Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts is a delightful dish that showcases the perfect harmony of garlic, basil, and juicy chicken. This recipe is ideal for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or preparing a cozy family dinner. The fresh ingredients come together to create a flavor-packed meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for entertaining guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Aromatic: The combination of basil and garlic infuses the chicken with delicious flavors that tantalize your taste buds.
• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time, this dish is straightforward and quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flexible Cooking Method: Grill it outdoors or use an indoor grill pan; this recipe adapts well to your cooking setup.
• Great for Meal Prep: Marinate in advance and cook when you’re ready for a hassle-free meal at any time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve whole or sliced with sides like grilled vegetables or salads for a complete meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill (outdoor or indoor)
• Gallon zip lock bag
• Mortar and pestle (or cutting board and knife)
• Probe thermometer
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that smoky flavor and crispy skin on the chicken.
• Gallon zip lock bag: Perfect for marinating the chicken evenly without taking up too much space in the fridge.
• Probe thermometer: Ensures your chicken reaches the perfect internal temperature without guesswork.

Ingredients

Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken combines a few simple ingredients into one fantastic, flavorful meal!

For the Chicken

• 4 large boneless skin-on chicken breast halves (10-12 ounces each)
• 3 tablespoons finely minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ cup chopped fresh basil
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• Olive oil, salt and freshly ground black pepper for skin

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, mix garlic, 1 teaspoon of salt, chopped basil, and olive oil. If necessary, add more oil until you achieve a paste-like consistency. Using a mortar and pestle can help mash the garlic effectively.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Smear the marinade mixture on both sides of the chicken breasts while keeping the skins intact. Place the coated chicken in a gallon zip lock bag and refrigerate for at least four hours or up to twelve hours to let the flavors penetrate.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

When ready to grill, preheat your grill over medium heat. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that desired crispiness on the skin.

Step 4: Prepare Chicken for Grilling

Remove the chicken from the marinade. Wipe just the skin side clean to avoid burnt pieces of basil during grilling. Brush olive oil on the skin side and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Grill Skin Side Down

Place chicken skin side down on the grill. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, rotating 90 degrees halfway through to create lovely crosshatch marks.

Step 6: Flip & Finish Cooking

Once crispy, flip each piece over and move them to a cooler part of the grill. Cover with the lid and cook for another 8-10 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 155 degrees F.

Step 7: Rest Before Serving

Remove from heat once done. Cover loosely with foil and let it rest for about five minutes before serving. The residual heat will raise its temperature above 160 degrees F.

Step 8: Serve

Slice or serve whole alongside our Grilled Balsamic Peaches or your choice of sides. Enjoy this delicious Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts with family or friends!

How to Serve Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts are not only flavorful, but they are also versatile when it comes to serving ideas. You can present them in various ways to impress your family and guests alike.

With Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: Toss fresh greens with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Caprese Salad: Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a classic Italian pairing.

On a Sandwich

• Grilled Chicken Sandwich: Use crusty bread or a brioche bun with lettuce and tomato for a hearty meal.
• Pesto Chicken Wrap: Spread pesto on a tortilla, add sliced chicken, spinach, and roll it up for a quick lunch.

With Dips

• Garlic Aioli: Serve with homemade garlic aioli for an extra flavor boost.
• Spicy Sriracha Sauce: Drizzle over the chicken for those who like a bit of heat.

As Part of a Platter

• Charcuterie Board: Include sliced chicken alongside cheeses, olives, and nuts for an elegant appetizer.
• BBQ Feast: Serve as part of a barbecue spread, paired with ribs and corn on the cob.

How to Perfect Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

To achieve the best results with your Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts, follow these expert tips.

• Bold Marinade: Ensure your marinade is well-balanced; adjust garlic and basil to taste for maximum flavor impact.
• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor penetration, marinate the chicken breasts overnight if time allows.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Grill in batches if necessary; overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Check internal temperatures accurately to avoid undercooking or drying out the chicken.
• Let It Rest: Allowing chicken to rest after grilling helps retain juices and improve tenderness.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like oregano or thyme to enhance the flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Complement your Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts with delicious sides that elevate your meal. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side dish.
2. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus brings freshness and crunch to your plate.
3. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad with vegetables offers great texture and flavor.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted seasonal vegetables add color and nutrition.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa pilaf pairs beautifully with grilled flavors while being health-conscious.
6. Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Sweet and tangy Brussels sprouts make an excellent accompaniment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the marination: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can result in bland meat. Marinate for at least four hours to let the flavors penetrate deeply.
• Neglecting skin preparation: Failing to wipe the skin side of the chicken before grilling may lead to burnt basil pieces. Always brush off excess marinade for a perfect crispy skin.
• Inconsistent grill temperature: Cooking at varying temperatures will affect doneness. Aim for a steady internal grill temperature of 425 degrees F. for even cooking.
• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can let juices escape. Always let your chicken rest for at least five minutes to maintain moisture.
• Not using a thermometer: Relying on cooking time alone can lead to undercooked or overcooked chicken. Use a probe thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 155 degrees F.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store remaining grilled chicken in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second increments until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of olive oil. Cook each piece for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless chicken breasts for Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts, but remember that cooking times may vary since they may cook faster than bone-in varieties.

What is the best way to serve Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts?

These flavorful chicken breasts are delicious served whole or sliced alongside grilled vegetables or our Grilled Balsamic Peaches for a delightful meal.

How do I know when my grilled chicken is done?

The best way is to check the internal temperature with a probe thermometer; it should reach 155 degrees F before resting.

Can I customize the marinade for Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other herbs or spices like oregano or red pepper flakes for extra flavor that suits your taste.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts are not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe allows room for customization based on your preferences. Try it out and impress your family or guests with this delicious dish!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts are the perfect combination of juicy chicken, aromatic garlic, and vibrant basil. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, ideal for everything from summer barbecues to cozy family dinners. With its simple preparation and impressive flavor profile, it’s a go-to recipe for any occasion. The succulent marinated chicken is grilled to perfection, making it a delicious centerpiece that pairs beautifully with fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or hearty sides. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or entertaining guests, this grilled chicken recipe will elevate your dining experience.

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Ingredients

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• 4 large boneless skin-on chicken breast halves (10–12 ounces each)
• 3 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ cup chopped fresh basil
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• Olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper for skin
• Optional garnish: Fresh parsley

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine garlic, salt, basil, and olive oil to form a paste.
2. Coat both sides of the chicken breasts with the marinade and refrigerate in a zip lock bag for 4 to 12 hours.
3. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and pat the skin side clean; brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill skin-side down for 8-10 minutes; rotate halfway through for crosshatch marks.
6. Flip the chicken and move to a cooler area of the grill; cover and cook until internal temperature reaches 155°F (about another 8-10 minutes).
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving whole.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast half (approximately 170g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 640mg
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 100mg