Pair the comforting and zesty Lemon Basil Chicken with "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" by Taylor Jenkins Reid, a book rich with nostalgia and intrigue, and a refreshing Basil Gin Fizz cocktail. This pairing highlights the vibrant, aromatic notes of the dish that mirror the vibrant life of Evelyn Hugo, with the cocktail adding a touch of effervescence to complement the dish. Together, they create an immersive dining and reading experience that's both refreshing and engaging.

Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon slices for garnish
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped basil, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that all pieces are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more intense flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill or a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Discard the marinade. Grill or pan-sear the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve: Transfer the chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and basil leaves. Serve immediately, and enjoy!
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo
A novel that follows the glamorous and scandalous life of Hollywood icon Evelyn Hugo as she recounts her life story to an unknown journalist.
The epic adventures Evelyn creates over the course of a lifetime will leave every reader mesmerized. This wildly addictive journey of a reclusive Hollywood starlet and her tumultuous Tinseltown journey comes with unexpected twists and the most satisfying of drama.
Discussion Questions
- What is the significance of Evelyn's hair color throughout different stages of her life?
- How does the novel reflect the challenges and sacrifices associated with fame and success?
- Discuss the evolution of the relationship between Evelyn Hugo and the journalist, Monique Grant.
- How are themes of love and betrayal explored through Evelyn's marriages?
- What role does identity play in the choices that Evelyn Hugo makes?
- How does the author use Evelyn's story to comment on the social norms of her time?
- What does the novel suggest about the nature of true love?
- In what ways does Evelyn Hugo embody or subvert the notion of a feminist icon?
- What impact does the revelation at the end have on your perception of the characters?
- How does Reid's portrayal of Evelyn cause readers to question the morals associated with her actions?
Authors:
Taylor Jenkins Reid
ISBN: 9781501161933
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Published Date: 2017-06-13
ISBN: 9781501161933
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Published Date: 2017-06-13
Basil Gin Fizz

A refreshing and bubbly cocktail that combines the aromatic notes of fresh basil with the crispness of gin and the zesty sparkle of lemon.
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 oz simple syrup
- 4 fresh basil leaves
- Club soda
Instructions
- Muddle the basil leaves in a shaker.
- Add gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake well.
- Strain into a highball glass filled with ice.
- Top with club soda and garnish with a basil leaf.