Lemon Basil Chicken

Why You’ll Love Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe

This Lemon Basil Chicken  is the perfect balance of citrusy, herby, and savory flavors. The marinade is light and refreshing, allowing the natural taste of the chicken to shine, while the basil adds an aromatic, slightly peppery kick. It’s quick to prepare, and the ingredients are easy to find, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or weekend BBQs. Plus, the chicken is incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried basil)

• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for extra citrus flavor)

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

Directions

1. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped basil, honey (if using), lemon zest (if using), salt, and pepper to create the marinade.

2. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours, allowing the chicken to soak up the flavors.

3. Preheat your grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. If grilling, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess marinade.

5. Cook the chicken on the grill or in the skillet for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is fully cooked through.

6. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving.

7. Garnish with additional fresh basil or a lemon wedge if desired, and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes to 2 hours for marinating)

• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes

Variations

• Grilled Lemon Basil Chicken Skewers: Cut the chicken into chunks and skewer them with bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for a fun twist on the traditional grilled chicken.

• Add Spice: For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a small diced chili to the marinade.

• Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option with a slightly different texture.

• Baked Lemon Basil Chicken: If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the marinated chicken breasts for 25-30 minutes or until fully cooked.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but it will take longer to cook. Be sure to adjust the cooking time, and always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.

2. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?

Yes, you can substitute dried basil for fresh basil. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried basil for every 2 tablespoons of fresh basil.

3. How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. For a more intense flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours, but don’t go beyond that as the citrus can start to break down the chicken.

4. Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to add the chicken and marinate it just before cooking.

5. Can I make this recipe without lemon zest?

Yes, you can skip the lemon zest, but it adds an extra layer of citrus flavor that complements the marinade nicely. You can use lemon zest if you prefer a more pronounced lemon taste.

6. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can check this with a meat thermometer. The juices should also run clear when the chicken is pierced with a knife.

7. Can I cook this chicken on the stovetop instead of grilling?

Yes, you can cook the chicken in a skillet or grill pan. Heat the pan over medium-high heat, add a little oil, and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through.

8. Can I use this marinade for other proteins?

Yes, this marinade works great with fish, shrimp, or even pork. Just adjust the cooking time according to the protein you’re using.

9. Can I freeze this chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken. Simply place the chicken and marinade in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

10. Can I add other herbs to this recipe?

Yes, you can add other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the marinade for added flavor. Basil, however, is the star of the dish.

Conclusion

Lemon Basil Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The fresh lemon and basil marinade creates a zesty, aromatic flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with the tender chicken. Whether grilled, baked, or pan-seared, this dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a light dinner or meal prep. Serve it alongside your favorite vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete, satisfying meal.