Grilled Chicken with Basil Sauce – The Ultimate Summer Grilling Recipe
When the weather warms up, it’s time to fire up the grill, and nothing says summer like the smoky aroma of perfectly grilled chicken. If you’re looking for a grilling recipe for summer or planning the ultimate Memorial Day grilling menu, this Grilled Chicken with Basil Sauce is exactly what you need. It’s light, fresh, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to impress your guests.
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Chicken Recipe
This isn’t your average grilled chicken. What sets this dish apart is the vibrant homemade basil sauce, a fresh, herbaceous blend that brings the perfect balance of brightness and depth to every bite. Paired with juicy, tender chicken breasts, this sauce takes your summer grilling game to the next level.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, preparing a family dinner, or looking for a healthy grilled chicken recipe, this one checks all the boxes.
Perfect for Memorial Day Weekend
Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial kickoff to summer, and that means it’s time to grill! This dish is festive enough for a holiday celebration, yet simple enough to throw together any night of the week. If you’re on the hunt for an easy but impressive Memorial Day grilling recipe, look no further.
Pair it with grilled corn, a crisp salad, or even some lemony potatoes, and you’ve got a spread that everyone will remember.
Tips for Grilling Chicken Like a Pro
- Marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes to ensure tenderness and flavor.
- Preheat the grill and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Use a meat thermometer, grill until the internal temperature reaches 165°F for perfect doneness.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
Make It Your Own
You can easily customize this grilled chicken with basil sauce by adding grilled vegetables, using the basil sauce as a salad dressing, or serving it with pasta or quinoa for a more filling meal.
Pin It, Share It, Grill It!
Whether you’re planning a cookout or just want a new go-to grilled chicken recipe, this one delivers on all fronts: flavor, ease, and summer vibes. Bookmark this page, share it with your fellow foodies, and let your grill do the talking.
🔥 Ready to impress at your next summer BBQ? This Grilled Chicken with Basil Sauce is your new secret weapon.
Grilled Chicken with Basil Sauce
Ingredients
- Grilled Chicken:
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1 fresh lemon, juiced
- ½ fresh orange, juiced
- 4 large cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano leaves
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- fresh lemon wedges, for serving
- Basil Sauce:
- ½ shallot, chopped
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, stems removed
- 1 clove garlic
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon caper brine, (optional)
- pinch red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ⅓ cup olive oil
Instructions
- For the marinade, in a large bowl whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, lemon juice, orange juice, garlic, Dijon, oregano, salt, paprika, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and marinate for 1-2 hours in the fridge, if time allows.
- Preheat grill to 350°F. (medium high heat), and lightly oil the grill grates. Place the chicken on the grates. Let the chicken char for 1 minute, and then immediately reduce the heat to medium low. Grill the chicken for approximately 15 to 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, turning every 5-7 minutes.
- Meanwhile, to make the basil sauce, combine all the ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Season to taste.
- Transfer the chicken to a platter, drizzle with basil sauce all over, and garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve with fresh lemon wedges. Enjoy!
