Description
Transform ordinary chicken into a flavorful dish with this classic basil chicken marinade made from fresh herbs and zesty ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup for sweetness
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a kick
Instructions
- Start by washing and drying the basil leaves thoroughly.
- In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Pulse until smooth.
- Once well blended, taste the marinade and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Optionally stir in honey or maple syrup for sweetness.
- Pour the marinade over your chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated.
- Cover the chicken and refrigerate. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally 2-4 hours.
- Preheat your grill, oven, or skillet. Cook chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, about 20-30 minutes.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Marinate overnight for deeper flavor. Can substitute chicken with tofu for a vegan option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Marinating
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg