Thursday, August 19, 2010

GRILLED CHICKEN WITH CILANTRO PESTO

You will notice that I have used honey in this recipe, although not recommended for serious dieters. But I believe that honey is important to balance out the soy sauce. However, you can substitute it with a pinch of sugar, or use just about half a teaspoon of honey if your diet plan permits. Pine nuts can be difficult to find and a little expensive in India. You can use peanuts instead or just skip it altogether.  If you don’t have a grill, use a cast iron griddle or any griddle for that matter. Just be sure to cook over high heat.



Ingredients

For the chicken
  • Chicken breast: 4, skinless and boneless
  • Soy sauce: 4 tablespoons
  • Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Ginger: 1 inch stick, chopped
  • Garlic: 5-6 cloves, chopped
  • Honey: 2 teaspoons
  • Salt: to taste
  • Black pepper powder: to taste
For the pesto
  • Cilantro/Coriander leaves: 1 bunch
  • Garlic: 2 cloves
  • Salt: to taste
  • Black pepper powder: to taste
  • Lime juice: 2 tablespoons
  • Pine nuts (optional): 1 tablespoon
  • Olive oil: 1 tablespoon

Preparation

Put the chicken pieces in a glass bowl and add soy sauce, olive oil, ginger, garlic and honey and season with salt and pepper. Give a nice mix and set aside for half an hour.
For the pesto grind cilantro, garlic and pine nuts into a smooth paste. Add the lime juice and a little water if needed. Add olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Method

Heat a grill or a griddle and grease with some olive oil. Grill the chicken pieces for eight minutes on each side or till done. Drizzle some pesto and serve hot with Greek salad.
    

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