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Lemon Basil Chicken
Laura

Lemon Basil Chicken

Tender pan-seared chicken breasts in a bright, buttery lemon basil sauce. This one-pan dinner comes together in 30 minutes with simple ingredients and delivers restaurant-quality flavor.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 385

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts pounded to even thickness
  • 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for searing
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice about 1 large lemon
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves chopped
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Meat mallet
  • Meat thermometer
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Pound chicken breasts to even thickness using a meat mallet. Season both sides generously with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add chicken and cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil.
  3. In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up browned bits from the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in lemon zest and remaining butter until melted.
  5. Return chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over each piece. Simmer gently for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and fold in fresh basil. Serve immediately with pan sauce drizzled over top.

Notes

  • For best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F without overcooking.
  • Add fresh basil at the very end to preserve its bright color and fresh flavor.
  • Sauce can be thinned with extra broth or thickened with a cornstarch slurry if needed.
  • Leftovers keep refrigerated for up to 4 days and reheat beautifully.