Basil and Garlic-Slathered Chicken Breasts

By rsink

This is one of my daughter's favorite way to eat chicken! It's a great way to use that fresh basil in your herb garden.

Ingredients

• 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• olive oil, to taste (+ additional for grill)
• few drops lemon juice, optional
• 4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves

Details

Preparation time 20mins
Cooking time 30mins

Preparation

Step 1

In a food processor or a mortar, process or mash the garlic together with the salt. Add the basil and pepper and continue to mix until well combined. Add just enough oil to make a paste. If desired, add a few drops of lemon juice. Set aside.

Pat the chicken dry. Place the chicken between 2 sheets of wax paper or plastic wrap and, using your hand, a skillet or a rolling pin, gently flatten it to an even thickness of about 1/2". Transfer to a resealable plastic bag or a plate, add the basil paste and shake or smear to coat the chicken evenly.

Preheat the grill or place a grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the rack or pan.

Grill the chicken, turning once, just until cooked through, 3-5 minutes per side. Serve hot.