Peppered Grilled Basil Chicken
Dive into the vibrant flavors of Peppered Grilled Basil Chicken, a recipe that’s sure to elevate your grilling game! Tender, juicy chicken breasts are marinated in an aromatic blend of fresh basil, zesty lemon juice, smoky paprika, and a touch of honey for a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet notes. Cracked black pepper and optional red pepper flakes add a subtle kick, while garlic and olive oil infuse richness into every bite. The chicken is grilled to perfection, achieving a beautiful char and irresistible flavor. Quick to prep in just 15 minutes and versatile enough to pair with your favorite sides, this dish is ideal for summer dinners, backyard barbecues, or healthy weeknight meals. Garnish with fresh basil for a stunning finish, and let your taste buds revel in this herbaceous, peppery delight!
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Ingredients
- 4 pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Fresh basil leaves
- 4 tablespoons Extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 pieces Garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons Lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons Cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon Honey
- 0.5 teaspoons Red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions
Step 1
Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This ensures even cooking.
Step 2
In a medium mixing bowl, combine fresh basil leaves, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, cracked black pepper, salt, smoked paprika, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until well combined to create the marinade.
Step 3
Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the chicken is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.
Step 4
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 375–400°F/190–200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Step 5
Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
Step 6
Grill the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is nicely charred with grill marks.
Step 7
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.
Step 8
Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper, if desired. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (839.1g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1736.4 |
| Total Fat 79.8g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 14.5g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g | |
| Cholesterol 591.6mg | 0% |
| Sodium 2882.2mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 27.4g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 3.1g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 18.3g | |
| Protein 218.0g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 7.0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 148.4mg | 0% |
| Iron 8.7mg | 0% |
| Potassium 2033.1mg | 0% |
Source of Calories