Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Published: August 1, 2025

by Alexia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks.
Flavorful Experience: The combination of fresh basil and garlic creates an irresistible aroma and taste that everyone will love.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it whole or sliced—this chicken works well with various sides like salads or grilled vegetables.
Healthy Meal Choice: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this recipe fits well into many dietary plans without sacrificing flavor.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a weekend barbecue, this chicken dish suits any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools and equipment to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill
Meat thermometer
Gallon zip lock bag
Small bowl
Mortar and pestle (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect smoky flavor while giving the chicken its signature crispy skin.
Meat Thermometer: Ensures the chicken reaches safe internal temperatures without overcooking.
Gallon Zip Lock Bag: Ideal for marinating the chicken evenly, allowing all flavors to infuse beautifully.
Mortar and Pestle: Helps in creating a paste from garlic and salt, maximizing the flavor extraction.

Ingredients

Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken combines a few simple ingredients into one fantastic, flavorful meal!

For the Chicken

4 large boneless skin-on chicken breast halves (10-12 ounces each)
3 tablespoons finely minced garlic
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ cup chopped fresh basil
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
Olive oil, salt and freshly ground black pepper for skin

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, mix together garlic, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, chopped basil, and olive oil. Use additional olive oil if needed. A mortar and pestle can be helpful here; mashing the garlic with salt creates a paste that blends well when adding basil and oil.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Smear the marinade on both sides of the chicken breasts while ensuring the skins remain intact. Place the marinated breasts into a gallon zip lock bag. Refrigerate them for at least four hours or up to twelve hours to allow flavors to meld.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

When ready to grill, remove the chicken from the bag. Wipe just the skin side free of marinade using paper towels. Brush olive oil over the skin side and season lightly with salt and pepper. This step helps achieve crispy skin without burnt bits of basil.

Step 4: Start Grilling

Place the chicken skin side down on medium heat. Grill for about 8-10 minutes while turning 90 degrees halfway through to create crosshatch marks.

Step 5: Finish Cooking

Once you have crisped up the skin, flip each piece over. Move them to a cooler part of the grill and cook with the lid closed for another 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on maintaining an internal temperature of 425 degrees F by adjusting burners as necessary.

Step 6: Check Temperature & Rest

Remove chicken from heat once it reaches an internal temperature of 155 degrees F measured with a probe thermometer. Cover loosely with foil and let rest for about five minutes before serving; this allows residual heat to raise it above 160 degrees F.

Step 7: Serve

Slice or serve whole alongside your favorite sides like Grilled Balsamic Peaches for added sweetness!

Enjoy your delicious Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts!

How to Serve Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts are not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them in various ways to suit different occasions and tastes. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Pair with Fresh Salads

Caprese Salad – Combine fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze for a refreshing side.
Greek Salad – Mix cucumbers, olives, feta cheese, and tomatoes for a vibrant Mediterranean touch.

Create a Sandwich

Garlic Chicken Sandwich – Slice the chicken and layer it on a toasted bun with garlic aioli and arugula for a tasty treat.
Pesto Chicken Wrap – Roll the grilled chicken in a tortilla with pesto, spinach, and roasted peppers for an easy-to-eat option.

Serve with Sauces

Balsamic Reduction – Drizzle this sweet-tart sauce over the chicken for added flavor.
Herb Yogurt Sauce – A tangy yogurt sauce with herbs complements the garlic and basil beautifully.

How to Perfect Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

To ensure your Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

Marinate Properly – Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 4 hours. This enhances the flavor and tenderness.
Use a Meat Thermometer – Check that the internal temperature reaches 155 degrees F for optimal juiciness while cooking.
Preheat Your Grill – Make sure your grill is hot before placing the chicken on it. This helps achieve that crispy skin.
Avoid Overcrowding – Grill in batches if needed to ensure even cooking and browning of each piece.
Let It Rest – After grilling, allow the chicken to rest under foil for 5 minutes. This helps retain its juices before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

To complement your Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts, consider pairing them with these delicious side dishes. They enhance flavors and create a well-rounded meal.

Roasted Vegetables – Toss seasonal vegetables in olive oil and roast until tender for a colorful side.
Quinoa Salad – A light salad made with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon vinaigrette adds freshness.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting accompaniment.
Grilled Asparagus – Quickly grill asparagus spears brushed with olive oil; they add crunch and color to your plate.
Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn grilled to perfection is a classic summer side that pairs well with chicken.
Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs brings an aromatic touch that complements grilled flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling can be tricky, especially with chicken. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when preparing Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts.

Not marinating long enough: Failing to marinate the chicken for at least four hours can result in bland flavor. Aim for 12 hours if you can for maximum taste.
Ignoring the skin: Skipping the step of wiping the marinade off the skin can lead to burnt basil pieces. Always clean the skin before grilling for a nice, crispy finish.
Grilling at the wrong temperature: Cooking chicken over inconsistent heat may lead to uneven cooking. Monitor your grill’s temperature closely to maintain 425 degrees F.
Cutting into the chicken too soon: Slicing into the chicken immediately after cooking can cause juices to escape, making it dry. Let it rest for five minutes before serving.
Using an inaccurate thermometer: Relying on guesswork instead of a probe thermometer can result in undercooked or overcooked chicken. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 155 degrees F.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store cooked chicken in an airtight container.
It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Ensure it is cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Label with the date for easy reference.

Reheating Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and place chicken in a baking dish covered with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and warm each piece for about 5-7 minutes per side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh for Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts?

While dried basil is convenient, fresh basil offers a stronger flavor and aroma that enhances this dish significantly.

How do I know when my Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts are done?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer; ensure it reads at least 155 degrees F in the thickest part of the breast.

What side dishes pair well with Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts?

Consider serving it with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad. You can also try our Grilled Balsamic Peaches for a tasty complement!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate and even grill the chicken ahead of time, then store it as instructed above. Just reheat before serving.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts is not just delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different herbs or spices according to your taste. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Try it out and enjoy this flavorful dish!

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