Lemon-Lime Basil Chicken

This recipe is so simple and full of flavor.

 

I made it up on Sunday when I had some chicken breasts that needed to be cooked, lemons/limes that had to be used and fresh basil from a new plant that I had just purchased.

I often "make up" meals and find the creativity of doing so to be one of the joys of cooking!

 

I served the chicken with stuffing (homemade) and sautéed maple, peppered carrots.

 

 

 

Lemon-Lime Basil Chicken

 

4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 large lemons

2 limes if they are large or 3 smaller ones

4 to 6 garlic cloves

A handful of fresh basil

salt and pepper

olive oil

 

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Spray a 13 x 9 pan with a bit of cooking spray. (I use canola oil spray)

Wash lemons and limes and slice into rounds.

Lay the rounds across the bottom of the pan, alternating as you go. (slice of lemon, slice of lime, etc.)

Salt and pepper both sides of the chicken breasts.

Lay the chicken breasts on top of the lemon and lime slices.

Peel the garlic, crush a bit with the flat blade of a knife and toss in with the chicken.

Wash basil leaves, pat dry and place in the pan with the chicken.

Drizzle all with a good amount of olive oil. (use good quality olive oil!)

Place pan in the oven and bake for 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the size/thickness of the chicken breasts.

About half way through the cooking time, open oven, pull out pan and baste the chicken with the juices in the pan.

The chicken will be golden in color and the juices will run clear when done.

This chicken dish is full of summer flavor and is so easy to prepare!

Enjoy!