High Protein Basil Chicken

Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this High Protein Basil Chicken—a flavorful, protein-packed dish that’s as nutritious as it is satisfying. Tender pieces of skinless chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection and infused with the aromatic goodness of fresh basil leaves, garlic, and a touch of soy sauce for a savory twist. Vibrant red bell peppers and onions add a pop of color and a wholesome, veggie-packed crunch, while a quick slurry thickens the light, umami-rich sauce to coat every bite. Ready in just 35 minutes, this easy skillet recipe is perfect for busy evenings and pairs beautifully with steamed rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables. Packed with lean protein and simple, fresh ingredients, this basil chicken recipe is ideal for health-conscious food lovers seeking a delicious, balanced meal.

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 pieces skinless boneless chicken breasts
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 0.5 cup chicken broth
• 1 medium red bell pepper
• 1 medium onion
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

Directions

Step 1

Begin by thinning the chicken breasts to an even thickness for more consistent cooking. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2

Mince the garlic and slice the onion and red bell pepper into thin strips. Set them aside separately.

Step 3

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry and set it aside for later use.

Step 4

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, sprinkle with the salt and pepper, and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 5

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 6

Add the sliced onion and red bell pepper to the skillet, sautéing them for about 4-5 minutes, or until they begin to soften.

Step 7

Pour in the soy sauce and chicken broth, stirring to combine well. Return the chicken to the skillet.

Step 8

Add the basil leaves to the skillet and stir them in.

Step 9

Stir the cornstarch slurry you've prepared and pour it into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.

Step 10

Serve the basil chicken hot, garnished with a few extra fresh basil leaves for a fresh touch.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1230.7 grams (1230.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1596

Total Fat 54.10g	69%
Saturated Fat 11.50g	57%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 592mg	197%
Sodium 3714mg	161%
Total Carbohydrate 37.40g	14%
Dietary Fiber 6.30g	23%
Total Sugars 11.90g
Protein 226.50g	453%

Vitamin D 7IU	35%
Calcium 195mg	15%
Iron 10mg	53%
Potassium 2680mg	57%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 31.6%

Protein: 58.7%

Carbs: 9.7%