When it comes to the world of BBQ and grilling, there are endless possibilities to explore. One such exciting combination is the pairing of grilled chicken marinated in a citrus - basil pesto with purple radicchio. This unique recipe not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers a visually appealing dish that is perfect for any gathering or a simple weeknight dinner.
Let's start with the star of the show - the chicken. Chicken is a versatile protein that can take on a variety of flavors. For this recipe, we'll be using a citrus - basil pesto as the marinade. To make the pesto, gather fresh basil leaves, which bring a fragrant and herbaceous note. The bright and tangy citrus, such as lemon or lime, adds a refreshing twist. Combine the basil leaves, the juice and zest of the citrus fruit, a handful of pine nuts for a bit of crunch, and some grated Parmesan cheese. Blend these ingredients together with a drizzle of olive oil until you get a smooth and creamy pesto.
Once the pesto is ready, it's time to marinate the chicken. Take boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs and make a few shallow cuts on the surface. This allows the marinade to penetrate deeper and infuse the chicken with more flavor. Place the chicken in a shallow dish and generously coat it with the citrus - basil pesto. Make sure to cover all sides of the chicken. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least an hour, or preferably overnight. This long marinating time ensures that the chicken absorbs all the wonderful flavors of the pesto.
While the chicken is marinating, it's a good time to prepare the purple radicchio. Purple radicchio is a beautiful and slightly bitter vegetable that adds a great contrast to the rich and flavorful chicken. Wash the radicchio thoroughly and cut it into wedges. You can leave the core intact as it helps hold the wedges together during grilling. Drizzle the radicchio wedges with a little bit of olive oil, sprinkle some salt and pepper, and set them aside.
Now, it's time to fire up the grill. Preheat the grill to medium - high heat. Once the grill is hot, carefully place the marinated chicken on the grates. Grill the chicken for about 6 - 8 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chicken. You'll know the chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear. As the chicken grills, you'll notice the wonderful aroma of the citrus - basil pesto filling the air.
After grilling the chicken, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, making it more tender and juicy. While the chicken is resting, place the purple radicchio wedges on the grill. Grill them for about 3 - 4 minutes per side, until they develop some char marks and start to wilt slightly. The grilling process helps to mellow out the bitterness of the radicchio and gives it a smoky flavor.
To serve, arrange the grilled chicken on a platter and place the grilled purple radicchio wedges alongside. You can drizzle a little extra of the citrus - basil pesto over the chicken and radicchio for an added burst of flavor. This dish can be served as a main course, accompanied by a simple side salad or some roasted potatoes. The combination of the tender, flavorful chicken and the slightly bitter, smoky radicchio creates a harmonious balance of flavors that is truly unforgettable.
In conclusion, this grilled chicken and purple radicchio recipe is a must - try for anyone who loves BBQ and grilling. It showcases the beauty of combining different ingredients to create a delicious and visually stunning dish. Whether you're a seasoned griller or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. So, fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the wonderful flavors of this zesty fusion.
