This is one of those recipes where you can use either chicken or turkey breasts. So, whatever is convenient or available, go for it. The two main ingredients to this dish are basil and honey. Combined, they give a flavor texture that is a delight. Basil is a member of the mint family; and when paired with honey it makes a combination that is truly wonderful. And nothing could be simpler and easier to make, and delicious.

In Nuyorican cuisine we pair this dish with rice and, sometimes, pasta. This time around we did it with couscous, and it was great. That’s the beauty of this recipe: you can pair it with your favorite grain, or even mashed or boiled potatoes. The possibilities are endless, and you’re the boss.

BASIL HOENY ROASTED CHICKEN OR TURKEY

Ingredients:

4 chicken or turkey breasts
1 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and ground black pepper to taste
½ cup honey
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
3 tablespoons soy sauce
¼ cup orange juice
2 tablespoons fresh basil or 1 teaspoon dried

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
  2.  Lightly oil, salt and pepper chicken or turkey,
  3.  Place breasts on roasting pan or cookie sheet and bake for 15 minutes. Let me state that we prefer roasting in a cast iron, but any good roasting pan will do.
  4.  While the chicken or turkey is roasting, add all the other ingredients except basil in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer for 3 minutes.  Allow it to cool for a minute and add the basil.
  5. When the chicken or turkey comes out of the oven, brush with the honey glaze.
  6.  Turn oven down to 250 degrees and bake for 7 minutes or until meat reaches 160 degrees (using an oven meat thermometer). Allow breasts to rest for a few minutes before serving.
    Yield: 4-6 servings.