Introduction: Can a Fresh, Flavorful Dinner Be Ready in Just 25 Minutes?
Craving a light, summery meal that’s bursting with fresh basil, tangy balsamic, and juicy grilled chicken and tomatoes? The Grilled Basil Chicken and Tomatoes recipe is your answer! This dish combines tender chicken breasts and sweet plum tomatoes, marinated in a vibrant basil-balsamic blend, for a healthy, restaurant-quality meal. Wondering how to create this delicious dish at home in under 30 minutes (plus marinating time) for a perfect dinner for four? Follow along, and I’ll guide you through every step to make this flavorful, family-friendly meal that’s ideal for summer evenings, weeknight dinners, or impressing guests!
Overview: Why This Recipe Rocks
The Grilled Basil Chicken and Tomatoes is a quick, healthy dish that captures the essence of summer with its fresh ingredients and bold flavors. It’s simple, elegant, and perfect for grilling season. Here’s why it’s a standout:
- Time Requirement: About 25 minutes total (15 minutes prep, 10 minutes cooking, plus 1 hour marinating).
- Difficulty Level: Easy! If you can blend a marinade and grill, you’re set.
- Why It’s Awesome: This dish is budget-friendly, uses fresh, simple ingredients, and delivers vibrant Mediterranean-inspired flavors. It’s versatile (swap herbs or veggies to your taste), serves 4 perfectly, and is ideal for healthy dinners, barbecues, or meal prep. Plus, it’s grilled, so cleanup is minimal!
With its colorful tomatoes and fragrant basil marinade, this dish is as beautiful as it is delicious. Let’s get grilling!
Essential Ingredients
To make Grilled Basil Chicken and Tomatoes for 4 servings, you’ll need these key ingredients. Each one adds a layer of flavor or texture to this fresh dish:
- Balsamic Vinegar (¾ cup): Provides a tangy, slightly sweet base for the marinade.
- Fresh Basil Leaves (¼ cup, tightly packed): Infuses a fragrant, herbaceous flavor.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Adds richness and helps the marinade cling to the chicken.
- Garlic Clove (1, minced): Brings a warm, savory depth.
- Salt (½ tsp): Enhances all the flavors.
- Plum Tomatoes (8): Sweet, firm tomatoes that grill beautifully.
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Halves (4, 4 oz each): Lean, tender protein that’s the star of the dish.
Substitutions and Variations:
- Chicken: Swap with chicken thighs, pork chops, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different tang.
- Basil: Replace with fresh oregano, thyme, or a mix of Italian herbs.
- Tomatoes: Try cherry tomatoes, Roma tomatoes, or zucchini slices for grilling.
- Olive Oil: Substitute with avocado oil or melted butter for a richer flavor.
- Add-Ons: Add a sprinkle of feta cheese, a drizzle of honey, or grilled bell peppers for extra flavor.
Why These Ingredients Matter: The chicken provides lean protein, while the tomatoes and basil add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. The balsamic marinade creates a bold, tangy flavor, making this a healthy, low-carb meal that’s both satisfying and fresh.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s make Grilled Basil Chicken and Tomatoes step by step. It’s so easy, you’ll feel like a grill master in no time!
Step 1: Make the Marinade
- In a blender, combine ¾ cup balsamic vinegar, ¼ cup tightly packed fresh basil leaves, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 minced garlic clove, and ½ tsp salt.
- Cut 4 plum tomatoes into quarters and add to the blender.
- Blend until smooth, about 30 seconds.
Tip: Scrape down the blender sides to ensure a smooth marinade. If you don’t have a blender, finely chop the tomatoes and basil and whisk with the other ingredients.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, combine 4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (4 oz each) with ⅔ cup of the marinade.
- Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour, turning occasionally to coat evenly.
- Reserve the remaining marinade for serving.
- Halve the remaining 4 plum tomatoes for grilling.
Tip: Don’t marinate longer than 2 hours, as the vinegar can make the chicken too soft.
Step 3: Preheat and Prep the Grill
- Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 375°F) and oil the grill rack to prevent sticking.
- Drain the chicken, discarding the used marinade.
