If you’re craving a weeknight dinner that feels utterly special without the fuss or towers of dirty dishes, the One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe is a must-try. Succulent chicken breasts or thighs are bathed in a luscious, creamy lemon sauce, then finished with a generous shower of fresh basil—living proof that comfort food can also be light, fresh, and flavor-packed. Whether you’re cooking to impress or just keeping family fed and happy, this is the dinner that earns applause every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best thing about this dish is how quickly it comes together using wholesome, simple ingredients you may already have on hand. Each one plays a huge role, from injecting juicy tenderness and zing to boosting creaminess or adding that final, herby finish. Here’s what you’ll want to gather before the One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe magic begins:

Chicken breasts or thighs: Go for about 1.5 pounds; thighs are a bit juicier, but breasts work beautifully for a leaner option.
Olive oil: The golden base that sears the chicken to flavorful perfection.
Garlic: Four cloves bring just the right amount of aromatic backbone. Don’t skimp!
Lemon juice and zest: Both the juice and zest of one lemon guarantee big, bright flavor; zest first, then juice.
Chicken broth: Half a cup of low-sodium broth ensures depth without overpowering the citrus.
Heavy cream: Just a third of a cup transforms the sauce into velvety bliss.
Parmesan cheese: A quarter cup, freshly grated if you can, brings creamy body and salty bite to the sauce.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for balanced seasoning throughout.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle heat that won’t overwhelm the fresh flavors.
Fresh basil: Half a cup, chopped, gives the dish its signature herbal lift at the end.
Lemon slices (for garnish): The simplest finishing flourish that makes the plate pop and adds a fresh aroma.

How to Make One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken dry and sprinkling both sides generously with salt and pepper. This simple move is chef magic—it locks in the juices and jumpstarts flavor. In your largest skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high; once shimmering, nestle in your chicken pieces. Sear them undisturbed for about 4–5 minutes a side, until they turn gorgeously golden and cooked through. Set them aside, because there’s more flavor-building up ahead.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Reduce your skillet heat to medium, then add the minced garlic right into those glorious pan drippings. Stir it around for just one minute—garlic cooks fast! You’ll know it’s ready when the scent brings everyone into the kitchen wondering what’s cooking.

Step 3: Build the Zesty Lemon Sauce

Now pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, using a wooden spoon to gently scrape up every browned bit stuck on the pan. All those bits are flavor gold. Next, in goes the lemon zest, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and, if you want that subtle kick, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Give everything a good stir and let it simmer for 3–4 minutes, just until the sauce thickens slightly and smells irresistible.

Step 4: Finish Cooking the Chicken in the Sauce

Return the chicken gently to the skillet. Using a big spoon, ladle some of that dreamy sauce over each piece so they soak up all the tangy, creamy goodness. Let it all simmer together over low heat for another 2–3 minutes. This step melds the flavors and lets the chicken become extra tender.

Step 5: Add Basil and Garnish

Right before serving the One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe, stir in the chopped fresh basil. Watch the color pop and take a moment to appreciate how amazing your kitchen smells! Garnish with those glorious lemon slices—a little touch that makes a big difference.

How to Serve One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

This is one of those dishes that feels complete with just a few thoughtful finishing touches. A scattering of extra fresh basil and a couple of thin lemon slices make every plate look restaurant-worthy. If you love a hit of color, try a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or even a dusting of extra Parmesan.

Side Dishes

The One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe is a stunning main course that begs for a cozy side. Fluffy rice, tender pasta, or even creamy mashed potatoes soak up the sauce beautifully. For a lighter meal, serve it alongside roasted veggies or a crisp green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette.

Creative Ways to Present

Elevate this recipe for company by serving the chicken sliced atop a bed of wilted spinach, or pile it on a platter surrounded by charred lemon halves for an extra splash of drama. You can even go family-style and let everyone ladle their own sauce. If you have leftovers, try tucking the sliced chicken and some sauce into a toasted baguette for an incredible sandwich.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe tasting fresh, let any leftovers cool, then transfer them to an airtight container. Stash it in the fridge, where it’ll stay delicious for up to three days. That creamy sauce keeps the chicken moist and almost tastes better on day two!

Freezing

Want to make the most of busy weeks? This dish freezes well! Allow everything to cool fully, then portion it out into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to two months. When ready to dig in again, just thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, warm individual portions gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce is too thick. The key is to go low and slow, preserving the lovely creaminess and not overcooking the chicken. The microwave works in a pinch, but the stovetop really revives that saucy goodness.

FAQs

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Fresh basil really transforms the One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe with its aroma and vibrant flavor. Dried basil doesn’t have quite the same zing, but in a pinch, you can use 1–2 teaspoons—stirred into the sauce for the best effect.

Is there a dairy-free substitute for the cream and Parmesan?

Absolutely! Swap in coconut cream for the heavy cream and leave the Parmesan out (or use a vegan alternative). The sauce will still be creamy with a hint of coconut, and the basil and lemon keep everything bright.

What if I only have bone-in chicken?

You can use bone-in chicken, but cook time will increase—give them a good sear and then simmer gently in the sauce until fully cooked through. Just remember that the skin-on option will yield extra flavor and a richer mouthfeel!

Can I prep any ingredients ahead of time?

Yes! Mince your garlic, zest and juice the lemon, and even grate the cheese in advance. Have everything ready near the stove so the One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe comes together swiftly when hunger strikes.

How can I make this dish spicier?

For more heat, add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. If everyone at the table has a different spice tolerance, offer red pepper flakes on the side so folks can customize their own plates.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason the One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe has become a weeknight hero in so many kitchens—it’s fast, stunningly flavorful, and simple enough for anyone to master. I hope you’ll give it a try and savor the way bright citrus, creamy sauce, and fresh basil can turn one humble skillet into the best seat at the table. Happy cooking!

One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 21 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This One-Pan Lemon Basil Chicken recipe is a delicious and creamy dish that comes together quickly for a flavorful weeknight meal. Tender chicken is cooked in a lemony, basil-infused cream sauce that’s perfect served over rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken:

1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Sauce:

2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1/3 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
Lemon slices, for garnish

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Instructions

Season the chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.
Sear the chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Make the sauce: Reduce heat to medium, add garlic, and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in the lemon zest, cream, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer the sauce for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combine everything: Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over it. Let everything simmer together for another 2–3 minutes. Stir in the chopped basil just before serving. Garnish with lemon slices.