Ina Garten Chicken with Goat Cheese and Basil Recipe

If you’re looking for a chicken dinner that feels elegant but comes together in minutes, Ina Garten’s Chicken with Goat Cheese and Basil is the perfect choice. This classic Barefoot Contessa recipe features juicy baked chicken breasts topped with creamy goat cheese, fresh basil, and a touch of lemon zest—a beautiful balance of richness and brightness.

What Is Ina Garten’s Chicken with Goat Cheese and Basil?

This recipe starts with boneless, skinless chicken breasts roasted in the oven, then finished with a slice of tangy goat cheese, a fresh basil leaf, and a hint of lemon zest just before serving. It’s simple to prepare yet delivers a surprising depth of flavor and a presentation that feels restaurant-worthy.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten’s Crispy Chicken with Lemon Orzo
• Ina Garten’s Crispy Mustard Chicken
• Ina Garten’s Engagement Roast Chicken
•  Ina Garten Fried Chicken Sandwiches

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Chicken with Goat Cheese and Basil

• Elegant yet simple – Easy enough for weeknights, special enough for guests
• Big flavor with few ingredients – A hallmark of Ina’s style
• Healthy and satisfying – Low in carbs, high in protein
• Quick cooking time – On the table in about 30 minutes
• Great for meal prep – Reheats beautifully
• Versatile pairing options – Goes with everything from salads to grains
• Fresh, bright flavor – Thanks to lemon and basil

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten’s Chicken with Goat Cheese and Basil

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Olive oil
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 4 ounces fresh goat cheese (chèvre), sliced into 4 rounds
• 4 large fresh basil leaves
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest
• Optional garnish: lemon wedges or additional basil

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten’s Chicken with Goat Cheese and Basil

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil a baking dish or sheet pan.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Drizzle lightly with olive oil, then season both sides generously with kosher salt and black pepper.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

Place chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Roast for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and juices run clear.

Step 4: Add the Topping

Remove chicken from the oven and immediately top each breast with one basil leaf and a round of goat cheese. Let the cheese soften and melt slightly from the heat of the chicken. Sprinkle with lemon zest.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Transfer to serving plates and spoon any juices from the pan over the top. Serve with your favorite sides.

What to Serve With Chicken, Goat Cheese, and Basil

• Garlic roasted potatoes or lemon rice – Hearty and comforting
• Steamed green beans or asparagus – Adds brightness and texture
• Arugula salad with vinaigrette – Peppery and refreshing
• Pasta with olive oil and herbs – Light and flavorful
• Grilled vegetables – A Mediterranean match
• Herbed couscous or quinoa – Keeps it light and wholesome
• Crusty French bread – To mop up the juices

Expert Tips for Mastering the Recipe

• Use high-quality goat cheese – It’s the star of the dish
• Don’t overcook the chicken – Use a thermometer for precision
• Add basil and cheese while hot – Helps it melt naturally
• Use lemon zest, not juice – The zest adds brightness without extra moisture
• Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes – Locks in juices
• Try flavored goat cheese – Herb or garlic varieties work well
• Pound chicken to even thickness – Ensures even cooking

Variations of the Recipe

• Add a slice of prosciutto under the cheese – For a savory twist
• Use mozzarella or feta – If goat cheese isn’t preferred
• Layer sun-dried tomatoes – Adds depth and color
• Use boneless thighs instead – Juicier and richer
• Top with pesto instead of basil leaves – More flavor
• Stuff instead of top – Butterfly the chicken and stuff with cheese and basil
• Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze – For a sweet-tangy finish

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerate in an airtight container – Up to 3 days
• Reheat in the oven or skillet – Keeps texture better than the microwave
• Avoid freezing with basil topping – Basil may darken
• Freeze cooked chicken without toppings – Add cheese and basil fresh after thawing
• Wrap individually for meal prep – Easy lunches or dinners
• Reheat with a splash of broth or lemon juice – Keeps it moist

How Do I Reuse Leftover Chicken with Goat Cheese?

• Slice over a salad – With arugula, tomatoes, and vinaigrette
• Serve in a sandwich or wrap – With lettuce and roasted peppers
• Add to a pasta dish – With olive oil and lemon
• Turn into a flatbread topping – With caramelized onions
• Serve in lettuce cups – For a low-carb lunch
• Pair with scrambled eggs or toast – A fancy breakfast
• Dice and stuff into roasted vegetables – Like bell peppers or zucchini

Nutritional Value (per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Sugar: 1g

FAQs

What kind of goat cheese is best for this chicken recipe?

Use a soft, fresh goat cheese (chèvre). It should be creamy and slightly tangy to melt easily over the warm chicken and complement the basil.

Can I prepare Ina Garten’s chicken with goat cheese in advance?

You can season and bake the chicken in advance. Add the basil and goat cheese just before serving, then warm slightly in the oven for 5–10 minutes.

Does this recipe work with chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. They are juicier and may cook slightly faster—check for doneness at 20 minutes.

How do I keep the goat cheese from sliding off the chicken?

Place the goat cheese on the chicken as soon as it comes out of the oven. The residual heat helps it soften and adhere naturally.

Final Words

Ina Garten’s Chicken with Goat Cheese and Basil is the kind of meal that looks and tastes gourmet, yet is surprisingly easy to make. With minimal prep and just a few quality ingredients, you’ll have a dish that feels fresh, light, and elegant—perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.

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