Name: Lemon Chicken Basil Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breasts ((2 chicken breasts)); 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 1/2 teaspoons honey; 1/2 cup basil ((loosely packed or 1 tablespoon dried)); 3 cloves garlic ((minced or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)); 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

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The vibrant flavors of the Lemon Chicken Basil Recipe make it an irresistible dish for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of zesty lemon, fresh basil, and tender chicken creates a mouthwatering experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up on a weeknight but elegant enough to serve at a special gathering. Let’s dive into how to bring this delicious dish to your table!

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

This Lemon Chicken Basil Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, the bright flavors of lemon and basil work harmoniously, creating a refreshing taste that is both light and satisfying. The honey adds a touch of sweetness that balances the acidity of the lemon, making each bite delightful. Moreover, it caters to different palates, as its flavor profile isn’t overly spicy or rich, allowing everyone to enjoy it. Lastly, the quick preparation and cooking time mean you can serve a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

What’s in the Bowl

To create this wonderful dish, you will need the following ingredients:

1 pound chicken breasts (2 chicken breasts)
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 1/2 teaspoons honey
1/2 cup loosely packed basil (or 1 tablespoon dried)
3 garlic cloves (minced or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon ground mustard
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Prep & Cook Tools

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following tools:

Mixing bowl – For marinating the chicken.
Whisk – To combine the marinade ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate measurements of ingredients.
Skillet or grill pan – To cook the chicken to perfection.
Meat thermometer – To ensure the chicken is cooked through.
Cutting board and knife – For prepping the chicken and herbs.

Stepwise Method: Lemon Chicken Basil Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, minced garlic (or garlic powder), onion powder, dried parsley, salt, pepper, dried oregano, ground mustard, and red pepper flakes. Whisk together until fully combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors. For best results, marinate for 2-4 hours.

Step 3: Heat the Skillet

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Drizzle a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Once the skillet is hot, remove the chicken from the marinade and place it in the pan. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 5: Add Fresh Basil

In the last minute of cooking, sprinkle the fresh basil over the chicken. This will infuse the dish with aromatic flavors.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it on a platter, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your Lemon Chicken Basil with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad!

Substitutions by Category

Chicken: Use turkey breasts or firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
Honey: Substitute with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different sweetness.
Basil: Fresh cilantro or parsley can be used if basil is unavailable.
Olive oil: Avocado oil or melted coconut oil can serve as alternatives.
Garlic: Garlic powder can replace fresh garlic in a pinch.

Errors to Dodge

Don’t skip the marination step! It’s crucial for flavor development.
Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
Be cautious with salt; adjust according to taste, especially if using salted ingredients.
Don’t forget to let the chicken rest before slicing; this helps retain its juices.

Shelf Life & Storage

To enjoy the Lemon Chicken Basil Recipe for days to come, follow these storage tips:

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through.

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Before You Go

Thank you for exploring this delightful Lemon Chicken Basil Recipe! It’s sure to become a favorite in your household, combining simplicity with vibrant flavors. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with family and friends; they’ll be eager to indulge in this delicious dish. Happy cooking!