Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe
If you’re dreaming of a dinner that’s bright, fresh, and absolutely bursting with flavor, this Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe is about to become your new go-to! Picture juicy chicken, golden and sizzling, bathed in a lemony, garlicky sauce that’s lifted even higher with a shower of fresh basil. It’s a dish that feels special enough for company but is so simple, you’ll want to make it any night of the week. Trust me, once you’ve tasted this zesty, herby creation, you’ll understand why the Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe is a star in my kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe is in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a starring role in creating a dish that’s vibrant, aromatic, and full of color. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need and why these elements matter.
- Chicken (1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless breasts or thighs): The canvas for all our bright, tangy flavors—choose breasts for leaner meat, or thighs for extra juiciness.
- Olive Oil (3 tablespoons, divided): This gives the marinade body and helps achieve that beautiful golden sear.
- Lemon (juice and zest of 2): Nothing beats the punchy freshness of real lemon, which infuses both the chicken and sauce with a sunny zing.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Garlic brings warmth and depth, making every bite irresistible.
- Chicken Broth (1/2 cup): Used to deglaze the pan, it soaks up all the savory browned bits, making a luscious sauce.
- Fresh Basil (1/4 cup, chopped): The hero herb! Basil adds a sweet, peppery note that brightens the whole dish.
- Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon): Earthy and aromatic, oregano gives a subtle Mediterranean flair.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for enhancing all those fresh flavors.
- Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds just the right touch of mild heat.
- Lemon Slices (for garnish): Not just pretty—these add a pop of color and a final hit of citrus aroma.
How to Make Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
If you’re using chicken breasts, start by pounding them to an even thickness. This not only helps them cook more evenly but also gives you that irresistible, juicy texture. Lay the chicken between two pieces of plastic wrap and gently pound until uniform—it’s oddly satisfying, and totally worth it!
Step 2: Whisk Up the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the zest and juice of your lemons, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This marinade is the heart of the Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe—it’s zesty, fragrant, and so simple, yet packs incredible flavor into every bite.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Place your chicken in a shallow dish or a zip-top bag, then pour the marinade all over. Massage it in, making sure every piece is coated, and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours if you’ve got time). The longer it soaks, the more flavorful and tender your chicken will be!
Step 4: Sear to Golden Perfection
Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, let the excess drip off, and lay it in the pan. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through (165°F/74°C). The kitchen will smell amazing—the classic aroma of Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe in the making!
Step 5: Make the Basil-Lemon Sauce
Set the chicken aside, then pour the chicken broth into your skillet. Scrape up all those golden bits—they’re flavor gold! Let it simmer for about 2 minutes, then stir in your chopped basil. The sauce transforms into a fragrant, silky finish that ties everything together.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the basil-lemon sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh lemon slices for an extra pop of freshness. Serve warm, and get ready for rave reviews—this Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
How to Serve Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A final flourish of fresh basil and a few artfully arranged lemon slices do more than just look pretty—they heighten the aroma and promise that tangy, herby punch in every bite. If you’re feeling extra, a sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving will really wake up the whole plate!
Side Dishes
The Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe shines alongside fluffy rice, your favorite pasta, or simply some roasted or grilled vegetables. The sauce loves to mingle with a bed of orzo or a pile of garlicky green beans. For a heartier meal, pair with creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp garden salad.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, slice the chicken and fan it over a mound of rice, drizzle with sauce, and finish with basil ribbons and lemon wheels. Or, try serving it family-style on a big platter with a rainbow of roasted veggies—the vibrant colors and zingy aroma always wow guests!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any extra Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious the next day—perfect for lunchboxes or quick dinners!
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken (without the garnishes) for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before sealing tightly. While the basil sauce may lose a bit of its brightness, the chicken itself reheats beautifully and stays juicy.
Reheating
To reheat, let the chicken thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist, or microwave in short bursts. Add a few fresh basil leaves and a squeeze of lemon to revive that just-cooked flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in the Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe. They’re extra juicy and full of flavor, so feel free to swap them in for a slightly richer dish.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate for at least 30 minutes to let those flavors soak in, but if you have time, up to 4 hours will make the chicken even more tender and flavorful. Just don’t go overnight, as too much acid can toughen the meat.
Can I make the Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe dairy-free?
Yes! The basic recipe is naturally dairy-free. Just skip the optional cream at the end if you want to keep it that way. The sauce is still luscious and full of flavor without it.
What can I use instead of fresh basil?
If you don’t have fresh basil, try a smaller amount of dried basil or swap in fresh parsley for a different herbal note. Fresh herbs are best for that signature aroma, but don’t let it stop you from making the recipe!
Is the Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as written, this recipe is completely gluten-free. Just double-check your chicken broth and any sides you serve to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a meal that feels fancy yet fits into a busy weeknight, give the Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe a try. Its bright, zesty flavors and easy prep make it a favorite in my home—I can’t wait for you to taste how simple and delicious this classic can be!
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Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Lemon Basil Chicken is a bright, flavorful, and easy-to-make main course featuring juicy chicken breasts or thighs marinated in lemon juice, fresh basil, garlic, and herbs. Pan-seared to golden perfection and finished with a savory lemon-basil sauce, it makes a perfect light yet satisfying meal. Serve it with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a delicious Mediterranean-inspired dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Juice and zest of 2 lemons
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce and Garnish
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness if using breasts to ensure uniform cooking. This helps the chicken cook evenly and remain tender.
- Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in a shallow dish or resealable bag and pour the marinade over it. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours, allowing the flavors to infuse the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and cook the chicken for 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through to 165°F (74°C).
- Make the Sauce: Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Deglaze the skillet by adding the chicken broth and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add Basil and Combine: Stir the chopped fresh basil into the sauce. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top to coat evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with lemon slices and serve the lemon basil chicken warm with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Pairs well with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- For extra flavor, try grilling the chicken instead of pan-searing it.
- To make a creamier sauce, stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream at the end of cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes to 4 hours marinating)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, Marinating
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
