Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts is a simple yet delicious dish that brings together the robust flavors of garlic and fresh basil with tender chicken. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a cozy meal at home, this recipe shines with its easy preparation and mouthwatering taste. With just a few ingredients, you can create a meal that impresses everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With only a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of garlic and fresh basil infuses the chicken with rich flavors that are simply irresistible.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it whole or sliced; this dish pairs beautifully with various sides like salads or grilled vegetables.
• Healthy Meal Choice: High in protein and low in carbs, this chicken dish fits well into healthy meal plans.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish suits all occasions effortlessly.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. These will help make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor on the chicken breasts.
• Gallon zip lock bag: Ideal for marinating the chicken, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
• Mortar and pestle: Great for crushing garlic to 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

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 to create a paste-like consistency. Using a mortar and pestle works best as it helps mash the garlic effectively.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Smear the marinade mixture onto both sides of each chicken breast while ensuring the skins remain intact. Place the coated breasts in a gallon zip lock bag to marinate in the refrigerator for four to twelve hours.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

When ready to grill, remove the chicken from the bag. Wipe off excess marinade from just the skin side to help it brown nicely without burning any basil pieces. Brush olive oil onto the skin side and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Place the chicken skin side down on medium heat for about 8-10 minutes. For distinct crosshatch grill marks, turn each piece 90 degrees halfway through grilling. Once crisped up, flip each breast over and move them to a cooler side of your grill. Cook covered for another 8-10 minutes while maintaining an internal temperature of 425 degrees F.

Step 5: Check Doneness

Using a probe thermometer, check that each piece reaches an internal temperature of 155 degrees F before removing them from the grill.

Step 6: Rest Before Serving

Cover loosely with foil and let rest for about five minutes; this allows internal temperatures to rise above 160 degrees F.

Step 7: Serve

Slice or serve whole alongside your favorite sides like Grilled Balsamic Peaches for an amazing meal!

How to Serve Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts are versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Fresh Salads

• Caprese Salad: Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a refreshing contrast.
• Arugula Salad: Toss arugula with lemon vinaigrette for a peppery kick that complements the chicken.

On a Bed of Rice or Quinoa

• Garlic Herb Rice: Cook rice with garlic and herbs for a fragrant side that pairs well with the flavors of the chicken.
• Lemon Quinoa: Fluff quinoa with lemon juice and zest to add brightness to your dish.

Accompanied by Grilled Vegetables

• Zucchini and Bell Peppers: Grill sliced zucchini and bell peppers until charred, adding a smoky flavor.
• Asparagus: Lightly season asparagus before grilling for a crisp side that balances the richness of the chicken.

Topped with Sauces

• Pesto Sauce: Drizzle homemade or store-bought pesto over the chicken for an extra layer of flavor.
• Balsamic Reduction: A tangy balsamic reduction adds depth and sweetness, enhancing the overall taste.

How to Perfect Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

To achieve perfectly grilled chicken every time, follow these essential tips.

• Marinate Wisely: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 4 hours enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure the grill is hot before placing the chicken on it to get that perfect sear.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Check for an internal temperature of 155 degrees F. to ensure it’s cooked safely yet remains juicy.
• Don’t Skip Resting Time: Letting the chicken rest after grilling allows juices to redistribute, keeping it moist when sliced.
• Keep It Simple: Avoid overcrowding on the grill; give each piece enough space to cook evenly.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Pair your Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts with these delicious side dishes to create a complete meal.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the savory notes of the chicken nicely.
2. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter and grilled adds a delightful crunch and sweetness.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts roasted with olive oil make for a healthy yet indulgent side.
4. Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with olives, tomatoes, and herbs offers vibrant flavors alongside your main dish.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Baked or fried sweet potato fries provide a sweet contrast that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats.
6. Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry: Lightly sautéed cauliflower rice with vegetables is a low-carb alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not allowing the chicken to marinate for enough time can lead to bland flavors. Aim for at least four hours, or up to twelve, for best results.
• Ignoring Temperature Control: Cooking at too high a temperature can burn the garlic and basil. Maintain a steady grill temperature around 425 degrees F for even cooking.
• Not Using a Meat Thermometer: Relying on guesswork can result in undercooked or overcooked chicken. Use a probe thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 155 degrees F.
• Neglecting Skin Preparation: Failing to wipe excess marinade from the skin can lead to soggy skin. Always clean off extra marinade before grilling for a crispy finish.
• Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too many pieces of chicken on the grill at once can lower the temperature and cook unevenly. Give each piece space for optimal grilling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

• Cool completely before freezing to maintain texture.
• Wrap each breast tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F, place chicken on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Slice chicken and warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts:

How do I choose the right chicken breasts?

Select large boneless skin-on chicken breast halves weighing between 10-12 ounces. Freshness is key for optimal flavor.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

While you can use dried basil, fresh basil will provide superior flavor and aroma. If using dried, reduce the amount by one-third.

What sides pair well with Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts?

Consider pairing this dish with grilled vegetables, a refreshing salad, or our Grilled Balsamic Peaches for a delightful contrast.

How should I adjust cooking times for larger pieces?

If using larger chicken breasts, increase grilling time slightly while ensuring you maintain the recommended internal temperature of 155 degrees F.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken breasts a day in advance and simply grill them when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts are not only flavorful but also versatile enough for any occasion. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Feel free to customize it by adding different herbs or spices based on your preferences!