Basil Grilled Chicken
Juicy grilled chicken breasts infused with fresh basil and topped with a flavorful basil butter, perfect for a light, aromatic, and herbaceous meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Press 3/4 teaspoon pepper into the meaty sides of the chicken breasts.
- Combine 1/3 cup melted butter and 1/4 cup chopped basil and stir well.
- Brush the chicken lightly with the melted butter mixture.
- Combine 1/2 cup softened butter, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Beat with an electric mixer at low speed until the mixture is well blended and smooth.
- Transfer the basil butter mixture to a small serving bowl and set aside.
- Grill chicken on an outdoor barbecue at medium temperature for 8 to 10 minutes on each side, basting frequently with the remaining melted butter mixture.
- Serve grilled chicken with the basil butter mixture and garnish with fresh basil sprigs.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense basil flavor, consider using a mix of fresh and dried basil. If you don't have Parmesan cheese, nutritional yeast can provide a similar cheesy taste. Make sure to baste the chicken frequently while grilling to keep it moist. Using a meat thermometer, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken. This method is also great for preparing dishes like Zippy Crisp Chicken Bake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the grilled chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a light meal. It pairs beautifully with Festive Rice for a more filling option. For an extra touch, drizzle some balsamic glaze over the chicken before serving. You can also enjoy leftovers in sandwiches or alongside BBQ sauces as a fun twist on traditional American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it on medium power for 2-3 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t dry out. This chicken also works well in salads or wraps the next day.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basil Grilled Chicken contains roughly 225 calories, with 14g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (92% of the Daily Value), iron (31% of the Daily Value), and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use skin-on chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken breasts. Just be mindful that they may require slightly longer cooking times. The skin will also get crispy and flavorful while grilling, adding a different texture to the dish.
What can I substitute for fresh basil if I can't find any?
If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use dried basil as a substitute. Use one-third of the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated. Alternatively, consider using other fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to impart a different flavor profile.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way to check if the chicken is fully cooked is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the breast; it should read at least 165°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the chicken to ensure the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).