One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving a dinner that’s fresh, flavorful, and won’t have you elbow-deep in the sink afterward, this One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe is absolutely for you. I love this because it combines bright lemon notes with fragrant basil and tender chicken, all cooked in a single skillet for that unbeatable, homey flavor. It’s the kind of meal that comes together quickly on a busy weeknight but feels like you put in way more effort.

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how the simple ingredients created such a charming harmony of flavors. You’ll find that the lemon zest and juice bring brightness while the butter and garlic add richness—plus, cooking everything in one pan means less mess and maximum taste. It really is a perfect meal when you want something delicious, yet uncomplicated.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each part of this One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe is thoughtfully chosen to deliver flavor and texture harmony—plus a straightforward list that’s easy to shop for. When I pick ingredients, I always look for fresh basil and good quality chicken breasts to maximize taste.

• All-purpose flour: Helps create a light coating on the chicken that crisps up beautifully in the pan.
• Lemon zest and juice: Adds vibrant citrus notes—fresh lemon is a must for that bright flavor pop.
• Dried thyme and oregano: These herbs give an earthy depth that complements the basil perfectly.
• Salt and ground black pepper: Essential seasonings that brighten and balance the dish.
• Chicken breasts: Sliced in half lengthwise for even cooking and tender results.
• Olive oil: For a golden sear that locks in juices.
• Butter: Brings richness and helps build the silky lemon-garlic sauce.
• Garlic cloves: Minced fresh garlic adds an irresistible aroma and depth.
• Chicken broth: Gives the sauce body and savory background flavors.
• Fresh basil leaves: Thinly sliced to add a fresh, herbaceous finish just before serving.

Variations

I love how versatile this One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe is. Feel free to play around with the ingredients to fit your mood or what’s in your pantry—you’re encouraged to make it your own! Here are a few ways I’ve tweaked it over time.

• Variation: I sometimes swap chicken breasts for thighs—they stay super juicy and give a richer flavor, especially if you’re into darker meat.
• Variation: For a dairy-free version, replace butter with olive oil and skip the broth for vegetable stock; still delicious and flavorful!
• Variation: Adding a handful of cherry tomatoes towards the end gives a burst of color and sweetness that my family loves.
• Variation: If you like spice, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes when making the sauce—it adds a subtle kick without overpowering the lemon basil flavor.

How to Make One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Chicken with a Zesty Flour Coating

Start by mixing the flour with lemon zest, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper in a large dish. This mixture is key—it not only flavors the chicken but also helps create that light, crisp exterior I adore. Coat each chicken half evenly, then shake off any excess flour. This prep sets the stage for a beautiful golden sear.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken to a Golden Perfection

Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the coated chicken pieces, and cook for about 5 minutes on each side until they’re golden and cooked through. Keep an eye on them—too high a heat can burn the coating, and too low will prevent that satisfying crisp. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate; this step gives you beautifully cooked meat that stays juicy inside.

Step 3: Whip Up the Luscious Lemon Basil Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and toss in the minced garlic. When the garlic becomes fragrant (about 30 seconds), stir in the fresh lemon juice and chicken broth, scraping the flavorful browned bits from the pan’s bottom. Let it simmer just until slightly thickened—this sauce brings all those lovely pan flavors together, coating the chicken lightly and keeping every bite tender.

Step 4: Bring It All Together with Fresh Basil

Return the chicken back to the skillet, letting it warm through in the sauce for about one minute—this quick moment helps the flavors meld beautifully. Then sprinkle the sliced fresh basil over the top along with a few extra lemon slices for a pop of color and brightness. Serve immediately and soak up every delicious drop of that sauce!

How to Serve One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

For me, those extra lemon slices on top brighten up the plate visually and add a fun zesty pop when squeezed over the chicken. I also love scattering fresh basil leaves for that delicate herbal aroma that makes the dish feel fresh and inviting every time.

Side Dishes

My go-to sides with this recipe include a simple garlic butter green beans and fluffy roasted potatoes—they complement the lemony chicken without overpowering it. Rice pilaf or a light couscous salad also pairs wonderfully if you prefer something grain-based.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to plate the chicken over a bed of wilted spinach and garnish with edible flowers and fresh basil sprigs—it makes for a fancy, restaurant-style presentation that’s sure to impress guests without extra fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and they keep well for up to 3 days. The chicken stays moist because of the sauce, but I always like to add a splash of broth when reheating to keep everything juicy and fresh.

Freezing

Once cooled, this dish freezes beautifully—just portion it out, seal in freezer-safe containers, and it can last up to 3 months. When I freeze it, I prefer to leave off the fresh basil and add it fresh after reheating to preserve that vibrant flavor.

Reheating

The best way I’ve found to reheat is gently warming it on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of chicken broth—this keeps the chicken tender and the sauce luscious without drying it out. Microwaving works too, but cover it loosely to retain moisture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe quickly became a favorite in my house because it’s deceptively simple but packs so much flavor. It’s ideal for those evenings when you want a meal that feels special but actually takes hardly any effort. If you try it, I think you’ll find yourself making it over and over, just like I do! So go ahead, give yourself an easy, tasty win in the kitchen that everyone will enjoy.

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