Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts is a delightful dish that brings together juicy chicken and 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 combination of simple ingredients makes it not only easy to prepare but also incredibly flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: The marinade comes together in just minutes, allowing you to focus on enjoying your meal.
• Bursting with Flavor: Fresh garlic and basil infuse the chicken with a delicious taste that will leave everyone wanting more.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve the chicken whole or sliced; it pairs beautifully with various sides, from salads to grilled vegetables.
• Healthy Option: With lean protein and fresh ingredients, this dish fits well into many healthy eating plans.
• Perfect for Grilling: Ideal for outdoor cooking, this recipe showcases your grill skills while delivering juicy results.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools. These will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good grill is essential for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor in your dishes.
• Gallon zip lock bag: This makes marinating easy by allowing the chicken to absorb all those wonderful flavors effectively.
• Mortar and pestle: Perfect for creating a smooth marinade; it helps combine garlic, salt, basil, and oil seamlessly.

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 kosher salt, chopped basil, and olive oil. If necessary, add extra oil to achieve a paste-like consistency. A mortar and pestle works best for mashing garlic into a paste.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Smear the marinade on both sides of each chicken breast while keeping the skin intact. Place the seasoned breasts in a gallon zip lock bag. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least four hours or up to 12 hours to allow flavors to develop.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill over medium heat. Remove chicken from the bag and wipe just the skin side free of excess marinade. Brush olive oil on the skin side and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Place chicken skin side down on the grill. Cook for about 8-10 minutes while turning them 90 degrees halfway through to create cross hatch marks. Once crisped up nicely, flip each piece over.

Step 5: Finish Cooking

Move the chicken to a cooler side of the grill. Cover it with the lid and cook for another 8-10 minutes until an internal temperature of 155 degrees F is reached using a probe thermometer.

Step 6: Rest Before Serving

Remove chicken from grill when done. Cover loosely with foil and let it rest for about five minutes before serving. The internal temperature will continue to rise above 160 degrees F during this time.

Step 7: Serve

Slice or serve whole alongside our 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. Here are some delightful ways to serve this dish, ensuring your meal is both satisfying and appealing.

With Fresh Salads

• Caprese Salad: Pair the chicken with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil for a refreshing taste.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing complements the garlic flavor in the chicken beautifully.

On a Bed of Rice

• Herbed Rice: Serve over jasmine or basmati rice infused with herbs for a fragrant base.
• Coconut Rice: Add a tropical twist with coconut milk in your rice for extra flavor.

Accompanied by Grilled Vegetables

• Zucchini and Bell Peppers: Grilling brings out their natural sweetness, making them perfect alongside the chicken.
• Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus enhances the meal’s freshness.

With Delicious Sauces

• Balsamic Reduction: Drizzle this over the chicken for a tangy contrast that elevates the dish.
• Pesto Sauce: Adds an herbaceous kick that pairs wonderfully with basil flavors.

How to Perfect Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Achieving perfection with Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your chicken turns out fantastic every time.

• Bold Marinade Time: Allow your chicken to marinate for at least four hours. This enhances the flavor and tenderness.
• Bold Temperature Control: Maintain a grill temperature of 425 degrees F for even cooking. Adjust burners as needed.
• Bold Skin Preparation: Wipe excess marinade off the skin before grilling. This prevents burning while achieving crispy skin.
• Bold Use of Thermometer: Always check internal temperature; aim for 155 degrees F before resting for safety and optimal juiciness.
• Bold Resting Period: Let the chicken rest after grilling. Cover loosely with foil, allowing juices to redistribute for maximum flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Complementing your Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts with side dishes enhances the overall dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic pair perfectly with the grilled flavors.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances the savory chicken nicely.
3. Steamed Broccoli: A light and healthy option that adds color and nutrients to your plate.
4. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad that can be customized with various veggies and dressings.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn offers a sweet crunch that complements the basil garlic notes beautifully.
6. Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with olives and feta provides a delightful contrast in texture and taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your chicken turns out perfectly.

• Using old basil: Fresh basil is key for flavor. Always use fresh basil leaves for the best taste in your grilled chicken.
• Not marinating long enough: Marinating for at least four hours allows flavors to penetrate the chicken. Try to marinate for the full recommended time of up to 12 hours for maximum flavor.
• Skipping the skin preparation: Don’t forget to wipe off excess marinade from the skin side before grilling. This step helps achieve a crispy skin without burnt bits of basil.
• Grilling on too high heat: Cooking over high heat can lead to burnt outsides and raw insides. Aim for medium heat and adjust as necessary to maintain around 425 degrees F.
• Rushing the resting period: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking is crucial. It helps redistribute juices, ensuring moist and flavorful chicken when served.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

• Wrap each breast tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and 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 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Sear the chicken for about 5 minutes per side until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

To check if your chicken is cooked through, use a probe thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 155 degrees F before resting.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

While you can use dried basil, it won’t provide the same vibrant flavor as fresh basil. If you must use dried, only use about one-third of what you would use if it were fresh.

What should I serve with Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts?

This dish pairs well with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad. You can also serve it alongside our delicious Grilled Balsamic Peaches for a sweet contrast.

Can I marinate Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts overnight?

Yes! Marinating overnight enhances flavor even more. Just ensure you keep it refrigerated during this time.

How do I customize this recipe?

Feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can also add lemon juice or zest for an additional layer of flavor!

Final Thoughts

Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts offer a delightful blend of flavors that bring excitement to any meal. This recipe is not only simple but also versatile—perfect for customizing with your favorite herbs or sides. Give it a try and impress your family or guests with this delicious dish!