Creamy Lemon Basil Chicken Thighs

Name: Creamy Lemon Basil Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Freshly Wholesome

I absolutely love how easy it is to make rich and creamy chicken dishes at home, and this Creamy Lemon Basil Chicken Thighs recipe is one of my favorites! The tangy lemon paired with fragrant basil creates a delicious sauce that complements the juicy chicken perfectly. It’s a dish that brings a burst of flavor and can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a special weekend dinner. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make this again and again!

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-02-16T09:53:37.142Z

Creating my Creamy Lemon Basil Chicken Thighs became an exciting experiment one evening when I wanted to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. I found that marinating the chicken in lemon juice not only tenderizes it but also infuses it with a bright flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce. This technique worked wonders, ensuring every bite was bursting with zest.

In my quest for the perfect sauce, I discovered that adding fresh basil at the end of cooking keeps its vibrant flavor intact. This small detail made a remarkable difference, elevating the dish from good to gloriously flavorful. My family couldn't get enough!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Citrusy brightness that enhances the chicken's richness
Silky sauce that elevates any simple side dish
Quick and simple preparation ideal for busy evenings

      

Unlocking Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

The freshness of the basil is crucial in this dish; it beautifully complements the richness of the cream and the acidity of the lemon. Always opt for fresh basil, as dried basil won't provide the same vibrant flavor. When chopping the basil, avoid bruising it too much to keep its aromatic oils intact. You can also experiment with other herbs like thyme or tarragon if you want to introduce a different flavor profile.

Lemon plays a dual role in this recipe; not only does it add tartness to balance the cream, but the zest enhances the dish’s aroma and overall taste. Make sure to use a microplane or fine grater for zesting, which allows you to capture just the bright, outer part of the peel. This way, your sauce will be more fragrant and tangy without any bitterness from the white pith.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Searing the chicken thighs properly is essential for creating a flavorful crust. Ensure your skillet is preheated to medium-high heat before adding the chicken. You should hear a satisfying sizzle once the chicken hits the pan; if not, your pan isn't hot enough. Leave the chicken undisturbed for the first few minutes to develop a golden brown crust, which usually takes about 5-6 minutes per side. Overcrowding the pan can cause steaming instead of searing, leading to less flavor.

When simmering the chicken in the sauce, keep the heat low enough to avoid boiling. A gentle simmer allows the chicken to cook through evenly while allowing the flavors to meld together without the cream separating. Always check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety. For a creamier sauce, you can whisk in a touch more heavy cream during the simmering stage if it appears too thick.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started on your delightful dish:

Ingredients

4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Creamy Lemon Basil Chicken Thighs:

Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and sear on both sides until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest, stirring gently to combine.

Combine & Simmer

Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for about 10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Stir in the chopped basil just before serving.

Your delightful dish is now ready to serve. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a lighter version, consider using chicken breast or substituting half of the heavy cream with chicken broth.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Lemon Basil Chicken Thighs recipe is perfect for meal prep. The chicken and sauce can be made up to two days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. To avoid overcooking the chicken, you may want to add a splash of milk or chicken broth to help revive the creaminess of the sauce during reheating.

If you want to freeze this dish, let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm gently on the stove. Just be cautious, as reheating too quickly could cause the cream to separate.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy chicken dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a fresh contrast, serve it over a bed of lemon-infused rice or alongside roasted asparagus. The brightness from the lemon and basil can cut through rich side dishes like creamy polenta or buttery mashed potatoes, enhancing the entire meal experience.

Don't forget to drizzle the creamy sauce over whatever side you choose – it adds that luscious touch! For a burst of color and flavor, consider garnishing your plate with additional chopped fresh basil or lemon slices. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a final touch of freshness right before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may require a shorter cooking time.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It's great with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad—anything that can soak up the creamy sauce!

→ How long can I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to let it cool before placing it in a freezer-safe container.