Tip: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels for better grill marks and less sticking.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken and Tomatoes
- Place the chicken on the oiled grill rack over medium heat. Grill, covered, for 4-6 minutes per side until a thermometer reads 165°F.
- Place the halved plum tomatoes on the grill, cut side down, and grill, covered, for 2-4 minutes per side until lightly browned and tender.
Tip: Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness, and avoid overcooking the tomatoes to keep their shape.
Step 5: Serve
- Arrange the grilled chicken and tomatoes on plates or a serving platter.
- Drizzle or serve with the reserved marinade on the side for extra flavor.
- Serve immediately.
Tip: Slice the chicken before serving for a fancier presentation, and spoon the marinade generously over both chicken and tomatoes.
Assembly: Serving the Perfect Dish
Your Grilled Basil Chicken and Tomatoes is ready to shine! Here’s how to make it look as vibrant as it tastes:
- Serving: Place a grilled chicken breast on each plate with 2-4 grilled tomato halves alongside. Drizzle with reserved marinade or serve it in a small bowl for dipping.
- Presentation Tips:
- Garnish with a few fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper for a pop of color.
- Serve on white or rustic plates to highlight the vibrant tomatoes and grill marks.
- Arrange tomatoes in a fan shape for an elegant look.
- Serving Ideas: Pair with a quinoa salad, grilled asparagus, or garlic bread. A glass of chilled rosé, sparkling water with lemon, or a light white wine like Pinot Grigio complements the fresh, tangy flavors.
Pro Tip: For a special touch, sprinkle a little crumbled feta or goat cheese over the tomatoes for a creamy, tangy contrast.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This Grilled Basil Chicken and Tomatoes is best fresh, but you can store leftovers or prep components ahead. Here’s how to keep it tasty:
- Storage:
- Store leftover chicken and tomatoes separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Keep reserved marinade in a separate container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Freezing:
- Freeze cooked chicken (without tomatoes or marinade) in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Tomatoes and marinade don’t freeze well due to texture changes, so make them fresh.
- Reheating:
- Reheat chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water for 5-7 minutes to keep it juicy, or in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes.
- Reheat tomatoes briefly in a skillet or microwave for 1 minute to warm through.
- Make-Ahead Tips:
- Make the marinade up to 2 days ahead and store in the fridge.
- Marinate the chicken up to 1 hour before grilling, or prep it in the morning and refrigerate.
- Slice tomatoes for grilling just before cooking to keep them fresh.
Tip: Drizzle fresh marinade over reheated leftovers to revive the vibrant flavors.
Recipe Variations
The Grilled Basil Chicken and Tomatoes is super versatile. Here are some fun ways to mix it up:
- Spicy Kick: Add ¼ tsp red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
- Herb Twist: Swap basil for fresh oregano, cilantro, or a mix of Italian herbs.
- Veggie Boost: Grill zucchini, bell peppers, or red onions alongside the tomatoes.
- Vegetarian: Swap chicken for tofu steaks, portobello mushrooms, or eggplant slices.
- Sweet Touch: Add 1 tsp honey or maple syrup to the marinade for a sweeter profile.
- Cheese Topping: Sprinkle crumbled feta, goat cheese, or Parmesan over the finished dish.
Mix and match to suit your taste or pantry staples!
Conclusion: A Fresh, Summery Classic
The Grilled Basil Chicken and Tomatoes is a quick, healthy meal that brings vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired flavors to your table in just 25 minutes (plus marinating time). With juicy grilled chicken, sweet-tart tomatoes, and a fragrant basil-balsamic marinade, it’s a dish that’s perfect for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or impressing guests. Try it as is or add your own spin—maybe some extra veggies or spice? Share your creations with us! Fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and enjoy every fresh, delicious bite!
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Grilled Basil Chicken and Tomatoes
Description
Craving a light, summery meal that’s bursting with fresh basil, tangy balsamic, and juicy grilled chicken and tomatoes? The Grilled Basil Chicken and Tomatoes recipe is your answer! This dish combines tender chicken breasts and sweet plum tomatoes, marinated in a vibrant basil-balsamic blend, for a healthy, restaurant-quality meal
Ingredients
To make Grilled Basil Chicken and Tomatoes for 4 servings, you’ll need these key ingredients. Each one adds a layer of flavor or texture to this fresh dish:
- Balsamic Vinegar (¾ cup): Provides a tangy, slightly sweet base for the marinade.
