Introduction
Grilled Basil Chicken
This Grilled Basil Chicken recipe is a delicious and simple dish that brings summer flavors to your table. With the fragrant aroma of fresh basil and the sweet tang of balsamic vinegar, this meal is sure to impress family and friends alike. Serve it with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Balsamic Vinegar
¾ cup
Fresh Basil Leaves
¼ cup, gently rubbed under cold running water
Olive Oil
2 tablespoons
Garlic Clove
1, minced
Salt
½ teaspoon
Plum Tomatoes
4, scrubbed with a clean vegetable brush under running water
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast Halves
4 (4 ounces each)
Prep Time
1 hour
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time
12 minutes
Total Time
1 hour 12 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Directions
1. Prepare the Marinade:
– Wash your hands with soap and water.
– After washing the basil and tomatoes, blot them dry with a clean paper towel.
– Using a clean cutting board, cut the tomatoes into quarters.
– In a blender, combine the balsamic vinegar, fresh basil leaves, olive oil, minced garlic, and salt. Cover and process until well blended.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
– Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish; do not rinse raw poultry.
– Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
– Cover the dish and refrigerate for about 1 hour, turning the chicken occasionally.
– Wash your hands with soap and water after handling uncooked chicken.
3. Grill the Chicken:
– Preheat the grill to medium heat and oil the grill rack to prevent sticking.
– Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Discard any leftover marinade; do not reuse marinades used on raw foods.
– Grill the chicken for 4-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, as measured with a food thermometer.
4. Serve:
– Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
– Serve the grilled basil chicken with the quartered tomatoes on the side.
Enjoy your meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Marinade:
– Wash your hands with soap and water.
– After washing the basil and tomatoes, blot them dry with a clean paper towel.
– Using a clean cutting board, cut the tomatoes into quarters.
– In a blender, combine the balsamic vinegar, fresh basil leaves, olive oil, minced garlic, and salt. Cover and process until well blended.
Marinate the Chicken:
– Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish; do not rinse raw poultry.
– Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
– Cover the dish and refrigerate for about 1 hour, turning the chicken occasionally.
– Wash your hands with soap and water after handling uncooked chicken.
Grill the Chicken:
– Preheat the grill to medium heat and oil the grill rack to prevent sticking.
– Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Discard any leftover marinade; do not reuse marinades used on raw foods.
– Grill the chicken for 4-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, as measured with a food thermometer.
Serve:
– Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
– Serve the grilled basil chicken with the quartered tomatoes on the side.
Notes
Food Safety:
– Always wash your hands before and after handling raw meat.
– Use separate utensils and cutting boards for raw poultry and other ingredients to prevent cross-contamination.
Serving Suggestions:
– This dish pairs well with a light salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage:
– Any leftover grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cook techniques
Marinating
Marinating is the process of soaking food in a seasoned liquid before cooking. It enhances flavor and tenderness by allowing the marinade to penetrate the food. In this recipe, the chicken is marinated in a mixture of balsamic vinegar, basil, and olive oil to infuse it with flavor.
Grilling
Grilling involves cooking food over direct heat, resulting in a distinct charred flavor and appealing grill marks. To ensure the chicken cooks evenly, preheat the grill to medium heat and oil the grill rack to prevent sticking.
Resting
Allowing cooked meat to rest before slicing helps retain its juices. After grilling, the chicken should rest for a few minutes, ensuring it remains moist and flavorful when served.
FAQ
What can I substitute for balsamic vinegar?
You can substitute balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, though the flavor will differ slightly.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
It is recommended to marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to absorb, but marinating it for up to 4 hours can enhance the flavor even more.
What is the ideal internal temperature for cooked chicken?
The ideal internal temperature for cooked chicken should be 165°F. Use a food thermometer to ensure it is safe to eat.
Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?
Yes, but bone-in chicken will require a longer cooking time. Ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
What sides pair well with grilled basil chicken?
Grilled vegetables, salads, or rice dishes complement grilled basil chicken very well.
Conclusion
Grilled Basil Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with the fresh flavors of basil and tangy balsamic vinegar. This recipe not only offers a fantastic meal option but also showcases the importance of marinating to enhance flavor and tenderness in chicken. Serve it with fresh tomatoes for a refreshing and wholesome dining experience.
More recipe suggestions and combination
Herbed Lemon Chicken
A zesty and aromatic alternative, marinate chicken in a blend of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and your favorite herbs for a bright and flavorful dish.
Spicy Asian Chicken Skewers
Combine chicken with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of sriracha, then grill on skewers for a smoky, spicy treat perfect for outdoor gatherings.
Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs
Create a sweet and savory marinade using honey, Dijon mustard, and garlic for a rich flavor. Grill or bake the chicken thighs for a satisfying meal.
Pesto Grilled Vegetable Medley
For a vegetarian option, grill a mix of seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant tossed in pesto for a nutritious side dish.
Cilantro Lime Chicken
Marinate chicken in a mixture of lime juice, cilantro, and garlic for a fresh, zesty flavor that’s perfect for summer grilling.
Mango Salsa Chicken
Top grilled chicken breasts with a vibrant mango salsa made from diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro for a tropical twist.