Easy Basil Lime Chicken 🐔🌿 - Fresh & Flavorful
This Basil Lime Chicken is bursting with bright, herbaceous flavor. A tangy marinade of fresh basil, lime juice, garlic, and olive oil transforms simple chicken into a juicy, aromatic dish that’s perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing. Pair it with rice, a crisp salad, or grilled veggies for a fresh and satisfying meal.
Equipment
- - Blender or food processor
- - Mixing bowl
- - Grill, grill pan, or skillet
- - Tongs
- - Meat Thermometer (optional)
Ingredients
- - 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- - 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves packed
- - 2 tbsp olive oil
- - Juice and zest of 2 limes
- - 2 cloves garlic
- - 1 tsp honey or maple syrup optional, for balance
- - 1/2 tsp salt
- - 1/4 tsp black pepper
- - Pinch of red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- In a blender or food processor, combine basil, lime juice and zest, olive oil, garlic, honey, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Blend until smooth.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken in a bowl or zip-top bag. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours in the fridge.
- Preheat grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove chicken from marinade and cook 6–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F).
- Let rest 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve with lime wedges and extra fresh basil if desired.