Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

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Introduction

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a flavorful and juicy chicken dish that combines the richness of butter with the bright, zesty flavors of lemon. The chicken is coated in a mouthwatering lemon butter sauce that keeps it tender and moist while adding a burst of citrusy freshness.

I remember the first time I made this for a cozy dinner at home, and the aroma of lemon and butter filled the kitchen—it was absolutely irresistible. The combination of the creamy, buttery sauce and the tangy lemon creates a perfect harmony of flavors, making each bite incredibly satisfying. This easy-to-make, oven-baked dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

What’s so wonderful about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a comforting, elegant meal that tastes like it took hours to make. Whether served with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a side of rice, Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is sure to be a hit with family and guests alike.

Perfect for:

  • Family dinners
  • Weeknight meals
  • Special occasions
  • Citrus and chicken lovers
  • Easy one-pan meals

Why You’ll Love This Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Here’s why Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is sure to become a staple in your kitchen:

  • Flavorful and Tender Chicken: The lemon butter sauce infuses the chicken with a tangy, buttery flavor while keeping it incredibly moist and tender.
  • Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is easy to prepare yet delivers impressive results.
  • Oven-Baked Convenience: No need to stand over the stove – everything is baked in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
  • Versatile: You can serve it with rice, pasta, vegetables, or potatoes to make a complete meal that suits any taste.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re looking for a quick, flavorful dinner.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 35 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 5g, Fat: 25g

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Baked Lemon Butter Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are used for their lean, tender meat, which works perfectly with the lemon butter sauce.
  • Butter and Olive Oil: The butter adds richness and flavor, while the olive oil ensures the chicken stays moist and doesn’t dry out in the oven.
  • Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest provide a zesty, citrusy kick that balances the richness of the butter and creates a bright, refreshing flavor profile.
  • Garlic: Minced garlic adds an aromatic depth to the sauce and complements the citrus and herbs.
  • Herbs: Thyme and oregano are perfect companions for the lemon and garlic, giving the dish an earthy, herby finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Baked Lemon Butter Chicken:

Prepare the Chicken and Sauce:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the chicken brown and cook evenly.
  4. Coat the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Pour the lemon butter sauce over the chicken, making sure to coat each piece evenly. For extra flavor, spoon some of the sauce over the top of the chicken breasts.

Bake the Chicken:

  1. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is golden and slightly crisp on the outside.
  2. Baste the Chicken (Optional): Halfway through cooking, you can baste the chicken with some of the sauce for extra flavor and moisture, although this step is optional.

Finishing Touches:

  1. Garnish and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with your favorite side dishes.

How to Serve Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

  • With Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice or pilaf to soak up the delicious lemon butter sauce.
  • With Vegetables: Pair with roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans for a healthy and satisfying meal.
  • With Mashed Potatoes: The creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for complementing the rich lemon butter sauce.
  • With Salad: Serve with a fresh, light salad for a well-rounded meal. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette works wonderfully.
  • With Pasta: For a heartier meal, serve the chicken with pasta, like spaghetti or fettuccine, and drizzle the sauce over the noodles.

Additional Tips for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Here are some tips to ensure your Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is perfect every time:

  • Use Fresh Lemon: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest provide a much better flavor than bottled juice, so try to use fresh lemons if possible.
  • Check the Chicken’s Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should read 165°F (75°C) when done.
  • Don’t Overcook: Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as this will result in dry meat. The chicken should be tender and juicy.
  • Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have time, marinate the chicken in the lemon butter sauce for 30 minutes to an hour before baking. This will infuse the chicken with even more flavor.
  • Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a more tangy lemon flavor, add an extra tablespoon of lemon juice or zest. For a richer sauce, you can increase the butter slightly.
  • Customize the Herbs: Feel free to adjust the herbs to your liking. Fresh thyme or rosemary would work beautifully in place of dried thyme.

Recipe Variations for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Here are 10 variations you can try for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken:

  1. Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Add grated Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken breasts during the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy, crispy finish.
  2. Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs: Swap the chicken breasts for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for extra flavor and juiciness.
  3. Lemon Basil Chicken: Add chopped fresh basil to the sauce for an aromatic twist.
  4. Spicy Lemon Butter Chicken: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.
  5. Lemon Coconut Chicken: Replace the butter with coconut oil and add shredded coconut to the sauce for a tropical twist.
  6. Lemon Rosemary Chicken: Use fresh rosemary in place of the thyme for a fragrant, earthy flavor.
  7. Lemon Dijon Chicken: Stir in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the lemon butter sauce for a tangy, slightly creamy addition.
  8. Lemon Maple Chicken: Add a tablespoon of maple syrup to the sauce for a sweet contrast to the tangy lemon.
  9. Lemon Ginger Chicken: Add grated fresh ginger to the sauce for a touch of warmth and spice.
  10. Lemon Parmesan Chicken with Vegetables: Add your favorite vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, around the chicken in the baking dish for a one-pan meal.

Freezing and Storage for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

  • Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat by baking in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Special Equipment for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Baked Lemon Butter Chicken easier:

  • Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer ensures that the chicken is cooked to the perfect internal temperature (165°F / 75°C).
  • Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized pan works well for baking the chicken.
  • Whisk: Use a whisk to thoroughly combine the lemon butter sauce ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

  1. Can I use bone-in chicken breasts?
    Yes, bone-in chicken breasts will work, but you may need to increase the cooking time by 5-10 minutes to ensure they cook through.
  2. Can I substitute the butter with olive oil?
    Yes, you can use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter version of this recipe.
  3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
    Yes, chicken thighs are a great substitute and will give the dish a richer flavor. Adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a little longer to cook.
  4. Can I add vegetables to the dish?
    Absolutely! You can add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers to the baking dish. They will cook in the lemon butter sauce and absorb the delicious flavors.
  5. How do I make this dish spicier?
    Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce to give it a spicy kick.

Conclusion

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a deliciously simple and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The chicken is perfectly cooked, tender, and juicy, while the lemon butter sauce adds a zesty and comforting touch that elevates the entire meal. The bright citrusy flavor of the lemon pairs beautifully with the richness of the butter, creating a balance that’s both fresh and indulgent.

Whether you serve it with a side of vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad, this dish is versatile enough to complement many sides. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but elegant enough to serve at a special dinner. The combination of easy preparation and delicious results will quickly make it a go-to favorite.

I’d love to see how your Baked Lemon Butter Chicken turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see your tasty creations. Happy cooking!