Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts is a dish that brings together simple ingredients for an unforgettable meal. The combination of garlic and fresh basil elevates the chicken, making it perfect for family dinners, barbecues, or special occasions. This recipe not only delivers bold flavors but also ensures your chicken remains juicy and tender. Whether served whole or sliced, it’s bound to impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses only a handful of common ingredients, making it easy to prepare without any fuss.
• Incredible Flavor: The mix of garlic and fresh basil infuses the chicken with a delicious aroma and taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Meal Option: Serve it as a main course or slice it up for salads, sandwiches, or wraps—the possibilities are endless!
• Perfectly Grilled: The grilling technique ensures crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy and flavorful.
• Healthy Choice: With lean chicken and fresh herbs, this dish fits well into a balanced diet.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking much smoother. Here are the essential items you will need to prepare Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor on the chicken.
• Probe thermometer: Helps ensure your chicken reaches the ideal internal temperature for safety and juiciness.
• Mortar and pestle: Ideal for mashing garlic into a paste, enhancing the flavor infusion into the chicken.

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 until you reach your desired consistency. Using a mortar and pestle works best; mash the garlic with salt to create a paste before adding basil and oil.

Step 2: Marinate Chicken

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

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

When you’re ready to grill, remove the chicken from the bag. Wipe just the skin side free of marinade. Brush olive oil over it and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Grill Skin Side Down

Place chicken skin side down over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes. Turn them 90 degrees halfway through to create crosshatch marks.

Step 5: Flip Chicken

Once crispy on one side, flip each piece over and move it to a cooler part of the grill. Cook covered for another 8-10 minutes while maintaining an internal temperature of around 425°F.

Step 6: Check Temperature

Use a probe thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 155°F before removing from heat.

Step 7: Rest Before Serving

Loosely cover with foil and let rest for about five minutes. The internal temperature will continue to rise above 160°F during this time.

Step 8: Serve

Serve either whole or sliced alongside dishes like our Grilled Balsamic Peaches for an impressive meal!

How to Serve Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts are not just a delicious main dish but also versatile for various serving styles. Here are some creative ways to present this flavorful chicken to impress your family and guests.

With Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: Serve the chicken on a bed of mixed greens, drizzled with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing touch.
• Caprese Salad: Pair it with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for an Italian twist that complements the flavors.

As Part of a Sandwich

• Grilled Chicken Sandwich: Slice the chicken and layer it in a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and pesto sauce for a delightful sandwich.
• Wrap It Up: Wrap sliced chicken in a tortilla with avocado, spinach, and a creamy dressing for an easy meal on the go.

With Pasta

• Pasta Primavera: Serve alongside pasta tossed with seasonal vegetables and olive oil to elevate your dinner experience.
• Garlic Parmesan Pasta: The rich flavors of garlic in the chicken will pair wonderfully with creamy garlic parmesan pasta.

How to Perfect Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Perfecting your Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Marinate Wisely: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least four hours to enhance flavor but avoid exceeding 12 hours as it can make the meat too salty.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure you cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 155 degrees F. This prevents undercooking while keeping it juicy.
• Preheat Your Grill: Always preheat your grill before adding the chicken. A hot grill helps achieve that crispy skin everyone loves.
• Let It Rest: After grilling, cover the chicken loosely with foil and let it rest for five minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute.
• Adjust Heat Levels: If using a gas grill, adjust burners to maintain an internal grill temperature of 425 degrees F. This ensures even cooking without burning.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Pairing side dishes with Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts enhances the meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the grilled flavors beautifully.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous tossed with herbs, lemon juice, and diced veggies provides a light and zesty side.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa cooked with broth and spices pairs well with chicken while offering added protein.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus grilled alongside the chicken makes for a healthy and vibrant addition.
6. Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: These roasted sprouts drizzled with balsamic reduction add richness and depth to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts, it’s easy to overlook a few important details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Not marinating long enough: Marinating for at least four hours enhances flavor. Aim for 12 hours if possible for the best taste.
• Skipping the skin prep: Cleaning the skin side of the chicken before grilling ensures that it crisps up perfectly without burnt bits of basil.
• Overcooking the chicken: Use a probe thermometer to check for 155 degrees F. This ensures juicy chicken without being dry.
• Forgetting to rest the chicken: Letting the chicken rest after cooking allows juices to redistribute, keeping it moist and flavorful.
• Neglecting grill temperature: Maintaining a consistent internal grill temperature of 425 degrees F is key for even cooking and crispy skin.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container.
• It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal quality.

Reheating Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of oil and warm each piece for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I ensure my Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts are juicy?

Marinating your chicken properly is crucial. Additionally, use a thermometer to check doneness without overcooking.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

While fresh basil offers a vibrant flavor, you can use dried basil. However, reduce the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

What should I serve with Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts?

This dish pairs well with grilled vegetables or salads. You can also serve it with our Grilled Balsamic Peaches for added sweetness.

How do I customize my Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts?

Feel free to add other herbs like oregano or thyme or include spices such as paprika for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for any occasion. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or sides. Give it a try and enjoy this flavorful meal that everyone will love!