Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Published: July 6, 2025

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Flavorful: The blend of garlic and fresh basil infuses the chicken with incredible taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it whole or sliced, making it perfect for both casual family meals and elegant dinner parties.
Perfect for Grilling Season: Enjoy this dish on the grill during warm weather, adding a smoky flavor that enhances its appeal.
Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this dish fits well into various dietary plans.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill
Gallon zip lock bag
Mortar and pestle (optional)
Probe thermometer
Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor on the chicken.
Mortar and Pestle: Ideal for creating a smooth garlic paste mixed with basil and oil.
Probe Thermometer: Ensures the chicken reaches the right internal temperature for safety and juiciness.

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 garlic, 1 teaspoon of salt, basil, and olive oil. If necessary, add more oil to achieve your desired consistency. Using a mortar and pestle helps mash the garlic into a paste which enhances flavor absorption.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Smear the garlic-basil mixture on both sides of the chicken breasts while keeping the skin intact. Place them gently in a gallon zip lock bag and refrigerate. Allow them to marinate for at least four hours or up to twelve hours for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

When you’re ready to grill, take out the chicken from the bag. Wipe just the skin side to remove excess marinade. Brush olive oil on this side then sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Place chicken skin side down over medium heat on your grill. Cook for about 8-10 minutes while turning it 90 degrees halfway through to create beautiful cross-hatch marks.

Step 5: Finish Cooking

Once you have crispy skin, flip each piece over. Move them to a cooler part of your grill. Close the cover and cook for another 8-10 minutes while maintaining an internal temperature of around 425 degrees F.

Step 6: Check Doneness

Remove chicken from heat when it reaches an internal temperature of 155 degrees F using a probe thermometer.

Step 7: Rest Before Serving

Cover loosely with foil allowing it to rest for about five minutes. The residual heat will raise its internal temperature above 160 degrees F.

Step 8: Serve

Slice or serve whole alongside our delightful Grilled Balsamic Peaches for an unforgettable meal!

How to Serve Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts are not only delicious but also versatile. You can pair them with various sides and garnishes to enhance the meal experience for your family and guests.

With Fresh Salads

Caprese Salad: Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a refreshing side.
Greek Salad: Combine cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese for a tangy flavor contrast.

On Sandwiches

Chicken Basil Sandwich: Slice the chicken and serve on crusty bread with pesto and arugula.
Grilled Chicken Wrap: Roll sliced chicken in a tortilla with mixed greens and your favorite dressing.

Accompanied by Dipping Sauces

Garlic Aioli: A creamy garlic sauce that complements the flavors beautifully.
Balsamic Reduction: Drizzle over chicken for added sweetness and acidity.

How to Perfect Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

To achieve the best results with your Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts, consider these practical tips that will elevate your grilling game.

Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for up to 12 hours enhances flavor absorption.
Use a Meat Thermometer: This ensures you cook the chicken to the perfect internal temperature without overcooking.
Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill helps achieve that desired crisp skin while locking in juices.
Rest Before Serving: Letting the chicken rest allows juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Pairing your Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts with complementary side dishes can make your meal complete. Here are some excellent options:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted in olive oil make a colorful addition.
Quinoa Salad: A nutty quinoa salad mixed with veggies adds nutrition and texture.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus brings a fresh crunch to the plate.
Pasta Primavera: Tossed pasta with fresh vegetables offers a delightful Italian flair.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled to perfection enhances summer vibes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling can be tricky, especially with Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of while preparing this dish.

Skipping the marinade time: Marinating the chicken for at least four hours enhances flavor. Don’t rush this step; longer marination (up to 12 hours) yields better results.
Not drying the skin: It’s vital to wipe off excess marinade from the skin before grilling. This helps achieve a crispy texture and prevents burnt bits from herbs.
Ignoring the grill temperature: Maintaining an internal grill temperature of 425 degrees F is crucial. Use a thermometer to check and adjust burners as needed for even cooking.
Flipping too soon: Patience is key when grilling. Allow the chicken to develop a nice crust before flipping it, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes on skin side down.
Not resting the chicken: Resting is essential after cooking. Cover loosely with foil and let it sit for 5 minutes to ensure juicy, tender meat.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store grilled chicken in an airtight container.
It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Make sure it’s cooled down before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover with a lid or damp paper towel, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, and cover. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through, flipping halfway.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts?

Marinate the chicken for at least four hours, but you can extend it up to 12 hours for deeper flavor penetration.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

While fresh basil is preferred for its vibrant flavor, you can substitute dried basil. Use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

What pairs well with Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts?

This dish pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, rice, or our recommended Grilled Balsamic Peaches for a sweet complement.

How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked?

Use a probe thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 155 degrees F. The chicken will continue cooking after being removed from the grill.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Basil Garlic Chicken Breasts offers an explosion of flavors wrapped in simple ingredients. Its versatility allows you to pair it with various sides or customize it by adding your favorite herbs and spices. Give this recipe a try; it’s bound to impress family and guests alike!

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