Imagine a dish that captures the essence of a perfect summer evening - tender, juicy grilled chicken nestled on a bed of vibrant, zesty pasta that bursts with fresh basil and bright lemon flavors. This Grilled Chicken with Lemon Basil Pasta is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality dinner you can easily create at home. Whether you're looking to impress your family or want a quick yet sophisticated weeknight meal, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and transport your senses to the sun-drenched coastlines of Italy.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 8 oz pasta
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels and seasoning generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Brush the chicken breasts lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness.
- While the chicken is grilling, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- In a large skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the garlic. Toss the pasta with the olive oil and garlic.
- Add fresh lemon juice and chopped basil to the pasta. Gently mix to combine and coat the pasta evenly.
- Remove the grilled chicken from the heat and let it rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Slice the chicken breasts diagonally and arrange over the lemon basil pasta.
- Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Always pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect sear and crispy exterior.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee chicken is cooked to exactly 165°F - no more dry chicken!
- Let chicken rest after grilling to keep it juicy and tender.
- Reserve a little pasta water before draining - it can help create a silkier sauce if needed.
- Use fresh basil and freshly squeezed lemon juice for the most vibrant flavor.
- Don't overcook the garlic - 30-45 seconds is perfect to release flavor without burning.
- For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken for 30 minutes before grilling.
- Choose high-quality olive oil for the best taste in your pasta.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 456kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 31g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 90mg
