Lemon Basil Grilled Chicken
Juicy grilled chicken infused with bright lemon and fresh basil flavors, perfect for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners for the flavor-conscious cook.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine oil, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, grated lemon peel, dried basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a shallow baking dish.
- Add chicken to the dish, turning once to coat both sides.
- Refrigerate for 30 to 45 minutes, turning once during marination.
- Prepare charcoal for grilling or heat the broiler.
- Grill or broil chicken 4 inches from heat, turning once, for 3 to 5 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. If you're out of white wine vinegar, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar. Fresh basil can be used instead of dried; use about three times the amount. Ensure your grill is preheated to avoid sticking. Consider using a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Lemon Basil Grilled Chicken alongside a refreshing salad or over a bed of Amazing Rice for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a light pasta dish. For a delightful touch, drizzle some extra lemon juice on top before serving, and consider complementing it with a chilled white wine.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use a microwave with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Avoid reheating more than once to keep the chicken tender.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Basil Grilled Chicken contains roughly 277 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value).
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 other types of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of breasts. Just adjust the cooking time, as darker meat usually takes longer to cook through. Ensure they reach the same internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
Is it possible to grill the chicken indoors?
Absolutely! If you don't have an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop. Make sure to preheat the pan and use medium-high heat. Cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the chicken.
What should I do if I don't have fresh lemon juice?
If you're out of fresh lemon juice, bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute, but fresh juice offers a brighter flavor. Alternatively, vinegar can add acidity; just adjust the quantity to taste, as it may be more potent.
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).