This tasty Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken is bursting with flavor! Marinated in garlic and fresh basil, these chicken breasts are juicy and perfect for any meal.
I love grilling them up for a summer BBQ or a simple weeknight dinner. Just serve with some veggies, and you’ve got a yummy dish ready to go!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for grilling. If you’re looking for a substitution, you can use chicken thighs for juicier meat, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds a bright flavor. If unavailable, you can use dried basil – just reduce to about 1 tablespoon. You might also try parsley or cilantro for a different twist.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best taste. If you don’t have any, garlic powder can be used, but it will lack some depth. About 1 teaspoon of garlic powder should be fine.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is great for the marinade, but any cooking oil like avocado or canola will work too. For a bit of flavor, consider using infused oils.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to juicy chicken is marinating! Letting your chicken sit in the marinade for 2-3 hours allows the flavors to soak in deeply. Here’s why marinating is essential:
- It adds flavor throughout the meat, not just on the surface.
- The oil helps keep the chicken moist while grilling.
- A little acid from the lemon juice tenderizes the meat.
Once you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high. Make sure to allow the chicken to rest after grilling to keep it tender when you slice it.
Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and at least 30 minutes for marinating. You’ll also need about 15 minutes for grilling. Overall, plan for about 1 hour if you let the chicken marinate for a while to enhance the flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine chopped basil, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you’d like a little heat. Mix everything together well to create a delicious marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Put the chicken breasts into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is nicely coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even better, for 2 to 3 hours to soak up all the flavors.
3. Preheat and Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the chicken breasts out of the marinade and place them on the grill. Grill each side for about 6-7 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Ensure it’s cooked through and has nice grill marks!
4. Rest and Serve:
Once grilled, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps to lock in the juices. Slice it up, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve it warm with your favorite sides, like a salad or grilled vegetables. Enjoy your flavorful grilled chicken!
Can I Use a Different Type of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs for a juicier option, or even bone-in pieces. Just be sure to adjust the grilling time, as bone-in pieces may take longer to cook through.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, you can substitute dried basil; use about 1 tablespoon instead. However, fresh herbs typically provide a more vibrant flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven?
Yes, you can bake the marinated chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Just make sure to baste with the marinade during baking for extra flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on a skillet until warmed through. Enjoy them in salads, wraps, or sandwiches!
