Basil Grilled Chicken

prepared by and photo by Emily S. Downs

Quick. Easy. Delicious. Chicken entree in no time.

Ingredients:
3/4 tsp coarsely ground pepper
4 boneless chicken breast halves
1/3 cup butter (or margarine, softened)
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened
2 tbsp minced fresh basil
1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (or more if you love your cheese!)
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/8 tsp salt
1/8 tsp pepper
Fresh basil sprigs (for garnish)

Press 3/4 teaspoon pepper into meaty sides of chicken breast halves. Combine 1/3 cup melted butter and 1/4 cup chopped basil; stir well. Brush chicken lightly with melted butter mixture.

Combine 1/2 cup softened butter, 2 tablespoons basil, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Beat at low speed of an electric mixer until mixture is well blended and smooth. Transfer to a small serving bowl; set aside.

Grill chicken over medium heat 8 to 10 minutes on each side, basting frequently with remaining melted butter mixture.

Serve grilled chicken with basil-butter mixture. Garnish will fresh basil sprigs, if desired.