Name: Lemon Basil Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water

A bright and flavorful chicken dish featuring zesty lemon and fresh basil, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

Juice and zest of 1 lemon

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

Place the chicken in the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Remove the skillet from heat. Pour lemon juice, lemon zest, chicken broth, and chopped basil over the chicken.

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Remove from oven and spoon the pan juices over the chicken before serving. Garnish with extra fresh basil if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time is about 10 minutes, and the cooking time is approximately 25 minutes, making the total time roughly 35 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes like to switch things up by adding cherry tomatoes to the skillet before baking. They roast beautifully alongside the chicken and add a sweet, juicy contrast. Another favorite variation is using lemon thyme instead of basil for a different herbal flavor. For a creamier texture, stirring in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk after baking can turn it into a rich sauce. I’ve also tried swapping chicken broth for white wine to deepen the flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I prefer gently warming the chicken in a skillet over medium-low heat or using the oven to keep it tender and avoid drying it out. Microwave reheating works in a pinch but can sometimes make the chicken less juicy.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, but you’ll need to increase the baking time to ensure the chicken is cooked through. Bone-in breasts typically take about 25-30 minutes in the oven after searing.

Can I prepare this recipe without fresh basil?

If fresh basil isn’t available, you can substitute with 1 tablespoon of dried basil, but add it earlier during cooking to release its flavor fully.

Is red pepper flakes necessary?

The red pepper flakes are optional and add a nice mild heat, but you can skip them if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just make sure your chicken broth is labeled gluten-free.

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking?

Yes, you can grill the chicken after searing it for a nice smoky flavor. Just marinate it briefly with lemon, garlic, and basil before grilling.

Conclusion

I find this Lemon Basil Chicken to be a fresh, easy, and versatile dish that never disappoints. The bright lemon flavor combined with the aromatic basil makes every meal feel light and satisfying. It’s a great recipe for those nights when I want something healthy without sacrificing flavor or effort. Whether served with a side of roasted vegetables, over pasta, or with a crisp salad, this chicken is sure to become a favorite in my recipe rotation.

Lemon Basil Chicken