Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary feast! This Grilled Chicken with Basil Chimichurri isn't just a recipe—it's a flavor explosion that combines the smoky perfection of grilled chicken with a vibrant, herbaceous sauce that will transport you straight to the sun-drenched landscapes of Argentina. Whether you're a seasoned home chef or a weekend grilling enthusiast, this dish promises to elevate your cooking game and impress even the most discerning palates.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Argentinian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the basil chimichurri sauce. In a food processor, combine 1 cup of fresh basil leaves, 2 cloves of garlic (peeled), 1/4 cup of olive oil, and 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pulse the mixture until it is well combined but still slightly chunky. Taste the chimichurri and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the chicken.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While the grill is heating, season the 4 chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Once the grill is hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side without moving them to achieve nice grill marks.
- After 6-7 minutes, flip the chicken breasts and continue to grill for an additional 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it tender and juicy.
- While the chicken is resting, give the chimichurri a final stir. If desired, you can add a bit more olive oil or vinegar to adjust the consistency and flavor.
- To serve, slice the grilled chicken breasts and drizzle the basil chimichurri generously over the top. Enjoy your Grilled Chicken with Basil Chimichurri alongside your favorite sides.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe and juicy results.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after grilling helps retain moisture and ensures tender meat.
- Chimichurri Prep: Make the sauce ahead of time to let the flavors develop and meld together.
- Grill Marks Matter: Don't move the chicken around too much to achieve those beautiful, professional-looking grill marks.
- Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to adjust the chimichurri by adding more garlic, vinegar, or herbs to suit your taste preferences.
- Oil Your Grill Grates: Prevent sticking by lightly oiling the grates before placing the chicken.
- Consistent Thickness: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before grilling to ensure uniform cooking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 95mg
