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
Scale
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
