Ever been to Bonefish Grill and had their famous Lily’s Chicken? That creamy lemon basil sauce, the perfectly cooked chicken, and that tangy goat cheese topping – it’s a dish that sticks with you. I remember my first bite of Lily’s Chicken like it was yesterday. Sitting with friends, sharing laughs and good food, I couldn’t help but think, “This is the kind of meal I want to recreate at home.” Well, now you can. This recipe gives you everything you need to bring Bonefish Grill’s beloved Lily’s Chicken into your own kitchen, so you can enjoy that same delicious flavor without the restaurant price tag. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
lily’s chicken bonefish grill
Recreate Bonefish Grill’s famous Lily’s Chicken at home with a creamy lemon basil sauce, tender chicken, and a tangy goat cheese topping. It’s the perfect restaurant-style dish for any occasion!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Olive oil for brushing
- 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Brush with olive oil.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Cook the chicken for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Meanwhile, mix the goat cheese, spinach, and artichokes in a small bowl to create the topping.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, then add chicken broth and lemon juice. Let simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in fresh basil and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Once the chicken is cooked, top with the goat cheese mixture and drizzle with the lemon basil sauce. Serve immediately.
Notes
Feel free to swap goat cheese for feta or ricotta if you prefer. Serve with a green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: chicken, lemon basil sauce, goat cheese, Bonefish Grill copycat
Why You’ll Love Lily’s Chicken Bonefish Grill Recipe
Lily’s Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a flavor experience. The rich, creamy lemon butter sauce brings an irresistible tang, while the juicy, tender chicken breast melts in your mouth. The combination of fresh spinach, artichokes, and tangy goat cheese topping takes this dish to another level, offering a blend of textures and flavors that’s truly unique. This recipe will make it easy to recreate the Bonefish Grill experience right at home.
One of the best parts about this dish is how easy it is to make. You don’t need to be a professional chef to pull it off. The recipe uses simple ingredients, like chicken breasts and fresh herbs, which you can find at your local grocery store. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a quick weeknight meal, this dish works for any occasion. For another quick dinner option, try the Grilled Stuffed Chicken Burrito Taco Bell for a flavor-packed alternative. Also, if you’re looking for the perfect side dish, check out the Smoked Mac and Cheese Recipe.
Ingredients for Lily’s Chicken Bonefish Grill Copycat
To make this delicious dish at home, you’ll need a few key ingredients that come together to create the rich, flavorful profile of Lily’s Chicken. Here’s everything you’ll need:
- Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (make sure to choose fresh, high-quality chicken for the best results).
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to enhance the natural flavor of the chicken.
- Topping: Goat cheese, fresh spinach, and artichoke hearts create a savory, creamy topping that’s the star of this dish.
- Lemon Basil Sauce: The sauce is what makes this recipe truly special. You’ll need butter, garlic, chicken broth, lemon juice, and fresh basil. The combination of these ingredients creates a creamy, tangy sauce that ties everything together.
Optional Ingredients: Feel free to swap the goat cheese for feta or ricotta to change things up a bit. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can also add a personal touch to the dish. If you’re looking for more ways to enhance your chicken dishes, you can also check out our Juicy Grilled Chicken Strips Recipe for more inspiration.
How to Make Lily’s Chicken Bonefish Grill Copycat
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to recreate the magic of Bonefish Grill’s Lily’s Chicken in your own kitchen. Follow these simple steps to achieve a restaurant-quality meal that rivals the famous Lily’s Chicken Bonefish Grill.
Step 1: Season and Prepare Chicken Breasts
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Then, brush the chicken with olive oil to keep it moist while cooking. Preheat your air fryer to ensure it’s nice and hot before placing the chicken inside. For a different cooking technique, you can also pan-sear the chicken in a skillet.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken in the Air Fryer
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer, setting the temperature to 375°F (190°C). Cook the chicken for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The air fryer will create a crispy, golden exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. If you prefer a different cooking method, you can also try the Grilled Chicken Platter Recipe for a smoky twist. The key to perfect Lily’s Chicken Bonefish Grill-style chicken is to ensure it is cooked through but remains juicy.
Step 3: Prepare the Goat Cheese Topping
While the chicken is cooking, it’s time to prepare the goat cheese topping. In a small bowl, mix the crumbled goat cheese, fresh spinach, and artichokes. This mixture should be creamy and slightly chunky – the perfect complement to the juicy chicken. The goat cheese topping is essential for recreating that signature Lily’s Chicken Bonefish Grill flavor.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Basil Sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Then, add the chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring well. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Finally, stir in the fresh basil and cook for another 1-2 minutes. The sauce should be creamy and aromatic, ready to drizzle over the chicken. This tangy, lemony sauce is a key element in making Lily’s Chicken Bonefish Grill truly irresistible.
