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This lemon basil chicken is a lively and tasty meal that's great when you're pressed for time but want something fresh and cozy. The zesty lemon and sweet basil blend into a sauce that turns plain chicken breasts into a dish that feels fancy without much effort.
We tried this after a last-minute dinner plan one night and totally loved it. The sauce has so much life, and it goes great with just about everything, making it a family favorite.
Ingredients
Instructions
I love how basil adds a bright touch here; it feels like a bit of sunshine on your plate and reminds me of my grandma’s herb garden filling her kitchen with summer smells.
Storage Tips
Ingredient Swaps
Serving Ideas
Adding chopped basil right at the end gives a fresh, herbal kick that brings the whole dish to life. It’s great with simple sides and makes a regular weeknight meal feel a little more special.
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → Which chicken cut is best?
Boneless chicken breasts cook fast and stay tender, but using bone-in thighs adds flavor if you give them more time to cook.
- → What’s the trick to thickening the lemon basil sauce?
Mix flour into melted butter first. This thickens the sauce into a nice smooth texture once liquids are added.
- → Can dried basil replace fresh basil?
Fresh basil brings bright, fresh notes. If using dried, toss it in earlier while cooking to get the most flavor out.
- → What sides go well with this dish?
Roasted veggies, pasta, or rice soak up the lemon basil sauce perfectly and balance the meal nicely.
- → How do I make the lemon flavor pop more?
Stir in extra lemon zest or squeeze a bit of lemon juice right before serving to brighten it up without being too strong.