Baked Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a rich, tangy, and buttery lemon sauce. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The bright, fresh taste of lemon pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of the chicken, while the buttery sauce adds richness and depth to each bite. Easy to make and with just a few ingredients, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.

Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this Baked Lemon Butter Chicken offers a satisfying meal that’s both comforting and light. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility – you can easily customize it with herbs, spices, or side dishes to suit your preferences. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step of the recipe, provide helpful tips, and suggest some delicious variations to try.

Why You’ll Love Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

• Fresh, Zesty Flavor: The lemon provides a bright, citrusy kick, while the butter adds a smooth, rich texture, creating a balanced and flavorful sauce.
• Tender and Juicy Chicken: Baking the chicken in the flavorful lemon butter sauce ensures that it stays moist and tender throughout the cooking process. No dry, overcooked chicken here!
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is quick and hassle-free. Even novice cooks can enjoy making this dish with confidence.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re preparing a quick family dinner, hosting a gathering, or cooking for a special celebration, this dish is sure to impress. It’s versatile enough to be paired with a variety of sides, making it perfect for any occasion.
• Healthier Alternative: Using lean chicken breasts and a light buttery sauce makes this dish a great option for those looking for a healthier meal without sacrificing flavor.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 300-350 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300-350 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 2-5g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2-3g

Ingredients

For the Baked Lemon Butter Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Special Equipment

Making Baked Lemon Butter Chicken requires minimal equipment, but having a few key items on hand will ensure that everything goes smoothly:

1. Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch baking dish is ideal for this recipe. It’s large enough to fit all the chicken breasts comfortably while allowing the sauce to surround them for even cooking.
2. Mixing Bowl: You’ll need a small mixing bowl to combine the lemon butter sauce ingredients before drizzling it over the chicken.
3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements for the lemon juice, lemon zest, and seasonings are crucial to get the right balance of flavors.
4. Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is highly recommended to ensure the chicken is cooked through without overcooking it.
5. Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: You’ll need these for mincing the garlic, zesting the lemon, and cutting the chicken breasts into uniform portions if necessary.
6. Tongs or Spatula: To transfer the chicken from the baking dish to serving plates once it’s cooked.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, prepare the chicken breasts. If the breasts are particularly thick, you can slice them horizontally to create thinner pieces for quicker cooking. If you prefer, you can also use chicken thighs for a richer, juicier flavor, though the cooking time may vary slightly.

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This will help the seasoning stick better and ensure that the chicken browns nicely in the oven. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. This step adds flavor to the chicken and helps to enhance the overall dish.

2. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

In a small mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Stir well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

The lemon juice provides a tangy, refreshing flavor that pairs perfectly with the buttery richness, while the garlic and herbs add savory notes to the sauce. The olive oil helps to thin out the sauce and creates a smooth texture that coats the chicken beautifully during baking.

3. Arrange the Chicken in the Baking Dish

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a large baking dish. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer to ensure even cooking. If you have any additional seasonings or herbs left over from the chicken, feel free to sprinkle them over the top for added flavor.

Pour the lemon butter sauce over the chicken breasts, ensuring each piece is coated generously with the sauce. Use a spoon or brush to spread the sauce evenly over the chicken if needed. The sauce will melt and mingle with the chicken as it bakes, creating a flavorful coating.

4. Bake the Chicken

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts, so be sure to check the temperature to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

If the top of the chicken begins to brown too quickly, you can cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning, allowing the chicken to continue cooking through without drying out.

5. Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the baking dish from the oven. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the chicken remains moist and tender.

To serve, plate the chicken and drizzle any remaining lemon butter sauce from the baking dish over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrusy freshness.

Tips for Perfect Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

• Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemon juice and zest will provide the brightest, most vibrant flavor. Avoid using bottled lemon juice, as it lacks the fresh, zesty kick that makes this dish so flavorful.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Be sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
• Adjust the Sauce: If you like a more intense lemon flavor, add more lemon juice or zest. For a milder version, reduce the amount of lemon juice or add extra butter to balance the acidity.
• Add Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs work well in this recipe, fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil can elevate the flavor even more. Add them to the sauce or sprinkle them on top of the chicken before serving for a fresh, aromatic finish.
• Use a Shallow Baking Dish: A shallow baking dish ensures that the chicken is evenly exposed to the heat and that the sauce can caramelize beautifully around the edges. If your dish is too deep, the chicken may not cook as evenly.
• Let the Chicken Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after baking ensures it stays juicy. Cutting into it immediately can cause the juices to run out, making the chicken dry.

Variations of Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Vegetables: Add vegetables like baby potatoes, carrots, or green beans to the baking dish along with the chicken. Toss the veggies in the lemon butter sauce for a one-pan meal that’s both hearty and flavorful.
• Lemon Butter Chicken with Capers: For a briny twist, add a tablespoon or two of capers to the lemon butter sauce before baking. The salty, tangy capers complement the lemon flavor and give the dish a Mediterranean flair.
• Spicy Lemon Butter Chicken: For some heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the lemon butter sauce. The heat balances the citrusy zing of the lemon for an extra kick.
• Lemon Butter Chicken with Cream: For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the lemon butter sauce before baking. This creates a rich, velvety sauce that coats the chicken perfectly.
• Grilled Lemon Butter Chicken: For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken instead of baking it. Brush the chicken with the lemon butter sauce while grilling for a deliciously charred finish.

Storage and Shelf Life

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the microwave or warm it in a low-temperature oven (around 300°F or 150°C) until heated through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the baked chicken. Place the cooled chicken breasts in a freezer-safe container or bag, along with the sauce, and freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, place the chicken in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Pair this flavorful chicken with a variety of side dishes to complete the meal:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with the rich lemon butter sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts complement the citrusy flavor of the chicken and add a healthy, satisfying element to the meal.
• Rice Pilaf: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice pilaf for a hearty and delicious meal.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp, refreshing Caesar salad balances the richness of the chicken and provides a light, tangy contrast.
• Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of bread is perfect for sopping up the extra lemon butter sauce from the baking dish.

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Conclusion

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that brings together the perfect balance of tangy lemon, rich butter, and savory chicken. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this recipe is sure to impress. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can enjoy a flavorful, juicy chicken dish in under an hour. Try it with your favorite side dishes, and enjoy the bright, buttery goodness that makes this meal a true standout!