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Healthy Low Calorie Lemon Basil Chicken - Bright, Fresh, and Easy

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.25–1.5 lb total), pounded to even thickness
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for seasoning)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, to balance acidity)
  • 1 tablespoon capers, drained (optional, for a briny kick)
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • Lemon slices for garnish (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of parchment or plastic wrap. Pound to an even 1/2-inch thickness. Pat dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  2. Heat the pan: Set a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it get hot until it shimmers.
  3. Quick sear: Add the chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes on the first side without moving it. Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C). Transfer to a plate and tent with foil.
  4. Sauté the aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and lemon zest to the pan. Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant, scraping up browned bits.
  5. Build the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Add capers if using. Simmer 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in the honey if you want to soften the acidity.
  6. Finish with herbs: Turn off the heat. Stir in the sliced basil and parsley. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  7. Coat the chicken: Return the chicken to the pan, spoon sauce over the top, and let it rest in the warm sauce for 1–2 minutes to soak up flavor.
  8. Serve: Garnish with extra basil and lemon slices. Pair with roasted vegetables, steamed green beans, zucchini ribbons, a simple salad, or cauliflower rice.