If you’re looking for a show-stopping dinner that’s vibrant, zesty, and absolutely packed with fresh flavor, you need to try this Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe. It delivers the perfect balance of juicy chicken, tangy citrus, and sweet, aromatic basil—all coming together in a skillet for a meal that feels both upscale and impossibly easy. This is one of those recipes that’s just as welcome on a lazy weeknight as it is at a dinner party, and after one bite, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe keeps things simple, focusing on high-impact ingredients that shine bright in every bite. Each one plays a starring role—whether it’s adding aroma, richness, brightness, or depth—so look for the freshest options you can find.

Chicken breasts or thighs: Choose whichever you prefer; breasts give a leaner result, while thighs are extra juicy and forgiving.
Olive oil: The backbone for searing and creating a gorgeous golden crust on the chicken.
Garlic: This aromatic favorite wakes up the pan and deepens the flavor of your sauce.
Fresh lemon juice: Brings that unmistakable brightness and tang, making each bite sing.
Lemon zest: Adds citrusy punch and aroma that takes the whole dish over the top.
Chicken broth: Lends savoriness and helps make the lush pan sauce that keeps the chicken soaking with flavor.
Fresh basil: The star herb in this recipe—adds a sweet, peppery aroma and beautiful green speckles throughout.
Salt and black pepper: Classic seasoning duo, crucial for bringing everything together.
Lemon slices and extra basil (optional): These make for breezy, eye-catching garnish if you’re feeling fancy.

How to Make Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Season and Prep Your Chicken

Start by patting your chicken pieces dry, then sprinkle both sides generously with salt and black pepper. This simple step is so important—it ensures the chicken is flavorful right through and sets the stage for a golden crust when it hits the skillet.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat up your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Once shimmering, add the chicken in a single layer. Don’t move it! Let it cook for 4–5 minutes per side, turning once, until beautifully golden and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and tent it with foil to keep warm.

Step 3: Build That Dreamy Sauce

Lower the heat to medium. Add minced garlic right into those flavorful drippings and stir just until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Now, pour in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth, then use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the lovely browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for about 3–4 minutes, reducing just a little so the flavors become perfectly concentrated.

Step 4: Add Basil and Return Chicken to Skillet

Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped basil. The smell is out-of-this-world! Return the chicken (and any juices) to the skillet, smothering it in all that vibrant sauce. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes to let everything meld and ensure the Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe is hot and ready for the table.

How to Serve Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Finish your Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe with extra basil and gorgeous, thinly sliced lemons. The pop of green and yellow is irresistible, and the added herbs on top give each plate a garden-fresh look and even more fragrance.

Side Dishes

This dish is incredible over a bed of fluffy white rice, steaming couscous, or buttery orzo. Roasted veggies like asparagus, broccolini, or baby carrots complement the zesty sauce and make your plate extra colorful. Crusty bread is never a bad idea for sopping up every last drop of sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

Try carving the cooked chicken into slices and fanning it over a platter, then spooning the basil-lemon sauce on top for family style. Or, if you’re going lunch-style, serve it over mixed greens and turn it into a warm, hearty salad. This Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe even works tucked into pita with crisp veggies for a summery sandwich.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, keep any leftover Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making for a winning lunch the next day!

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, place cooled chicken with a bit of sauce in a well-sealed freezer-safe container. It freezes nicely for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating so the chicken stays tender.

Reheating

Warm leftover chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to loosen it up. You can also microwave it (covered) in short bursts until hot, but gentle reheating is best so the chicken stays juicy.

FAQs

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh in the Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe?

Fresh basil is what really sets this recipe apart, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use 2 teaspoons dried basil. Just add it with the broth so it has time to rehydrate and release its aroma.

Is it better to use chicken breasts or thighs for this dish?

Both work beautifully! Breasts keep it lean and quick, while thighs are especially juicy and forgiving. Go with whichever cut you and your family prefer.

Can I make this Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe dairy free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally dairy free. Only add dairy if you opt for the creamy variation by stirring in heavy cream at the end—which is totally optional.

How do I know when my chicken is cooked through?

The best way is to use an instant-read thermometer: the thickest part should hit 165°F. If you don’t have one, just cut into the center—it should be opaque and the juices should run clear.

What can I do if my sauce is too tart?

If your sauce tastes too bold, stir in half a teaspoon of honey, a splash of cream, or a dab of butter to mellow it out. Everyone’s lemons pack a different punch, so adjust to your taste!

Final Thoughts

Gather some fresh basil and lemons and treat yourself to this Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe—it’s a total flavor bomb that’s easy enough for a busy night but special enough for company. I hope you love it as much as I do!

Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 23 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Lemon Basil Chicken recipe is a flavorful and aromatic dish that is quick and easy to prepare. Tender chicken cooked in a lemony basil sauce, perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken:

1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Sauce:

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
Salt and black pepper to taste
Lemon slices and extra basil for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Season the chicken: Season the chicken with salt and black pepper on both sides.
Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
Make the sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth. Simmer for 3–4 minutes. Stir in chopped basil and return the chicken to the skillet. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes.
Serve: Serve hot, garnished with lemon slices and extra basil if desired.

Notes

This dish pairs well with rice, couscous, or roasted vegetables.
For a creamy variation, stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired