Simple Italian Basil Chicken

5 from 2 votes

This Italian basil chicken is made with a fresh garlic and basil infused butter compound then pan fried with olive oil and lemon juice until golden brown.

Prep Time30

Cook Time30

Chilling Time15

Total Time1 15

Course: Main Dish

Cuisine: American/Italian

Servings: servings

Calories: 369kcal

Author: Rosemary Molloy

Ingredients

4 chicken breasts (with skin)
½ cup fresh basil (chopped)
1-2 cloves garlic (finely minced)
¼ teaspoon salt
3-4 dashes black pepper
3 tablespoons butter (softened)
1-2 tablespoons olive oil
3-4 slices lemon - thinly sliced
1-2 teaspoons lemon juice

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Chop the basil and place in a small bowl with the minced garlic, salt and 2-3 dashes pepper and butter, combine, then refrigerate for approximately 15 minutes or until firm. Using your fingers gently lift the skin from the chicken and spread the basil spread evenly between the chicken pieces.
In a medium/large skillet drizzle the pan with olive oil and top with the sliced lemon, place the chicken bone side down on the lemon. Drizzle the chicken with 1-2 teaspoons of lemon juice, sprinkle with a pinch or two of salt and a dash or two of pepper. Cover and cook on low/medium heat for 25-30 minutes, once the liquid has evaporated, raise the heat and turn the chicken over to brown well. Turn the chicken back over, top with a little chopped basil and serve. Chicken is done at 165F.

Notes

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken in advance and refrigerate it. Take out of the refrigerator for 15 minutes before cooking.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

Cool then store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. I love this cold but you can reheat in the microwave until warm if you would like. Chicken easily dries out when reheating, so adding a splash of chicken broth can help retain moisture.

Nutrition