Butter Basil Grilled Chicken

Butter Basil Grilled Chicken

One rainy day I paid a visit to the library in our building. Condo life has its advantages and disadvantages, but I do enjoy our library where residents donate books they have read. The selection changes often and there is always something intriguing to read. On my last visit, I found three books. One of which was a collection of recipes from the Palm Beach Junior League. Anxious to find something new to make for dinner, I started thumbing through the pages. Someone had bookmarked a recipe for Butter Basil Grilled Chicken, so I knew it had to be good. Plus, since we also have a community garden, I had access to all the fresh basil I needed. 

This recipe had me at butter to be honest. The dollop of herbed butter melting over the hot grilled chicken breast added savory flavoring. 

I had also prepared basmati rice to accompany the chicken by simply adding the softened butter mixture into the rice with lots of additional parmesan cheese. 

Below is my variation of the original recipe. I must also add that the leftover cold chicken breast sliced thinly served over a garden salad the next day was delicious. 

Ingredients 

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts 
• 1/3 cup butter melted
• ¼ cup fresh chopped basil 
• ½ cup butter softened
• 2 tablespoons minced basil 
• 1 tablespoon fresh grated parmesan cheese
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper 
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish 

Directions 

Combine 1/3 cup melted butter and ¼ cup chopped basil in a bowl and mix well. Brush the chicken breast with this mixture. Let rest and prepare the softened butter for topping. Add ½ cup softened butter, 2 tablespoons minced basil, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt & pepper in a small bowl. 

Grill the chicken breast over hot coals or grill approximately 8-10 minutes on each side. Baste often with the additional melted butter. To serve; generously top the grilled chicken with a large dollop of the butter mixture, and garnish with the fresh basil.