In a medium sauce pan, slightly mash the strawberries to release some of the juices. Stir in the 1/2 cup of sugar and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium.
1 lb of chopped strawberries, 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Constantly stirring, continue to cook until the strawberries soften. Mash again thoroughly and cook until the sauce thickens and reduces to about 1 & 1/4 to 1 & 1/2 cups. Let cool to room temperature.
To make the quick bread
Preheat oven to 325F and grease a 9x5" pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda and salt.
1 & 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup sugar, 1 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt
Add the chocolate chips.
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
In another bowl, mix together the eggs and strawberry preserve.
2 large eggs, 1 & 1/2 cups strawberry preserve
Mix in the oil, milk and vanilla. Slowly add to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
1/2 cup vegetable oil, 1/4 cup milk, 1 tsp vanilla extract
Bake for 60-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.