Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts is a delightful dish that brings together the fresh flavors of basil and garlic. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, summer barbecues, or a simple weeknight dinner. The juicy, marinated chicken is grilled to perfection, creating a delicious meal that will impress your guests. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be able to whip up this flavorful chicken in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of garlic and fresh basil infuses the chicken with incredible flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it whole or sliced, making it perfect for any occasion.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this dish fits well into various healthy eating plans.
• Great for Meal Prep: Marinate the chicken ahead of time for quick grilling on busy nights.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the flavors of Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Mortar and pestle (optional)
• Gallon zip lock bag
• Probe thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good grill provides even heat distribution for perfectly cooked chicken.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the marinade ingredients smoothly.
• Mortar and pestle: Helps in mashing garlic into a paste, enhancing flavor extraction.
• Probe thermometer: Ensures the chicken is cooked to the right temperature without overcooking.

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 together the garlic, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, basil, and olive oil. If needed, 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 generously on both sides of each chicken breast while ensuring that the skins remain intact.

Step 3: Refrigerate to Marinate

Place the coated chicken breasts in a gallon zip lock bag. Seal it tightly and refrigerate for four hours up to twelve hours to allow flavors to develop.

Step 4: Prepare for Grilling

When you’re ready to grill, remove the chicken from the bag. Wipe off excess marinade from just the skin side. Brush olive oil on this side and sprinkle with salt and pepper for extra flavor.

Step 5: Grill with Care

Heat your grill to medium fire. Place the chicken skin side down on the grill for about 8-10 minutes. Turn each piece 90 degrees halfway through grilling to create appealing cross hatch marks.

Step 6: Finish Cooking on Cool Side

After crisping up the skin, flip each piece over and move them to a cooler section of your grill. Cover with a lid and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes while maintaining an internal temperature around 425 degrees F.

Step 7: Check Internal Temperature

Use a probe thermometer to ensure that each piece reaches an internal temperature of 155 degrees F before removing them from heat.

Step 8: Rest before Serving

Cover the grilled chicken loosely with foil and let it rest for about five minutes. This resting period allows internal temperatures to rise above 160 degrees F.

Step 9: Serve Warm

Slice or serve whole alongside your favorite sides like our Grilled Balsamic Peaches or fresh salads. Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts!

How to Serve Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts are versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you prefer a casual family dinner or an elegant gathering, these chicken breasts will impress your guests. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

With Fresh Salads

• Caprese Salad – Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a refreshing side.
• Greek Salad – Combine cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese for a tangy complement.
• Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing pairs well with the chicken.

On a Bed of Rice

• Herbed Rice Pilaf – Lightly seasoned rice enhances the chicken’s flavors.
• Lemon Rice – A zesty lemon-infused rice makes for a bright contrast.
• Coconut Rice – Sweet coconut rice adds a tropical twist to your meal.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Zucchini and Bell Peppers – Grilled veggies offer color and nutrition alongside the chicken.
• Asparagus – Tender asparagus provides a crunchy texture that complements the dish well.

How to Perfect Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

To achieve the best flavor and texture from your Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts, follow these simple tips for perfection.

• Marinate Longer – Allowing the chicken to marinate for up to 12 hours enhances flavor penetration.
• Preheat Your Grill – Ensure your grill is hot enough to create a nice sear on the skin.
• Use a Probe Thermometer – Monitoring internal temperature ensures juicy, perfectly cooked chicken.
• Baste While Cooking – Basting with olive oil keeps the skin moist and flavorful during grilling.
• Rest Before Serving – Letting the chicken rest helps retain juices for maximum tenderness.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Choosing the right side dishes elevates your meal experience with Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts. Here are some delicious options that pair beautifully with this dish.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy sprouts provide a hearty crunch that balances the meal.
3. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds brightness and complements grilled flavors perfectly.
4. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with vegetables brings texture and nutrition to the plate.
5. Pasta Primavera – Tossed with seasonal veggies, this pasta dish offers freshness alongside the chicken.
6. Grilled Corn Salad – Combining grilled corn with herbs creates a sweet and savory mix.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks encounter challenges when making Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring the marinating time – Skipping the marinating step or not allowing enough time can lead to bland chicken. Aim for at least four hours, but overnight is even better for enhanced flavor.
• Using too much oil – Adding excessive oil can result in greasy chicken. Use just enough to coat the chicken lightly, as instructed in the recipe.
• Not checking the internal temperature – Undercooking or overcooking can ruin your meal. Always use a probe thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 155 degrees F for perfect doneness.
• Neglecting the skin preparation – Forgetting to wipe off excess marinade from the skin can cause burning during grilling. Make sure to clean the skin side before grilling for a crisp texture.
• Grilling on high heat without monitoring – Cooking on too high heat without adjusting can lead to burnt outsides and raw insides. Keep an eye on your grill temperature and adjust burners as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

• Place cooled chicken breasts in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely. Heat in 30-second intervals until thoroughly heated, being careful not to dry it out.
• Stovetop – In a skillet over medium heat, add a small amount of oil or broth. Heat the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts more flavorful?

You can enhance the flavor by adding additional herbs such as thyme or oregano, or by marinating longer than suggested.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh in Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts?

While fresh basil offers a vibrant flavor, you can use dried basil in a pinch. Use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

What sides pair well with Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts?

This dish pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, salads, or our suggested Grilled Balsamic Peaches for a complete meal.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts keep well and can be easily used in salads or wraps throughout the week.

Can I grill this chicken indoors?

Yes, if you have a stovetop grill pan, you can replicate outdoor grilling indoors while still achieving great flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts offer a delightful blend of flavors that elevate any meal. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or spices. Whether served whole or sliced, it’s sure to impress family and guests alike—give it a try!