- Fresh Basil Leaves (¼ cup, tightly packed): Infuses a fragrant, herbaceous flavor.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Adds richness and helps the marinade cling to the chicken.
- Garlic Clove (1, minced): Brings a warm, savory depth.
- Salt (½ tsp): Enhances all the flavors.
- Plum Tomatoes (8): Sweet, firm tomatoes that grill beautifully.
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Halves (4, 4 oz each): Lean, tender protein that’s the star of the dish.
Substitutions and Variations:
- Chicken: Swap with chicken thighs, pork chops, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different tang.
- Basil: Replace with fresh oregano, thyme, or a mix of Italian herbs.
- Tomatoes: Try cherry tomatoes, Roma tomatoes, or zucchini slices for grilling.
- Olive Oil: Substitute with avocado oil or melted butter for a richer flavor.
- Add-Ons: Add a sprinkle of feta cheese, a drizzle of honey, or grilled bell peppers for extra flavor.
Why These Ingredients Matter: The chicken provides lean protein, while the tomatoes and basil add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. The balsamic marinade creates a bold, tangy flavor, making this a healthy, low-carb meal that’s both satisfying and fresh
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Marinade
- In a blender, combine ¾ cup balsamic vinegar, ¼ cup tightly packed fresh basil leaves, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 minced garlic clove, and ½ tsp salt.
- Cut 4 plum tomatoes into quarters and add to the blender.
- Blend until smooth, about 30 seconds.
Tip: Scrape down the blender sides to ensure a smooth marinade. If you don’t have a blender, finely chop the tomatoes and basil and whisk with the other ingredients.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, combine 4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (4 oz each) with ⅔ cup of the marinade.
- Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour, turning occasionally to coat evenly.
- Reserve the remaining marinade for serving.
- Halve the remaining 4 plum tomatoes for grilling.
Tip: Don’t marinate longer than 2 hours, as the vinegar can make the chicken too soft.
Step 3: Preheat and Prep the Grill
- Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 375°F) and oil the grill rack to prevent sticking.
- Drain the chicken, discarding the used marinade.
Tip: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels for better grill marks and less sticking.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken and Tomatoes
- Place the chicken on the oiled grill rack over medium heat. Grill, covered, for 4-6 minutes per side until a thermometer reads 165°F.
- Place the halved plum tomatoes on the grill, cut side down, and grill, covered, for 2-4 minutes per side until lightly browned and tender.
Tip: Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness, and avoid overcooking the tomatoes to keep their shape.
Step 5: Serve
- Arrange the grilled chicken and tomatoes on plates or a serving platter.
- Drizzle or serve with the reserved marinade on the side for extra flavor.
- Serve immediately.
Tip: Slice the chicken before serving for a fancier presentation, and spoon the marinade generously over both chicken and tomatoes.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! The recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check that your balsamic vinegar and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
2. How can I make it vegetarian?
Swap chicken for tofu, portobello mushrooms, or eggplant slices. Marinate and grill as directed.
3. What are the health benefits of this dish?
This dish offers lean protein from chicken, fiber and vitamins from tomatoes and basil, and healthy fats from olive oil. It’s a low-carb, nutrient-rich meal perfect for a balanced diet.
4. Can I cook this indoors?
Yes! Use a grill pan or skillet over medium heat for the chicken (4-6 minutes per side) and tomatoes (2-4 minutes per side). Or broil 4 inches from heat, flipping halfway.
5. How do I keep the chicken juicy?
Marinate for no more than 2 hours, grill to 165°F, and let rest for 3 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
6. What type of tomatoes work best?
Plum (Roma) tomatoes are ideal for their firm texture and sweet-tart flavor. Cherry or grape tomatoes can work but may cook faster.
7. How long does it take to make this dish?
Prep takes about 15 minutes (making marinade and prepping ingredients), cooking takes 10 minutes, and marinating takes 1 hour, so active time is about 25 minutes.
8. Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Double all ingredients and grill in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Ensure enough marinade to coat all chicken and tomatoes.