Lemon And Basil Grilled Chicken
Juicy grilled chicken infused with zesty lemon and fragrant basil, perfect for a light, flavorful meal suitable for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine oil, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, lemon peel, dried basil, garlic, salt, and ground pepper in a shallow baking dish.
- Add chicken to the dish, making sure to coat both sides.
- Refrigerate for 30 to 45 minutes, turning once to marinate evenly.
- Prepare charcoal for grilling or heat the broiler.
- Grill or broil chicken 4 inches from heat, turning once, for 3 to 5 minutes per side or until completely cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh basil instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor. If you don't have white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar is a great substitute. When grilling, consider using a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. For added flavor, you can marinate the chicken overnight. This dish pairs wonderfully with Mediterranean recipes for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the grilled chicken with a side of Rice Vegetable Pilaf or Nellie'S Yellow Rice for a satisfying meal. A fresh garden salad or grilled vegetables can enhance the dish beautifully. For a refreshing drink pairing, consider serving with a chilled lemonade or iced tea to complement the lemony flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also slice and use it cold in salads or wraps for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon And Basil Grilled Chicken contains roughly 311 calories, with 2g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g 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 a different type of oil for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the Puritan oil with olive oil or avocado oil for a different flavor profile. Olive oil will add a richer taste, while avocado oil has a high smoke point, making it excellent for grilling.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinating the chicken for 30 to 45 minutes is ideal, but if you want a more intense flavor, you can marinate it for up to 2 hours. Just be cautious not to exceed this time, as the acidity from the lemon juice can make the chicken mushy.
What can I serve with the Lemon And Basil Grilled Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a light quinoa salad or roasted vegetables. For a heartier option, try it alongside Grilled Rosemary Chicken or pasta dishes. These combinations will elevate your dining experience.
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).