Italian Basil Chicken

Save this recipe on:

Few things capture the essence of summer quite like Italian basil chicken. This dish is vibrant, aromatic, and bursting with fresh flavors that feel like a sunny day on your plate. Tender chicken breast is cooked to golden perfection and infused with the intoxicating scent of basil, creating a light yet satisfying meal.

The beauty of Italian basil chicken lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a dinner that feels gourmet without hours in the kitchen. Perfect for weeknights when you crave something wholesome and flavorful without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Italian Basil Chicken

You’ll love this recipe because it’s quick to make, full of fresh, herby flavors, and versatile enough to pair with pasta, rice, or even a simple salad. The fragrant basil combined with juicy chicken is a match made in heaven, and it’s as pretty to serve as it is delicious to eat.

What Kind of Basil Should I Use?

For authentic Italian flavor, use fresh sweet basil, often called Genovese basil. It has a bright, slightly peppery, and sweet aroma that shines in this dish. Avoid dried basil, as it won’t deliver the same fresh, green punch that makes this chicken so special.

Ingredients for the Italian Basil Chicken

The charm of Italian basil chicken lies in its few but impactful ingredients. Each one brings something unique to the dish, creating a flavorful and balanced meal.

• Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts serve as the juicy and lean protein base of this recipe.
• Fresh basil leaves: These fragrant herbs give the dish its signature aroma and fresh, peppery flavor.
• Garlic: A few cloves of garlic add depth and savory notes to complement the basil.
• Olive oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil brings richness and helps cook the chicken evenly.
• Cherry tomatoes: Their sweetness and slight tang brighten the dish and create a colorful presentation.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the natural flavors.
• Lemon juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice adds a zesty finish that enhances the basil and chicken.

How To Make the Italian Basil Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Let them sit at room temperature while you prep the other ingredients.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 6–7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Basil

In the same skillet, add halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2–3 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the fresh basil leaves and cook just until wilted.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the tomato-basil mixture over it. Drizzle with lemon juice and cook for another minute before serving hot.

Serving and Storing Italian Basil Chicken

Italian basil chicken is best served hot, right out of the skillet, with the fragrant basil and juicy tomatoes still warm. This recipe yields about 4 servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat to preserve the flavors and moisture.

What to Serve With Italian Basil Chicken?

Creamy Polenta

The creamy texture of polenta is the perfect canvas for the bright basil and tomato flavors.

Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Toss some pasta with garlic, butter, and Parmesan for a comforting side.

Roasted Vegetables

A medley of roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant makes a colorful and healthy pairing.

Crusty Bread

Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread to soak up all the delicious pan juices.

Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze echoes the flavors of the main dish.

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes offer a hearty and classic accompaniment.

Green Beans Almondine

Sautéed green beans with butter and toasted almonds add a nutty crunch to the plate.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Italian basil chicken, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Creamy Beef and Shells for a comforting pasta dish.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta for a quick and hearty meal.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce if you’re craving something cheesy and satisfying.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for a creamy twist on a classic.
• One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta for an easy one-pan dinner.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use chicken thighs or stick with breasts? Did you toss in extra veggies?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too – let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated chicken and pasta dinners on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to meals for any occasion!

Print

Save this recipe on: