Lemon-Basil Chicken Breather

A quick and refreshing single-serving dish that combines juicy chicken with vibrant tomatoes and aromatic basil, all elevated by a hint of lemon zest and juice.

⏱️ Cooking Time: 20 minutes | 🍽️ Servings: 1

Instructions

1. 1.
   Heat the olive oil in a medium-sized skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the sliced chicken breast in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the chicken is golden brown on one side. Flip the chicken and cook for another 3-4 minutes until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. This ensures the chicken is juicy and flavorful. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. 2.
   In the same skillet, add the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook them over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften and release their juices. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. The tomatoes should look slightly blistered and vibrant.
3. 3.
   Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with any juices that may have collected. Stir in the lemon zest and 1 tablespoon of the lemon juice. Cook everything together for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the lemon juice to slightly reduce. This will create a tangy glaze that coats the chicken beautifully.
4. 4.
   Remove the skillet from the heat and gently fold in the torn basil leaves. The residual heat will wilt the basil without cooking it, preserving its fresh flavor. If you find the mixture too tart, add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.
5. 5.
   Serve immediately on a warm plate. The chicken should be tender and aromatic with the refreshing taste of lemon and basil. If the chicken looks dry, drizzle with a little more olive oil before serving to enhance the dish's richness.