Name: Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 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

Description

A bright and flavorful Lemon Basil Chicken recipe featuring tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts marinated and cooked with fresh lemon juice, zest, garlic, basil, and a touch of honey for a refreshing and easy-to-make meal perfect for weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Marinade & 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

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Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped basil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), salt, and pepper. Whisk the mixture thoroughly to blend all the flavors.
Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Ensure each breast is coated evenly. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes to absorb the flavors, or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator for a more intense taste.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of olive oil if needed. Remove chicken from marinade (discard leftover marinade) and place the breasts in the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist. Serve the chicken topped with extra fresh basil and a lemon wedge if desired.

Notes

For more flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is safely cooked without overcooking.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer the leftover marinade in a small pan for a few minutes before serving (only if it has not touched raw chicken).
Pair this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American