Honey Lemon Basil Grilled Chicken
Introduction
Grilled chicken is a summer staple, but adding a unique twist with honey, lemon, and basil takes it to another level. This Honey Lemon Basil Grilled Chicken recipe combines sweet and tangy flavors with the freshness of basil, creating a dish that’s perfect for a backyard barbecue or a simple weeknight dinner. Not only is it easy to make, but it also delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.
Preparing the Marinade
The Importance of Marinading
Marinating your chicken is the key to infusing it with flavor and keeping it moist. The combination of honey, lemon, and basil creates a bright, herbaceous marinade that perfectly complements the grilled chicken.
Combining Ingredients
Start by whisking together the honey, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a medium-sized bowl. Add the olive oil and minced garlic, stirring until well combined. Finally, fold in the chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste. This marinade strikes the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.
Marinating the Chicken
How Long to Marinate
For the best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but if you have the time, let it sit for up to 2 hours. The longer the chicken marinates, the more the flavors will permeate the meat.
Tips for Marinating
Place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over it, making sure each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate. Turn the chicken occasionally to ensure even marinating.
Grilling the Chicken
Preparing the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. To prevent sticking, lightly oil the grill grates using a paper towel dipped in oil and held with tongs.
Cooking Time and Temperature
Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If you’re using chicken thighs, the cooking time might be slightly longer due to their thickness.
Achieving the Perfect Grill Marks
To get those beautiful grill marks, resist the urge to move the chicken around too much. Place it on the grill and let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes before flipping.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes to Complement
This Honey Lemon Basil Grilled Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad, grilled vegetables, or a light quinoa pilaf. The bright flavors of the chicken will complement many different dishes.
Garnishing with Fresh Basil and Lemon
Just before serving, garnish the chicken with additional fresh basil leaves and lemon slices for a burst of color and freshness. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds an extra layer of flavor.
Health Benefits
Nutritional Information
This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. A typical serving provides approximately:
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 8g
Benefits of Honey, Lemon, and Basil
- Honey: Natural sweetener with antioxidant properties
- Lemon: Rich in vitamin C and aids in digestion
- Basil: Contains anti-inflammatory compounds and adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor
Variations and Customizations
Honey Lemon Basil Chicken Skewers
For a fun twist, you can make this recipe into skewers. Cut the chicken into cubes, thread them onto skewers, and grill as directed. This is a great option for parties or outdoor gatherings.
Baked Honey Lemon Basil Chicken
If you don’t have access to a grill, you can easily bake this chicken in the oven. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), place the marinated chicken in a baking dish, and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
Storing and Reheating
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish also freezes well; just make sure to wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
Best Practices for Reheating
To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it, as this can dry out the meat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh basil provides a more vibrant flavor. If you use dried basil, reduce the amount by half.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but be sure to use an oil-based marinade and avoid any optional dairy garnishes.
What other herbs can I use if I don’t have basil?
If you’re out of basil, you can substitute it with fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley for a different flavor profile.
Can this recipe be made in advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to grill.
How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?
Make sure your grill is well-oiled and preheated before adding the chicken. You can also brush the chicken lightly with oil to help prevent sticking.
Conclusion
Honey Lemon Basil Grilled Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet honey, tangy lemon, and fresh basil creates a mouthwatering marinade that makes the chicken tender and juicy. Whether you’re grilling for a family dinner or hosting a summer barbecue, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it out, customize it to your liking, and enjoy the delicious, fresh flavors of this delightful dish!
Honey Lemon Basil Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken is a summer staple, but adding a unique twist with honey, lemon, and basil takes it to another level. This Honey Lemon Basil Grilled Chicken recipe combines sweet and tangy flavors with the freshness of basil, creating a dish that's perfect for a backyard barbecue or a simple weeknight dinner. Not only is it easy to make, but it also delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1/4 Cup Olive Oil
- 1 Lemon Zest
- 1/4 Cup Lemon Juice, fresh
- 1/3 Cup Honey
- 1 teaspoon Montreal Chicken Seasoning
- 6 Chicken Thighs, boneless
- 1/4-1/3 Cup Basil, chiffonade, fresh
Instructions
Whisk together the oil, zest, lemon juice, honey, Montreal chicken seasoning and place in a large glass dish.
1/4 Cup Olive Oil,1 Lemon Zest,1/4 Cup Lemon Juice,1/3 Cup Honey,1 teaspoon Montreal Chicken Seasoning
Remove a couple of tablespoons to a bowl.
Add the chicken thighs to the glass dish and turn over in the marinade.
6 Chicken Thighs
Cover with plastic wrap and place in the fridge for 30 minutes or up to 3 hours.
Heat the grill to medium heat and place the thighs on the grill.
Cook for 4-6 minutes and then turn over.
Baste the chicken with the small bowl of the unused marinade and cook an additional 4-6 minutes.
Remove to a platter and tent with foil.
Allow to rest for 3-5 minutes and then serve with the basil sprinkled over.
1/4-1/3 Cup Basil
Notes
Nutrition Information:
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 375