Description
Grilled Chicken with Strawberry Salsa features juicy, smoky grilled chicken breasts paired with a vibrant, fresh strawberry salsa made from lime, basil, red onion, and jalapeño. This sweet and savory dish is perfect for spring and summer meals, offering a healthy, flavorful, and colorful dinner option that combines classic grilling with fresh fruit salsa.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Strawberry Salsa:
- 2 cups strawberries, hulled and finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, coating them thoroughly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Make the Strawberry Salsa: Meanwhile, combine the diced strawberries, finely diced red onion, chopped jalapeño, fresh basil, cilantro, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl. Gently toss the ingredients together and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the chicken is golden and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the grilled chicken from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy meat.
- Serve: Spoon the chilled strawberry salsa over the grilled chicken breasts and serve immediately. Optionally, garnish with extra lime wedges for added brightness.
Notes
- Pound thicker chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Prepare strawberry salsa shortly before serving to maintain its fresh texture and vibrant flavors.
- Add diced avocado to the salsa for extra creaminess and richness.
- Mango or peaches can be used as a substitute for some or all of the strawberries in the salsa.
- Store any leftover grilled chicken in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, but keep the salsa separate to preserve freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course, Grilling, Summer Recipes
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American, Mexican-Inspired
