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blackened chicken alfredo recipe
Ben Carraoli

Lemon Basil Chicken Cutlets

This Lemon Basil Chicken is a light, fresh, and flavorful dish that combines the zest of lemon with the aromatic taste of basil. Marinating the chicken with lemon juice, pesto, and fresh basil ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Perfect for a summer dinner or a family BBQ, this grilled chicken will definitely impress!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 16 minutes
Total Time 26 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Calories: 295
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice adds a tangy bright flavor that works perfectly with the rich basil pesto and grilled chicken.
  • 2 tablespoons pesto: Pesto brings in a herbaceous garlicky punch that blends beautifully with the lemon juice and olive oil.
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil: Olive oil helps in marinating the chicken providing moisture and richness, while allowing the flavors to absorb.
  • 1 heaping tablespoon chopped basil: Fresh basil enhances the flavor profile and adds a fragrant green note to the marinade.
  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: Chicken breasts are the lean protein choice for this recipe ensuring a tender and juicy grilled chicken.

Method
 

  1. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This helps to enhance the natural flavor of the chicken. Next, place the chicken in a resealable bag. In a small bowl or measuring cup, mix together the freshly squeezed lemon juice, pesto, olive oil, and chopped basil. This combination of ingredients will form a fresh and aromatic marinade that infuses the chicken with tons of flavor. Once the marinade is ready, pour it over the chicken in the bag, seal the bag, and massage the marinade into the chicken to ensure it is fully coated.
  2. Place the bag of marinated chicken in the refrigerator and let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or up to 3 hours if you have the time. This allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the lemon, basil, and pesto, making the grilled chicken much more flavorful. Don't skip this step as marinating the chicken ensures it stays juicy and tender while grilling.
  3. About 20-30 minutes before grilling, take the chicken out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly. Preheat your grill to 400°F, cleaning and oiling the grates to prevent sticking. Place the chicken on the grill and let it cook for 6-7 minutes on one side. Once it has grill marks, flip the chicken and continue grilling until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, which is the perfect temperature for juicy and cooked-through chicken.
  4. Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the chicken, keeping it moist and flavorful. Slice the chicken and serve it with your favorite side dishes. Enjoy the bright, herbaceous flavors of this delicious Lemon Basil Chicken!