Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with tangy citrus and rich butter flavor, look no further than Baked Lemon Butter Chicken. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between zesty freshness and silky comfort, creating an easy-to-make meal that feels both elegant and homey. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, baked lemon butter chicken promises to delight your taste buds and impress your guests with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity at its best: Requires only a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.
• Flavorful and fresh: The lemon juice and zest provide a vibrant tang that complements the rich butter perfectly.
• Hands-off cooking: Just bake it in the oven and enjoy the aromas while it cooks.
• Versatile meal: Works well with various side dishes and ingredients to suit your mood.
• Juicy, tender results: Baking locks in moisture, making every bite succulent and delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Baked Lemon Butter Chicken lies in using simple, fresh ingredients that bring out bold flavors. Each component adds its own charm, from the acidity of lemon to the richness of butter and the mildness of tender chicken breasts or thighs.

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts or thighs provide a tender, juicy base.
• Fresh lemon juice: Adds bright citrus notes that cut through the richness beautifully.
• Butter: Creates a luscious sauce with a silky texture.
• Garlic: Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic depth.
• Herbs: Fresh parsley or thyme gives a pop of color and fresh flavor.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every bite.
• Olive oil: Helps in browning and adds a layer of subtle fruitiness.

Variations for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, making it simple to tweak based on your favorite flavors or dietary needs. Feel free to experiment and find your perfect version!

• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts: For extra juiciness and more intense flavor.
• Add capers: Introduce a salty, briny kick to the lemon butter sauce.
• Incorporate vegetables: Toss in cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or green beans for a one-pan meal.
• Swap butter for ghee: A great option for those sensitive to dairy but still want that buttery richness.
• Gluten-free twist: Simply ensure all added ingredients like broth or seasonings are gluten-free.

How to Make Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by whisking together melted butter, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, a pinch of salt, pepper, and chopped herbs. This mixture will become the flavorful bath your chicken soaks in.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts or thighs in a shallow dish and pour over the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse deeply.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven and Prep the Pan

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or the remaining butter for added richness and to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Arrange the marinated chicken in the dish, spoon some of the extra marinade over the top, and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce bubbles nicely.

Step 5: Broil for a Golden Finish (Optional)

If you love a crispy, golden top, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes but watch carefully to avoid burning.

Pro Tips for Making Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

• Use fresh lemons: Fresh juice and zest make a huge difference over bottled lemon juice.
• Don’t skip marinating: Even a brief marination time elevates flavor and tenderness.
• Room temperature chicken: Let the chicken sit out for 15 minutes before baking for more even cooking.
• Watch the baking time: Overcooked chicken becomes dry, so check doneness early.
• Brush with butter mid-bake: Adding a little extra butter halfway through baking keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful.

How to Serve Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme right before serving to brighten the look and add a touch of herbaceous flavor. Thin lemon slices or zest curls also add a beautiful, fresh finish.

Side Dishes

This lemon butter chicken pairs excellently with light sides such as roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or steamed rice. For a healthier plate, try green beans almondine or a crisp garden salad on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the chicken on a large wooden board for a rustic look or alongside a vibrant colorful salad in a shallow bowl to showcase the beautiful sauce and herbs. You can also drizzle the leftover buttery lemon sauce on the sides for extra sauciness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days. The sauce helps keep the chicken moist when reheated.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked Baked Lemon Butter Chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To avoid texture changes, freeze without any added fresh herbs or lemon zest.

Reheating

For best results, reheat gently in a low oven or microwave with a small splash of water or broth to keep the chicken from drying out. Cover with foil when heating in the oven to lock in moisture.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken?

Yes, bone-in chicken works well but will require a longer baking time to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?

While not mandatory, marinating helps infuse the chicken with lemon and garlic flavors, making the dish more flavorful and tender.

Can I use lemon zest instead of juice?

Lemon zest adds an intense aromatic flavor, but using both zest and juice gives the best balance of tartness and brightness.

What sides go best with Baked Lemon Butter Chicken?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or a fresh green salad all complement the rich and zesty flavors beautifully.

How do I keep the chicken juicy and not dry?

A quick marination, careful baking time, and brushing with butter during baking help maintain juiciness throughout the cooking process.

Final Thoughts

If you want a dish that feels both indulgent and refreshingly light, give Baked Lemon Butter Chicken a try. With its bright lemon tang and buttery richness, it’s the kind of meal you’ll want to make again and again. Trust me, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that transforms simple ingredients into a memorable dinner experience.

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