken and serve.

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Strawberry Balsamic Tarragon Chicken
Amount Per Serving
Calories 315 Calories from Fat 135
% Daily Value*
Fat 15g23%
Saturated Fat 2g13%
Cholesterol 109mg36%
Sodium 491mg21%
Potassium 764mg22%
Carbohydrates 6g2%
Fiber 1g4%
Sugar 3g3%
Protein 37g74%
Vitamin A 125IU3%
Vitamin C 34mg41%
Calcium 37mg4%
Iron 1mg6%
*

Nutritional values are estimates only and do not include carbs from sugar alcohols.

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Kim says

    5 stars
    This was super good! Quick and easy to make. Love!

    Reply

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