Description
Lemon Pesto Grilled Chicken is a fresh and flavorful main dish featuring juicy boneless, skinless chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of basil pesto, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. This Mediterranean-inspired recipe is perfect for summer cookouts or healthy weeknight dinners, offering a high-protein option that pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, pasta, or salads.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ⅓ cup basil pesto
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- Lemon slices (optional)
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together basil pesto, olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Coat each chicken breast evenly with the marinade, ensuring all surfaces are covered. Place the chicken in a sealed container or zip-top bag, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F, to prepare for cooking the chicken evenly and achieve a nice sear.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken breasts on the hot grill. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes on one side, then flip and grill for an additional 6 to 7 minutes on the other side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) ensuring the chicken is cooked through but remains juicy.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and moist meat.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the grilled chicken with fresh lemon slices and chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor before serving.
Notes
- Serve this dish alongside grilled asparagus, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Leftover grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For an extra smoky flavor, consider adding a light brush of extra pesto immediately after grilling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
