Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts is a delightful dish that brings together the fresh taste of basil and the rich flavor of garlic. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, summer barbecues, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. The combination of marinated chicken and grilling creates a savory meal that is both juicy and aromatic, making it a standout choice for any culinary enthusiast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Only a few items are needed to create this delicious dish, making it easy to prepare.
• Flavorful Marinade: The blend of garlic and basil infuses the chicken with rich flavors that elevate the meal.
• Versatile Cooking: Perfect for grilling outdoors or cooking on an indoor grill pan, adaptable to any setting.
• Quick Prep Time: With just 15 minutes of prep work, you can have a gourmet meal ready in no time.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in carbs, it’s an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters.

Tools and Preparation

Proper tools make cooking easier and more enjoyable. With the right equipment, preparing Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts becomes a breeze.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Gallon zip lock bag
• Mortar and pestle (optional)
• Probe thermometer
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides the ideal heat source for achieving that perfect grilled flavor and crisp skin.
• Gallon zip lock bag: Ensures efficient marinating by keeping all ingredients well-coated and contained.
• Probe thermometer: Helps monitor internal chicken temperature for perfectly cooked meat every time.

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, basil, and olive oil. If needed, add more oil. Using a mortar and pestle works best here; the salt will help mash the garlic into a paste. Add basil and oil afterward.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Smear the marinade on both sides of each chicken breast while keeping the skins intact. Place chicken breasts into a gallon zip lock bag to marinate in the refrigerator for four hours or up to twelve hours.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

When ready to grill, take the chicken out of the bag. Wipe off excess marinade from just the skin side. Brush olive oil on this side and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Wiping helps brown the skin without burning any basil pieces.

Step 4: Grill Skin Side Down

Over medium heat, place chicken skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning them 90 degrees halfway through to achieve crosshatch marks.

Step 5: Flip and Cook Through

Once the skin is crispy, flip each piece over. Move them to a cooler part of the grill. Cover with a lid and cook for another 8-10 minutes while maintaining an internal temperature of around 425 degrees F by adjusting burners as needed.

Step 6: Check Internal Temperature

Remove chicken from grill when it reaches an internal temperature of 155 degrees F using a probe thermometer.

Step 7: Rest Before Serving

Cover loosely with foil and let rest for about five minutes before serving. The internal temperature will rise above 160 degrees F during this time.

Step 8: Serve Up!

Serve your grilled chicken whole or sliced alongside our Grilled Balsamic Peaches for an impressive meal your family or guests will love!

How to Serve Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts are not only delicious but also versatile. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will impress your family and guests.

With Fresh Salad

• Caprese Salad: Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a refreshing dish.
• Caesar Salad: Toss romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese for a classic option.

Accompanied by Sauces

• Balsamic Reduction: Drizzle a sweet balsamic reduction over the chicken for added flavor.
• Garlic Aioli: Serve with homemade garlic aioli for a creamy dipping experience.

On a Bed of Grains

• Quinoa Pilaf: Serve the chicken on fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs and vegetables for a nutritious meal.
• Rice Blend: A blend of brown rice and wild rice complements the flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Perfecting Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts is all about technique and attention to detail. With these tips, you can enhance your grilling game.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for up to 12 hours deepens the flavor.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: This ensures the chicken is cooked to perfection without drying out.
• Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill helps achieve that lovely crispy skin while locking in moisture.
• Rest After Cooking: Letting the chicken rest before slicing allows juices to redistribute for moist meat.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Pairing side dishes with Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables in olive oil and grill them alongside your chicken for complementary flavors.
2. Herb Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side that balances out the meal.
3. Pasta Primavera: A light pasta dish tossed with fresh vegetables pairs well with the richness of the grilled chicken.
4. Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw adds texture and contrasts nicely with the tender chicken.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Filled with rice, beans, and spices, these peppers make an eye-catching addition to your plate.
6. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is always a favorite and perfect for soaking up any juices from the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks can encounter pitfalls when making Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts. Here are some common mistakes and tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Ignoring marination time: Marinating the chicken for at least four hours is crucial. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, enhancing its taste significantly.
• Not preparing the grill properly: Ensure your grill is preheated and has a medium fire before placing the chicken on it. This helps achieve that perfect crispy skin.
• Skipping temperature checks: Using a probe thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 155 degrees F is essential. This ensures your chicken is safe to eat without being overcooked.
• Neglecting resting time: Allowing the chicken to rest after grilling is important. This lets the juices redistribute, making each bite juicy and flavorful.
• Using too much marinade on the skin side: Wiping off excess marinade from the skin side before grilling helps achieve a beautifully browned skin without burnt basil bits.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store grilled chicken in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers or wrap tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh.

Freezing Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

• Duration: You can freeze grilled chicken for up to 3 months.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat chicken for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and warm chicken for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts?

Marinate the chicken for at least four hours, but you can extend it up to twelve hours for more flavor.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh in this recipe?

While fresh basil gives a vibrant flavor, you can use dried basil. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated; use about one-third of what you would use if fresh.

What can I serve with Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts?

This dish pairs wonderfully with sides like grilled vegetables, salads, or even our delicious Grilled Balsamic Peaches for dessert.

How do I know when my chicken is done cooking?

Use a probe thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 155 degrees F. It will continue cooking slightly while resting.

Can I use this recipe with other cuts of chicken?

Yes! You can try thighs or drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time according to the size and cut of meat used.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts offer a delightful combination of flavors that are sure to impress family and friends alike. This versatile recipe allows for customization with different herbs or marinades based on your taste preferences. Try it out today, and enjoy a delicious meal that’s easy to prepare!