Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts is a delightful dish that combines succulent chicken with the aromatic flavors of garlic and fresh basil. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. The best part? It’s simple to prepare and delivers an incredible taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic and basil creates a fragrant marinade that infuses the chicken with deliciousness.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it whole or sliced, making it great for both casual family meals and elegant dinner parties.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this chicken dish fits well into various dietary plans.
• Perfect Grilling Results: The technique ensures crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy and tender.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mortar and pestle
• Gallon zip lock bag
• Grill (gas or charcoal)
• Probe thermometer
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Mortar and pestle: Ideal for mashing garlic into a paste, ensuring a well-blended marinade.
• Probe thermometer: Helps achieve perfect doneness without guessing, ensuring food safety.
• Basting brush: Essential for applying oil evenly to the chicken skin for crispiness.

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

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. You might find using a mortar and pestle effective. Adding salt to the garlic helps create a paste.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Smear the mixture on both sides of the chicken breasts while keeping the skins intact. Place them in a gallon zip lock bag to marinate in the refrigerator for four to twelve hours.

Step 3: Prepare for Grilling

When ready to grill, remove the chicken from the bag. Wipe just the skin side free of marinade. Brush olive oil on the skin side and sprinkle salt and pepper lightly.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Over medium heat, place chicken skin side down. Cook for about 8-10 minutes; turn 90 degrees halfway through to create crosshatch marks.

Step 5: Finish Cooking

Once crisp, flip each piece over and move them to a cooler part of your grill. Cover with a lid and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes at an internal temperature of around 425 degrees F.

Step 6: Check Doneness

Remove chicken when it reaches an internal temperature of 155 degrees F using a probe thermometer. Allow it to rest loosely covered with foil for five minutes before serving.

Step 7: Serve

Serve either whole or sliced alongside our delicious Grilled Balsamic Peaches for an unforgettable meal!

How to Serve Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts are not only flavorful but also versatile. They can be served in various ways to delight your family and guests. Here are some ideas for serving this delicious dish.

Serve with Fresh Salads

• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a refreshing complement.
• Greek Salad: A mix of cucumbers, olives, feta cheese, and red onion adds a tangy touch.
• Arugula Salad: Peppery arugula topped with shaved Parmesan and lemon vinaigrette enhances the chicken’s flavors.

Pair with Grains

• Quinoa: This nutty grain provides a great texture and absorbs the chicken’s marinade flavors well.
• Brown Rice: A hearty side that balances the richness of the chicken while adding fiber.
• Couscous: Fluffy couscous can be dressed with olive oil and herbs for a light side dish.

Garnish & Sauces

• Pesto Drizzle: A drizzle of fresh basil pesto can elevate the presentation and flavor.
• Lemon Wedges: Squeezing fresh lemon juice over the chicken adds brightness to each bite.

How to Perfect Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Perfecting your Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts is easier than you think. Follow these tips for juicy and flavorful results.

• Marinate Longer: Letting your chicken marinate for 8-12 hours will deepen the flavors significantly.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Check for doneness at 155 degrees F to ensure it stays juicy without being undercooked.
• Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is hot enough before placing the chicken on it to achieve that perfect sear.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after grilling helps retain its juices, making every bite tender.
• Adjust Heat When Cooking: Use direct heat initially then move to a cooler side of the grill to finish cooking without burning.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delightful options that pair beautifully with Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts.

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies tossed in olive oil and herbs make for a colorful and nutritious side.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the chicken’s bold flavors perfectly.
3. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus drizzled with lemon elevates any grilled meal.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with rice, beans, or quinoa make a hearty addition.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter is a classic summer side that everyone loves.
6. Pasta Primavera: Light pasta mixed with fresh vegetables offers a satisfying yet light option alongside chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts, a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Avoid these pitfalls for a delicious meal.

• Over-marinating the chicken: While marinating adds flavor, too long can make chicken mushy. Stick to the recommended 4 to 12 hours for best results.
• Skipping the skin preparation: Failing to wipe off excess marinade from the skin side can lead to burnt bits during grilling. Always clean the skin before grilling for a crispy finish.
• Not checking the internal temperature: Cooking chicken without checking its internal temperature can result in undercooked or overcooked meat. Use a probe thermometer to ensure it reaches 155 degrees F.
• Grilling at an incorrect temperature: Too high of heat can char the outside before cooking through. Maintain a grill temperature of around 425 degrees F for even cooking.
• Neglecting resting time: Cutting into grilled chicken too soon allows juices to escape, making it dry. Let your chicken rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing or serving.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled chicken breasts in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• They can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°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 with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of broth or water and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Dried basil can be used, but fresh basil offers better flavor and aroma. If using dried, reduce the amount since it’s more concentrated.

How do I know when Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts are done?

Use a probe thermometer to check if the internal temperature has reached 155 degrees F. This ensures that the chicken is safely cooked.

Can I prepare Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken breasts ahead of time and grill them just before serving for maximum freshness.

What sides pair well with Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts?

This dish goes wonderfully with grilled vegetables, pasta salad, or our Grilled Balsamic Peaches for a delightful meal.

Can I grill this chicken on an indoor grill?

Absolutely! An indoor grill works well; just ensure you monitor the temperature closely as cooking times may vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts are not only flavorful but also versatile enough to suit any occasion. This recipe allows customization by adding different herbs or spices based on your preference. Whether served whole or sliced, this dish is sure to impress family and guests alike—give it a try!

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: Lucille
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts are a mouthwatering dish that brings together juicy chicken breasts and the vibrant flavors of fresh basil and garlic. Perfect for summer barbecues or quick family dinners, this recipe is not only simple to prepare but also delivers an explosion of flavor that will keep everyone coming back for more. With its crispy skin and tender meat, this chicken dish is a healthy choice packed with protein and low in carbs, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. Impress your guests with minimal effort while enjoying a delightful meal that tastes gourmet yet is effortless to create.

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Ingredients

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• 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

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix garlic, salt, basil, and olive oil to create the marinade.
2. Rub the marinade on both sides of the chicken breasts and place them in a zip lock bag to marinate in the refrigerator for 4–12 hours.
3. Preheat the grill to medium heat. Remove the chicken from the bag and wipe excess marinade off the skin side.
4. Brush olive oil on the skin side and sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper.
5. Grill skin-side down for about 8–10 minutes, turning halfway through for grill marks.
6. Flip the chicken over and move it to a cooler part of the grill, covering it with a lid to cook for another 8–10 minutes until an internal temperature of 155 degrees F is reached.
7. Let rest for five minutes before serving whole or sliced.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (150g)
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 480 mg
• Fat: 17 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 2 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 32 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg