Simple Italian Basil Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that brings the sun-drenched flavors of Italy straight to your kitchen, look no further than Simple Italian Basil Chicken. This recipe is pure comfort: golden chicken, sweet-tart cherry tomatoes, a heady dose of garlic, and a shower of fresh basil all come together in one skillet. With a prep time of just 10 minutes, this vibrant meal is weeknight-friendly yet special enough to impress guests. Whether you serve it over pasta, rice, or a tangle of zucchini noodles, Simple Italian Basil Chicken is bound to become a staple in your dinner rotation.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s beauty in simplicity, and nowhere is that more deliciously apparent than in this recipe. Each ingredient is chosen to layer in flavor, offer gorgeous color, and create that irresistible Italian flair. Get ready for a short (but essential) list of stunners!

• Chicken breasts or thighs: Bite-sized pieces cook fast and soak up all the zesty seasoning—choose thighs for a bit more juiciness!
• Olive oil: Infuses the dish with fruity richness and helps everything brown beautifully.
• Garlic: A must for bold Mediterranean flavor; mince it fresh for the best results.
• Cherry tomatoes: Their natural sweetness and slight acidity brighten the whole dish and create a lovely sauce.
• Fresh basil leaves: Torn or chopped just before adding, basil perfumes the chicken with unmistakable Italian aroma.
• Dried oregano: Lends a cozy herby note that really deepens the flavor.
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Just a pinch adds a subtle, lively heat—it’s totally up to you!
• Salt and black pepper: Season thoughtfully as you go for maximum flavor depth.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Sprinkle on at the end for a nutty, umami-rich finish.
• Lemon juice: A squeeze at the end brightens every bite and brings it all to life.

How to Make Simple Italian Basil Chicken

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add your chicken pieces and a generous pinch each of salt and black pepper. Sauté for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden on the outside and cooked through. Letting the chicken caramelize gives it those irresistible crispy edges and seals in all the juicy goodness.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Aromatics

Push the chicken to one side of your skillet to make a little space for the garlic. Drop in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant—don’t let it burn! You’ll immediately smell that fragrant foundation that sets the tone for great Italian cooking.

Step 3: Soften Tomatoes and Build Flavor

Scatter in the cherry tomatoes, followed by the dried oregano and red pepper flakes if you want a little heat. Stir everything together and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, letting those tomatoes start to soften and release their juices, forming a light, flavorful sauce. This step is where Simple Italian Basil Chicken really starts to come alive.

Step 4: Finish with Basil and Lemon

Sprinkle in the chopped basil and squeeze in the lemon juice. Toss everything together and let it cook for 1 to 2 more minutes, just enough to let the basil wilt and the flavors meld. Take the skillet off the heat; the basil is delicate and needs only a brief moment to shine!

Step 5: Serve with a Parmesan Shower

If you like, finish your Simple Italian Basil Chicken with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving. This optional step adds a salty, luxurious finish and brings all the Italian vibes to your table. Serve warm over pasta, steamed rice, or a crisp bed of greens—don’t forget to spoon over those juicy tomatoes and pan sauce!

How to Serve Simple Italian Basil Chicken

Garnishes

A final flourish of fresh basil leaves and a dusting of extra Parmesan cheese instantly elevates this dish from simple to showstopper. Add a twist of black pepper or even a drizzle of good quality olive oil for a restaurant-style presentation. Simple Italian Basil Chicken loves a pop of green and a touch of sparkle!

Side Dishes

This chicken is endlessly versatile—try it atop a swirl of al dente pasta, nutty brown rice, tender couscous, or garlic-sautéed zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist. A simple salad of arugula dressed with lemon and olive oil or crusty bread to soak up all those pan juices makes this meal feel complete. Simple Italian Basil Chicken pairs well with classic Italian sides, so let your cravings guide the way.

Creative Ways to Present

You can tuck the saucy chicken into toasted ciabatta rolls for an Italian-inspired sandwich, stuff it into lettuce cups for a lighter bite, or pile it high on a sheet pan for a family-style dinner. Try spooning it over polenta or roasted potatoes for a cozy, comforting meal—you really can’t go wrong. Play around until you find your favorite way to show off Simple Italian Basil Chicken!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (lucky you!), transfer the cooled Simple Italian Basil Chicken into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavor only gets better as the garlic, basil, and tomatoes mingle—just be sure not to let the chicken sit out at room temperature too long before chilling.

Freezing

This recipe freezes quite well, making it great for meal prep. Let the dish cool completely, then package individual portions in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Gently reheat your Simple Italian Basil Chicken in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen things up if necessary. You can also microwave it in 1-minute bursts, stirring between each, just until heated through. If you have extra fresh basil, toss some in after reheating to refresh those bright, herbal notes.

FAQs

Can I use dried basil if I don’t have fresh?

Fresh basil brings unbeatable aroma and flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, use 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried basil. Just know the taste will be a bit subtler—try to add a splash of extra lemon juice to lift it up!

What’s the best way to cut the chicken for even cooking?

For Simple Italian Basil Chicken, slice chicken breasts or thighs into uniform, bite-sized pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches each. This ensures everything cooks evenly and stays juicy. A sharp knife and a quick pat with a paper towel (to dry the chicken) makes slicing easier.

Is this dish spicy?

Not unless you want it to be! The crushed red pepper flakes are totally optional, so you can dial the heat up or down to match your family’s taste. Even a little gives the dish a gentle zing without overwhelming the basil or tomato.

Can I make Simple Italian Basil Chicken dairy-free?

Absolutely! Just skip the Parmesan cheese at the end or use a plant-based alternative. The dish is naturally full of flavor from the basil, garlic, and lemon, so you won’t miss a thing.

What protein alternatives work for this recipe?

Simple Italian Basil Chicken is easily adaptable: try using shrimp for a quick-cooking seafood version, or swap in firm tofu cubes if you’d like a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed for your protein of choice.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re inspired to welcome a burst of Italian sunshine to your kitchen with Simple Italian Basil Chicken. It’s a fast, flavorful recipe that proves simple really can mean sensational—whether you’re feeding your family or impressing friends. Give it a try soon, and your taste buds will thank you!

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