Recipe Tips for Perfect Lily’s Chicken
To make sure your Lily’s Chicken Bonefish Grill copycat recipe turns out perfect every time, here are a few helpful tips to keep in mind:
Tip 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheating the air fryer is essential for ensuring even cooking. By allowing the air fryer to reach the optimal temperature before adding your chicken, you’ll get that crispy, golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
Tip 2: Choose the Right Chicken
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are key for the best results. They cook quickly and evenly, giving you the perfect texture to complement the creamy topping and tangy sauce. If you prefer a juicier cut, you can also use chicken thighs, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Tip 3: Fresh Goat Cheese is Best
For the topping, fresh goat cheese is ideal. It melts beautifully and gives the dish its creamy, slightly tangy flavor. Avoid pre-crumbled goat cheese, as it tends to have a drier texture that doesn’t work as well in this dish.
Tip 4: Don’t Overcook
The secret to juicy chicken is monitoring the internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). This way, your chicken will be cooked perfectly without drying out.
Tip 5: Feel Free to Customize the Topping
While goat cheese is the classic choice, feel free to swap it out for feta or ricotta for a unique twist. You can also add extra herbs like thyme or parsley for an additional layer of flavor. If you’re looking for a side to go with it, try pairing it with the Grilled Zucchini Boats Recipe for a healthy, complementary dish.
Storing, Freezing, and Reheating Your Copycat Chicken
Once you’ve made this delicious chicken at home, you’ll want to know how to store and reheat it properly to maintain its flavor and texture. Here’s everything you need to know about keeping your meal fresh for later.
Storing:
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To keep the sauce and topping fresh, it’s best to store them separately. This prevents the goat cheese topping from becoming too soggy while preserving the creamy lemon basil sauce.
Freezing:
You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Wrap the cooked chicken in plastic wrap or foil, and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Similarly, freeze the lemon basil sauce in a separate container. When you’re ready to enjoy, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating:
Reheat the chicken in the air fryer at 350°F for 8-10 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the oven. For the sauce, heat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Be sure to check the chicken’s internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.
What to Serve with Lily’s Chicken Bonefish Grill Copycat
Now that you’ve prepared this delicious dish, you might be wondering what sides will pair perfectly with Lily’s Chicken Bonefish Grill. Here are some fantastic options that complement the rich flavors of the chicken and sauce:
Fresh Green Salad
A light, crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a perfect contrast to the creamy, rich chicken. The freshness of the greens will balance the richness of the goat cheese topping, making each bite feel refreshing and well-rounded.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables like asparagus, brussels sprouts, or garlic mashed potatoes pair beautifully with this dish. The slight smokiness from roasting adds depth to the flavors of the chicken and sauce, while the soft texture of the roasted vegetables adds a hearty touch to your meal.
Pasta or Quinoa
Serve Lily’s Chicken Bonefish Grill with a side of pasta or quinoa that soaks up the creamy lemon basil sauce. The neutral flavor of these sides works perfectly to complement the bold flavors of the chicken, allowing the sauce to shine while providing a satisfying base for the dish.
These sides are not only delicious but also versatile, making them great options for weeknight meals or special occasions.
Lily’s Chicken Bonefish Grill Recipe FAQs
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about making Lily’s Chicken Bonefish Grill at home:
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can! Chicken thighs will be juicier and slightly richer in flavor. However, they might require a little more cooking time compared to chicken breasts. Be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked.
Q2: Can I make the lemon basil sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the lemon basil sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove until warmed through, and drizzle over the chicken.
Q3: Can I freeze Lily’s Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze both the chicken and sauce separately. Wrap the chicken in plastic wrap or foil and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. The sauce can be frozen in a separate container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat.
Q4: What if I don’t like goat cheese?
No problem! If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, you can swap it for feta or even ricotta. These cheeses will give you a slightly different texture but still provide that creamy, tangy topping that makes the dish so delicious.
Q5: How can I make this in the oven?
If you prefer to bake the chicken instead of using an air fryer, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the chicken breasts for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). After baking, top with the goat cheese mixture and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese.
These tips and tricks should help you create the perfect version of Lily’s Chicken Bonefish Grill every time!
Final Verdict on Lily’s Chicken Bonefish Grill Recipe
Recreating Lily’s Chicken Bonefish Grill at home has never been easier or more satisfying. With the creamy lemon basil sauce, tender chicken breasts, and flavorful goat cheese topping, this dish brings the restaurant experience right into your kitchen. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also quick to prepare, making it a fantastic option for weeknight dinners or even special occasions.
Whether you’re a fan of Bonefish Grill or just love a flavorful, satisfying chicken dish, this copycat recipe will not disappoint. The combination of fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques makes it accessible for any home cook. So, why wait? Try this Lily’s Chicken Bonefish Grill recipe today, and bring the flavors of your favorite restaurant to your own table.
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This final section wraps up the recipe, emphasizing the dish’s ease, flavor, and appeal, while encouraging readers to try it out for themselves! Let me know if you need any more changes!
