Lemon Basil Grilled Chicken with Fresh Herb Sauce

Lemon Basil Grilled Chicken with Fresh Herb Sauce

Grilled chicken doesn’t have to be boring, and this recipe is proof of that. A simple lemon-and-fennel marinade keeps the chicken juicy, while a fresh basil dressing brings brightness and depth without weighing anything down. It’s the kind of dish that feels effortless but still tastes intentional.

What really makes this recipe shine is the balance. The chicken is lightly charred on the grill, seasoned just enough, and finished with a smooth basil sauce that’s vibrant and herb-forward. It’s perfect for warm evenings, meal prep, or when you want something clean and flavorful without overthinking dinner.

If you enjoy recipes like this—simple proteins paired with bold sauces—you might also like:

• Garlic Spinach & Mushroom Chicken Skillet
• Quick Honey Garlic Chicken & Broccoli Stir Fry
• Lightened-Up Kung Pao Chicken (Weeknight Style)
• If you want to switch things up, a spoonful of homemade basil pesto works beautifully here.
  

This grilled chicken is a great reminder that you don’t need a long ingredient list to get big flavor—just a few fresh elements used well.

Lemon Basil Grilled Chicken with Fresh Herb Sauce

502kcal

4 from 1 vote

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Total 30 minutes mins

This grilled chicken with basil dressing is fresh, bright, and packed withflavor. Chicken breasts are marinated in lemon, olive oil, and fennel seeds, then grilled until lightly charred and juicy. A smooth basil-garlic sauce adds a vibrant finish that makes this simple dish feel special.

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Servings 4

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Ingredients

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• ▢ ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• ▢ 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, plus 1/4 cup
• ▢ 1 1/2 teaspoons fennel seeds, coarsely crushed
• ▢ 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• ▢ 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ▢ 4 chicken breasts, 4 – 6 oz each
• ▢ 1 cup lightly packed fresh basil leaves
• ▢ 1 large garlic clove

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Instructions

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1. In a large resealable bag, whisk together ⅓ cup oil, 3 tablespoons lemon juice, fennel seeds, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken, seal the bag, and gently massage to coat. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 24 hours, turning occasionally.
2. While the chicken marinates, make the basil sauce. Add the basil, garlic, lemon zest, remaining lemon juice, salt, and pepper to a blender. Blend until smooth, then slowly stream in the remaining oil. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the excess. Grill until cooked through and lightly charred, about 8 minutes per side.
4. Transfer the chicken to plates, spoon the basil sauce over the top, and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories502kcalCarbohydrates13gProtein61gFat38g

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