One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe

I absolutely love this One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe because it’s a perfect blend of fresh, zesty lemon and fragrant basil, all cooked up in a single skillet for minimal fuss and maximum flavor. When I first tried this, I was amazed at how the tangy lemon juice and aromatic herbs soaked into the tender chicken, making every bite bursting with freshness. It’s incredibly satisfying and perfect for busy weeknights or when you want an impressive meal without a ton of cleanup.

You’ll find that this recipe works beautifully when you want a quick yet elegant dinner that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Plus, the sauce comes together so simply – butter, garlic, chicken broth, and lemon juice meld into a luscious drizzle that you’ll want to pour over everything on your plate. Trust me, it’s a game-changer that’s worth adding to your go-to recipe list.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together seamlessly to create a juicy, flavorful chicken with a luscious sauce. When shopping, try to use fresh basil and good quality lemons – they really lift this dish.

• All-purpose flour: Helps create a light crust so the chicken stays juicy inside and golden outside.
• Lemon zest and juice: Adds bright citrus flavor; zest gives aromatic oils, and juice adds fresh tanginess.
• Dried thyme: Earthy herb that pairs beautifully with lemon and basil.
• Dried oregano: Adds an herbal depth that complements the thyme.
• Salt and ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
• Chicken breasts: Slice them in half lengthwise to ensure even cooking and quick turnaround.
• Olive oil: For searing chicken to a perfect golden brown.
• Butter: Adds richness and creates a silky sauce base.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a punch of aroma and flavor that’s simply irresistible.
• Chicken broth: Creates a flavorful pan sauce by lifting the browned bits from the skillet.
• Fresh basil leaves: Sliced thinly to finish the dish with a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor.

Variations

I love customizing this One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe depending on what’s in season or what my family is craving. Feel free to swap fresh herbs or add veggies right to the pan for an all-in-one meal.

• Add Veggies: I often toss in cherry tomatoes or spinach during the last few minutes – it adds color and nutrition effortlessly.
• Use Different Herbs: Sometimes, I swap basil for fresh parsley or tarragon for a different herbal twist that keeps the flavors exciting.
• Make it Spicy: Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the flour mixture gives the chicken a subtle, warming kick that my husband adores.
• Dairy-Free Option: I’ve replaced butter with coconut oil or extra olive oil for a dairy-free meal that still feels indulgent.

How to Make One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Coat the Chicken

Start by mixing the all-purpose flour with lemon zest, dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper in a large dish. I like to really toss the chicken breasts in this mixture so each piece is nicely coated – it locks in moisture and adds flavor. Shake off any excess flour to avoid a gummy crust when cooking.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken breasts. Cook them about 5 minutes per side until they develop a beautiful golden crust. Don’t rush this part – the golden brown bits are packed with flavor and set the stage for your sauce. Once cooked, remove the chicken and set aside on a plate to keep warm.

Step 3: Build the Lemon Basil Sauce

In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic, stirring as the butter melts so the garlic becomes fragrant – just be careful not to burn it! Next, pour in the lemon juice and chicken broth, scraping up those browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon. Let the sauce simmer just a few minutes until it thickens slightly, then remove from heat.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over each piece. Warm the chicken gently for about one minute to soak up all those delicious flavors. Finish by sprinkling the fresh, thinly sliced basil leaves and adding extra lemon slices for a sunny, vibrant presentation.

How to Serve One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

I like to garnish this dish simply but thoughtfully. A few extra lemon slices on top give it a fresh look, and a handful of fresh basil leaves scattered just before serving adds that beautiful herbaceous aroma and a pop of green. Sometimes, I sprinkle a little flaky sea salt to finish it off perfectly.

Side Dishes

My go-to sides with this recipe are light and fresh to keep the meal balanced. Steamed asparagus or sautéed green beans are wonderful, plus a side of fluffy jasmine rice or creamy mashed potatoes soaks up the delicious lemon basil sauce. On busy nights, I love pairing it with a simple arugula salad tossed in olive oil and lemon.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe over a bed of herb-infused quinoa or alongside roasted fingerling potatoes garnished with edible flowers. Arranging lemon slices and basil leaves artistically adds an elegant touch that makes guests think you spent hours in the kitchen, even when you haven’t.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge where they keep well for up to three days. The sauce helps the chicken stay moist, but I recommend separating the lemon slices if you want to avoid bitterness from the rind soaking in overnight.

Freezing

While I haven’t frozen this chicken often because it’s so quick to make fresh, it does freeze well in an airtight container. I’d suggest freezing without fresh basil and lemon slices, adding those only after reheating for fresh flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, I gently warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth to revive the sauce’s moisture. Microwaving works in a pinch, but reheating on the stove keeps the texture tender and avoids drying out the chicken.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe has earned a permanent spot on my rotation because it’s so easy, delicious, and impressive with little effort. It’s the kind of dish I recommend to friends who want to cook at home but don’t want to be stuck in the kitchen all night. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it again and again!

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