If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bright, fresh flavors yet comes together in under 30 minutes, this Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe is an absolute winner. Tender chicken breasts are elevated by the zesty punch of lemon juice and the fragrant essence of fresh basil, creating a harmony of tangy and herbaceous notes that will have you reaching for seconds. This recipe is perfect for weeknights when you want something both simple and impressive on the table, and it’s guaranteed to become one of your new favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each playing a vital role in building the lively, delicious flavor profile and beautiful presentation of the dish. From the brightness of lemon to the aromatic punch of fresh basil, every item enhances the texture, color, and taste to make your Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe truly shine.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Provides a lean and tender protein base that soaks up all the wonderful flavors.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps to brown the chicken perfectly for a gorgeous crust.
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice: Brings a refreshing tang and a vibrant citrus brightness that wakes up the palate.
- 2 tsp lemon zest: Packs even more lemon flavor, enhancing the brightness without extra acidity.
- 3 tbsp fresh basil, chopped: Offers herbal sweetness and a fragrant pop of green freshness.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Adds depth and a mild pungency that complements the lemon beautifully.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Introduces a subtle tang and complexity to the marinade.
- 1 tbsp honey (optional): Balances the acidity with a gentle sweetness, rounding out the flavors.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Enhances all the flavors for a perfectly seasoned dish.
How to Make Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This mixture creates an irresistible marinade that infuses the chicken with tangy, sweet, and herbal notes, sealing in moisture and flavor as it works its magic.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Make sure each piece is fully coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes — or if you have time, up to an hour for even deeper flavor penetration.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil if needed. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. The key here is to let the chicken develop a beautiful sear without rushing to keep it tender and juicy.
Step 4: Add Basil
Just before finishing, toss the chopped fresh basil over the chicken while still in the pan. The basil lightly wilts, releasing its fragrant aroma and layering the flavor for that bright, herbal finish the Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe promises.
How to Serve Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
For an inviting presentation and an extra burst of flavor, garnish your Lemon Basil Chicken with additional fresh basil leaves and thin lemon slices. A sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil adds a lovely finishing touch that makes the dish look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides like garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. A light pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs or fluffy rice pilaf also work wonderfully, soaking up any leftover sauce and complementing the bright flavors of the chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion or to impress guests, serve the chicken over a bed of polenta or creamy risotto, garnished with edible flowers or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts. Alternatively, transform this into a fresh salad topping or slice the chicken for gourmet sandwiches packed with basil and citrusy zing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Lemon Basil Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the chicken separate from any salad dressings or side dishes to maintain its fresh texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked Lemon Basil Chicken, wrapped tightly in foil or stored in a freezer-safe container, for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve the delicious flavors and tender texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at a low temperature to prevent drying out the chicken. Adding a splash of water or broth to the pan will keep it moist. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can make the chicken tough.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a richer flavor and are often juicier, but adjust cooking time to ensure they reach a safe internal temperature without overcooking.
Is honey necessary in this Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe?
The honey is optional but highly recommended for balancing the tanginess of the lemon with a subtle sweetness. You can omit it if you prefer a more tart flavor or substitute with maple syrup.
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Yes, the marinade can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just add fresh basil when you’re ready to cook to keep the flavor bright and fresh.
What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
You can swap Dijon mustard for whole grain mustard or yellow mustard in a pinch. It will slightly change the flavor, but the dish will still be delicious.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part – the juices should run clear with no pink.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that’s both simple to make and impressive to serve. Its vibrant flavors and juicy, tender chicken make every bite feel like a little celebration. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a staple in your meal rotation — it’s just that good!
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Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A fresh and flavorful Lemon Basil Chicken recipe featuring tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts marinated and cooked with zesty lemon, aromatic basil, and a hint of garlic and mustard. Perfect for a quick, healthy dinner in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Marinade and Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (from about 1 lemon)
- 2 tsp lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
- 3 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped fresh basil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let them marinate for 10-15 minutes for best flavor absorption.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Cook the chicken breasts for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Spoon some of the pan juices and additional fresh basil over the chicken for garnish and extra flavor before serving.
Notes
- For added depth, marinate the chicken up to 2 hours in the fridge.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is properly cooked.
- The honey is optional but adds a nice balance to the lemon’s acidity.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or over a fresh salad.
