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Creamy Lemon Basil Chicken

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Creamy Lemon Basil Chicken features tender, golden-seared chicken breasts simmered in a silky lemon-basil Parmesan cream sauce. Bright citrus flavor balances the richness of cream and cheese, creating an elegant yet easy one-skillet meal perfect for weeknights or special dinners.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • For the Chicken:
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6–7 oz each)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • For the Sauce:
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (120 ml)
  • Juice of 1 medium lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (25 g)
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
  • For Serving (Optional):
  • 3 cups cooked pasta, or
  • 3 cups cooked rice, or
  • 2–3 cups roasted vegetables

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, sauté garlic for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up browned bits. Simmer for 1 minute.
  5. Stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Return chicken to the skillet. Spoon sauce over top and simmer 2–3 minutes to blend flavors.
  8. Stir in fresh basil just before serving. Serve over pasta, rice, or with roasted vegetables.

Notes

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe cooking.
  • Simmer gently after adding cream to prevent sauce separation.
  • Add spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing is not recommended due to the cream-based sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/creamy-lemon-basil-chicken/