Honey Orange Basil Chicken

Honey Orange Basil Chicken Recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Honey Orange Basil Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of honey, the tanginess of orange juice, and the freshness of basil. This recipe is perfect for a summer barbecue or a weeknight dinner.

History

The combination of honey, orange, and basil in cooking has been around for centuries. These ingredients complement each other perfectly, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. This particular recipe puts a modern twist on a classic flavor combination.

Ingredients

0.25 cup of orange juice
0.25 cup of vegetable oil
2 tbsp of honey
2 tbsp of finely chopped fresh parsley
0.5 tsp of dried basil, or to taste
0.5 tsp of grated orange zest
0.5 tsp of salt
0.25 tsp of pepper
8 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves

How to prepare

In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the orange juice, oil, honey, parsley, basil, orange zest, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the bag, seal it, and let it marinate in the refrigerator overnight.
Preheat the grill to medium heat.
Lightly oil the grill grate. Place the chicken on the grill and discard the marinade.
Cook the chicken for 15 minutes, turning it once, or until the juices run clear.

Variations

Substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a different texture.
Add a splash of soy sauce for an extra umami flavor.
Use lime juice and cilantro instead of orange juice and basil for a different twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the chicken overnight for maximum flavor.

- Use fresh orange juice and zest for the best results.

- Adjust the amount of basil to suit your taste preferences.

- Grill the chicken over medium heat to ensure it cooks evenly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Honey Orange Basil Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling is the best cooking technique for this recipe, as it adds a smoky flavor to the chicken.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey.

- Substitute lemon juice for orange juice.

- Use fresh thyme or rosemary instead of basil.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for maximum flavor.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Honey Orange Basil Chicken with fresh basil leaves and orange slices for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Honey Orange Basil Chicken with a side of quinoa or brown rice for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Honey Orange Basil Chicken contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Honey Orange Basil Chicken contains approximately 8 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Honey Orange Basil Chicken contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Honey Orange Basil Chicken contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Honey Orange Basil Chicken is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and niacin.

Alergens

This recipe contains honey, which may be an allergen for some individuals.

Summary

Honey Orange Basil Chicken is a balanced meal that provides a good amount of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Honey Orange Basil Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its sweet and tangy flavors, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Honey Orange Basil Chicken. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret for our weekly cooking exchange. Margaret was known for her adventurous palate and her ability to whip up delicious dishes from scratch. That day, she greeted me with a mischievous smile and a twinkle in her eye.

"Betty, I have a special recipe to share with you today," Margaret said, her voice filled with excitement. "It's a unique twist on classic chicken, infused with the flavors of honey, orange, and fresh basil. I think you're going to love it!"

I couldn't wait to get started. Margaret handed me a neatly handwritten recipe card, detailing the ingredients and step-by-step instructions. As I read through the recipe, my mouth watered at the thought of the sweet and savory flavors coming together in perfect harmony.

Margaret guided me through the process, demonstrating how to marinate the chicken in a fragrant blend of honey, orange juice, and chopped basil. The scent of citrus and herbs filled the kitchen, making my stomach rumble with anticipation.

After marinating the chicken for a few hours, Margaret showed me how to sear the meat in a hot skillet until it was golden brown and caramelized. The kitchen was alive with the sizzle and pop of cooking chicken, and I couldn't help but smile at the thought of the delicious meal we were creating together.

Once the chicken was cooked through, Margaret drizzled it with a luscious sauce made from the pan drippings, honey, and freshly squeezed orange juice. The sauce bubbled and thickened, coating the chicken in a sticky glaze that shone like liquid gold.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, Margaret poured us each a glass of chilled white wine and raised her glass in a toast.

"To new recipes and old friends," she said, her eyes sparkling with joy.

We dug into the Honey Orange Basil Chicken with gusto, savoring each tender bite and reveling in the burst of flavors that exploded in our mouths. The sweet honey, tangy orange, and aromatic basil melded together in a symphony of taste that left us both speechless.

As we finished our meal, Margaret leaned back in her chair with a contented sigh.

"Isn't it amazing how food has the power to bring people together?" she mused. "Each recipe tells a story, a memory of the person who created it and the hands that lovingly prepared it. This recipe will always remind me of our friendship and the joy we share in cooking together."

I nodded in agreement, feeling grateful for the bond that Margaret and I had forged over the years through our shared love of food and cooking. The Honey Orange Basil Chicken would forever hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the day I discovered a new recipe and strengthened an old friendship.

As I look back on that sunny summer day, I can still taste the flavors of the Honey Orange Basil Chicken on my tongue and feel the warmth of Margaret's friendship in my heart. Cooking has a way of connecting us to each other and to the memories we hold dear, and I am grateful for the many recipes and stories that have enriched my life over the years.