Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

If you’ve been searching for a delicious, comforting dinner that’s both simple and impressive, look no further than Baked Lemon Butter Chicken. This recipe brings together tender, juicy chicken infused with the bright zest of lemon and the rich, creamy flavor of butter—cooked perfectly every time. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or a cozy evening, this dish promises a mouthwatering experience that’s quick, flavorful, and totally crave-worthy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Flavor Boost: The combination of lemon and butter creates a mouthwatering sauce that seeps into every bite.
• Quick and Simple: Minimal ingredients and easy steps mean you’ll have dinner ready in under an hour.
• Perfectly Juicy Chicken: Baking locks in moisture, giving you tender, juicy chicken every time.
• Family-Friendly: A recipe that appeals to all ages, making it ideal for any household.
• Customizable: Easily adapted with herbs or sides to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for straightforward pantry staples and fresh ingredients, each carefully chosen to enhance the taste, texture, and vibrant color of your Baked Lemon Butter Chicken.

• Chicken thighs or breasts: Choose bone-in for extra flavor or boneless for quicker cooking and ease.
• Fresh lemons: The zest and juice provide bright citrus notes that balance the richness of butter.
• Unsalted butter: Melts into a silky sauce that keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
• Garlic cloves: Adds a warm, aromatic depth that complements the lemon perfectly.
• Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or rosemary): Offers a fresh, fragrant touch that elevates the dish.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors.
• Olive oil: Helps in searing and gives a slight fruity richness to the chicken.

Variations for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

One of the best parts about this recipe is how easy it is to tweak and tailor. Feel free to get creative or adjust according to your pantry and preferences!

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne powder to the butter sauce for some heat.
• Herb Mix-Up: Swap in basil, oregano, or dill instead of parsley and thyme for different aroma profiles.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or with roasted veggies instead of traditional sides.
• Gluten-Free: The recipe is naturally gluten-free but double-check your butter and seasoning labels to be safe.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative in place of regular butter.

How to Make Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature helps create a golden, crispy exterior while keeping the chicken juicy inside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to help it brown properly. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides for balanced flavor.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken, skin side down if using thighs with skin, until it’s golden brown—about 3-4 minutes. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes on the other side.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

Reduce heat to medium and add butter and minced garlic to the same pan. Stir until the butter melts and the garlic becomes fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add lemon juice and zest, and fresh herbs, stirring to combine.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Transfer the chicken and the pan sauce to a baking dish (or use the oven-safe skillet). Pour any remaining lemon butter sauce over the chicken. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender, juicy bites every time.

Pro Tips for Making Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

• Dry the Chicken: Patting the chicken dry helps achieve a crispier, better-seared crust.
• Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing locks in flavor and adds beautiful color before baking.
• Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh juice and zest make a significant difference in brightness and flavor.
• Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness every time.
• Let It Rest: Resting the chicken after baking preserves juiciness and tenderness.
• Herbs Matter: Adding fresh herbs at the end gives a fresh, vibrant aroma that dried herbs can’t match.

How to Serve Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Garnishes

Slice fresh lemon wedges and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or thyme over the chicken right before serving. These bright garnishes not only add visual appeal but enhance the citrusy, herbal notes in every bite.

Side Dishes

This chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides like buttery mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, garlic green beans, or a light mixed greens salad. For a lower-carb option, creamy cauliflower mash or steamed broccoli are fantastic choices.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant touch, plate each chicken thigh or breast on a bed of lemon-infused rice or quinoa and drizzle with extra lemon butter sauce. Adding colorful sides and edible flowers can turn this simple weeknight meal into a stunning presentation for guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the chicken to cool fully, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days and maintain good moisture due to the buttery lemon sauce.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked Baked Lemon Butter Chicken in a sealed freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. To preserve maximum flavor, add a bit of extra lemon juice before freezing.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) or in a covered skillet over low heat to avoid drying out. Adding a splash of water or extra lemon butter sauce helps keep the chicken moist during reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well too; just be mindful of cooking time as breasts tend to cook faster and can dry out if overbaked.

Is it necessary to sear the chicken before baking?

Searing is highly recommended because it locks in flavor and helps develop a crispy golden crust, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step.

Can I prepare this recipe without butter?

You can substitute butter with olive oil or a dairy-free alternative, but butter adds richness and a silky texture that’s key to this dish’s taste.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

What herbs work best in Baked Lemon Butter Chicken?

Fresh parsley, thyme, and rosemary are classic choices, but you can experiment with basil or oregano to suit your taste.

Final Thoughts

With its beautiful balance of bright lemon and rich butter flavors, Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a recipe that quickly becomes a household favorite. Simple to prepare yet luxurious in taste, it’s the perfect dish for those busy evenings when you want something impressive but fuss-free. Give it a try and watch your dinner guests ask for seconds!

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