Get ready to transform your ordinary chicken dinner into a mouthwatering culinary masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! This Lemon Basil Chicken recipe is not just a meal, it's a flavor explosion that combines the bright, tangy notes of fresh lemon with the aromatic richness of basil, creating a dish that's both elegant and incredibly easy to prepare. In just 30 minutes, you'll be serving up a restaurant-worthy meal that looks impressive but requires minimal cooking skills.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 lemon (juiced)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil (chopped)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 chicken breasts, 1 lemon, 1/2 cup of fresh basil, 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 cloves of garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat your skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add the olive oil and allow it to warm up for about 1-2 minutes.
- While the oil is heating, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance the flavor.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the lemon basil sauce. In a small bowl, combine the juice of 1 lemon, chopped fresh basil, and minced garlic. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a serving platter. Keep it warm by covering it loosely with aluminum foil.
- In the same skillet, pour in the lemon basil sauce mixture. Cook over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to warm up and the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally.
- Once the sauce is heated, pour it over the chicken breasts on the serving platter. Ensure each piece is generously coated with the sauce.
- Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately with your choice of side dishes, such as pasta, rice, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to guarantee food safety while maintaining juicy meat.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh basil and freshly squeezed lemon juice for the most vibrant flavor profile. Avoid bottled lemon juice if possible.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook chicken breasts in batches if needed to ensure they brown nicely and cook evenly.
- Let the Chicken Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before adding the sauce. This helps retain the meat's juiciness.
- Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to add a splash of white wine or a touch of honey to the lemon basil sauce for extra depth of flavor.
- Prep Ahead: You can marinate the chicken in the lemon basil mixture for 30 minutes before cooking to enhance the flavor even more.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 95mg
