Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
Introduction
• Looking for a savory, citrus-infused chicken dinner that practically melts in your mouth? Look no further than Baked Lemon Butter Chicken. This recipe combines juicy baked chicken with the bold flavors of fresh lemon, garlic, herbs, and creamy butter sauce—all baked to golden perfection.
• Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and deeply satisfying. Let’s dive into everything you need to make it flawless every time.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: lemon slices for presentation
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the lemon butter sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Place chicken breasts in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated.
- Top with optional lemon slices for extra flavor and presentation.
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Baste with sauce from the pan halfway through cooking for more flavor.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
- • Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
- • Pair with rice or pasta to soak up the lemon butter sauce.
- • Add crusty bread on the side to mop up every drop of sauce.
Storage and Reheating
- • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- • Reheat in the oven at 325°F (163°C) until warmed through or microwave in short bursts.
- • Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months for easy meal prep.
Conclusion
• Baked Lemon Butter Chicken brings together simplicity and gourmet flavor in one delicious dish. It’s zesty, buttery, and loaded with garlic and herbs—the kind of comfort food that always hits the spot.
• With minimal prep and bold results, this recipe is sure to earn a spot in your weekly rotation. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless thighs work great—just adjust the baking time as they may cook faster.
2. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and marinate the chicken in the sauce a day in advance and bake when ready.
3. What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
You can substitute with a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme.
4. Can I make this dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free butter substitute like olive oil or plant-based butter.
5. How do I keep the chicken from drying out?
Do not overbake! Use a meat thermometer and baste the chicken with sauce halfway through baking.
