Lemon Basil Chicken

If you’re looking for a meal that’s fresh, vibrant, and full of flavor, look no further than this Lemon Basil Chicken! The zesty lemon pairs perfectly with the fragrant basil, creating a dish that’s bright, aromatic, and downright delicious. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or preparing something light and refreshing for a special occasion, this recipe checks all the boxes. The best part? It’s simple to make, but it looks and tastes like a dish you’d find in a fancy restaurant.

Trust me, this one’s going to become a staple in your dinner rotation—easy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying!

Why You’ll Love Lemon Basil Chicken

Fresh and Flavorful:

The combination of lemon and basil is simply unbeatable. The lemon brings a bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the chicken, while the basil adds an earthy, aromatic touch that makes every bite feel like a burst of summer.

Quick and Easy:

This recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes, so it’s perfect for those busy nights when you want something fresh and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen.

Healthy and Light:

It’s packed with lean protein and fresh herbs, making it a great option for anyone looking to eat healthy without sacrificing flavor. Plus, it’s gluten-free and low-carb, so it works for a variety of dietary needs.

Versatile:

Serve it on its own, over a bed of rice, or with a fresh salad for a light lunch or dinner. It also pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or pasta if you’re looking to make a more substantial meal.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this Lemon Basil Chicken:

For the Chicken:

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe, ensuring a tender, juicy texture. You can also use thighs if you prefer dark meat.
• Olive Oil: For cooking the chicken and adding richness to the dish.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic adds an aromatic depth to the chicken that complements the lemon and basil.
• Lemon Zest and Juice: Zesty lemon flavor that brightens up the entire dish. Make sure to zest the lemon before juicing it!
• Fresh Basil: The star of the dish—adds an herby, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with the lemon.
• Salt and Pepper: For seasoning the chicken to perfection.

For the Marinade (Optional):

• Olive Oil: If you choose to marinate the chicken, olive oil helps tenderize and infuse flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Adds acidity and helps the chicken soak up all those bright citrus flavors.
• Garlic Powder: For an extra boost of garlic flavor.
• Dried Oregano: A touch of Mediterranean flair, complementing the basil.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Here’s how to prepare your Lemon Basil Chicken:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, and dried oregano. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then coat them in the marinade. Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 15 minutes, or up to an hour, to allow the flavors to infuse. If you’re short on time, you can skip the marinating and move to the next step.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and golden brown on the outside. Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 3: Make the Lemon Basil Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, combine lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and minced garlic. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the pan and set it aside to rest.

Step 4: Combine the Flavors

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, and pour in the lemon-garlic mixture. Stir it around, scraping up any bits of chicken left in the pan. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Add the Chicken Back

Return the chicken to the pan, spooning the lemon garlic sauce over the top. Add the fresh basil, tearing it into pieces with your hands to release its fragrant oils. Let the chicken cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to soak in and the basil to wilt.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the chicken with the lemon basil sauce spooned over the top. Pair it with a side of rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. Garnish with additional fresh basil and lemon slices for a beautiful presentation.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 280
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 300mg
Total Carbohydrates: 6g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 38g
Vitamin A: 8%
Vitamin C: 40%
Calcium: 2%
Iron: 6%

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10-15 minutes (plus marinating time, optional)
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 25-35 minutes

How to Serve Lemon Basil Chicken

This Lemon Basil Chicken is versatile enough to be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas:

With a Side of Rice:

Serve it over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the delicious lemon basil sauce.

On a Salad:

For a light and fresh meal, slice the chicken and place it on top of a mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette dressing.

With Roasted Vegetables:

Pair the chicken with roasted vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers for a healthy and filling meal.

With Garlic Bread:

For a comforting and hearty meal, serve the chicken alongside some crispy garlic bread. The bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.

Additional Tips

Marinate for Extra Flavor:

If you have the time, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) to enhance the lemon and garlic flavors.

Add Heat:

If you love a little spice, feel free to add red pepper flakes to the sauce or season the chicken with chili powder for an extra kick.

Make It a One-Pan Meal:

To make clean-up easier, try cooking the chicken and vegetables in the same skillet. You can add your choice of veggies (such as cherry tomatoes, spinach, or bell peppers) and cook them alongside the chicken for a complete meal.

Store Leftovers:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A1: Yes, you can! Chicken thighs are juicier and have a richer flavor, but the cooking time will be slightly longer. Just make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A2: Yes, the chicken can be cooked ahead of time. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat it in the skillet with a little extra lemon juice or chicken broth to keep it moist.

Q3: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
A3: While fresh basil gives the best flavor, you can use dried basil if needed. Just use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh basil.

Q4: How can I make this recipe spicier?
A4: Add some red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick. You can also use hot sauce or chili powder if you prefer.

Q5: Can I use bottled lemon juice?
A5: Fresh lemon juice is ideal for this recipe as it’s much more vibrant, but bottled lemon juice will work in a pinch.

Q6: Can I grill the chicken instead of cooking it in a skillet?
A6: Absolutely! Grilling the chicken will add a smoky flavor that pairs well with the lemon and basil. Just make sure the chicken is cooked through, and brush the lemon-garlic sauce over it after grilling.

Q7: Can I add other herbs to this recipe?
A7: Yes, feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme, oregano, or parsley for different flavor profiles. Just be sure not to overpower the lemon and basil combo.

Q8: How can I make this dish more filling?
A8: You can serve this with a side of pasta, quinoa, or mashed potatoes to make it more filling.

Q9: How long will leftovers last?
A9: Leftovers will last in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.

Q10: Can I freeze this dish?
A10: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container and thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

This Lemon Basil Chicken is a fresh, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re serving it for a quick dinner or as part of a more elaborate meal, it’s sure to impress. With its bright, zesty flavors and tender chicken, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your home. So grab some lemons, fresh basil, and chicken, and get cooking—this dish is waiting to brighten up your day!

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