Enjoy the taste of these simple yet mouthwatering Basil Chicken Breasts. With just a handful of ingredients like boneless chicken, garlic, fresh basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of sweetness from honey, you can create a delicious dish that’s an easy and delicious way to enjoy tender, juicy chicken bursting with flavour!
1½cupfresh basil leaves(finely chopped, or 3 tbsp basil paste)
2tbspolive oil
2tbspbalsamic vinegar
Zest from one lemon
lemon
1tbspHoney
1tspDijon mustard
½tspsalt
¼tspblack pepper
Instructions
In a bowl, whisk together minced garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag.
Pour the garlic basil marinade over the chicken breasts, making sure they are evenly coated. If using a bag, seal it and massage the marinade into the chicken.
Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 45 minutes to marinate. For more flavor, you can marinate the chicken for up to 4 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C)
Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and discard the excess marinade.
Bake the marinated chicken breasts in the for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway until cooked through, and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serve the Chicken Breast hot, garnished with extra basil leaves along with your favourite sides.
Enjoy!
Notes
For a Smoother Texture: Blend fresh basil leaves with a bit of olive oil to achieve a paste-like consistency, perfect for even coating or incorporating into the dish.
Optional Cooking Method:
Grilling: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken breasts for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken.
Storing:
Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Place the leftover chicken in a freezer-safe, airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Thawing: Transfer frozen chicken to the refrigerator and thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm the chicken in the microwave, oven, or stovetop until heated through.
Tip:Add a splash of water or chicken broth during reheating to maintain moisture.