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Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

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Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a delicious and easy dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, buttery lemon sauce. The bright citrus flavor enhances the savory chicken, while garlic and herbs add depth to the dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is both simple and full of flavor.

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken this Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to make – Just a few simple steps and minimal prep time.
  • Packed with flavor – The combination of butter, lemon, and garlic creates a rich, tangy taste.
  • Versatile – Pair it with rice, pasta, or veggies for a complete meal.
  • Healthy and light – This dish is baked instead of fried, making it a lighter option.
  • Perfect for meal prep – Stores well and reheats beautifully.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Chicken breasts or thighs
  • Butter
  • Fresh lemon juice
  • Garlic, minced
  • Chicken broth
  • Olive oil
  • Italian seasoning
  • Paprika
  • Salt and pepper
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish lightly with olive oil.
  2. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
  3. Prepare the lemon butter sauce by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice and chicken broth.
  4. Place the chicken in the prepared baking dish and pour the lemon butter sauce over it.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  6. Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for a golden, slightly crispy top (optional).
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite side dishes.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for extra heat.
  • Creamy Option: Stir in a splash of heavy cream into the sauce before baking for a richer texture.
  • Herb-Infused: Use fresh rosemary or thyme for a more aromatic dish.
  • Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables instead of pasta or regular rice.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
  • Freezing: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and stay juicier during baking.

What should I serve with baked lemon butter chicken?

It pairs well with rice, pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative like vegan butter or olive oil.

How can I add more lemon flavor?

Use lemon zest in addition to lemon juice for extra citrusy brightness.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth and seasonings.

Can I marinate the chicken in the sauce before baking?

Yes, marinate for at least 30 minutes for deeper flavor.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Reduce it on the stovetop for a few minutes before pouring it over the chicken.

Can I cook this dish in a skillet instead of baking?

Yes, you can cook the chicken on the stovetop over medium heat until fully cooked.

What can I use instead of chicken broth?

You can use vegetable broth, white wine, or even water with a bit of extra seasoning.

Conclusion

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tangy lemon, rich butter, and aromatic garlic, it’s a meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a must-try. Enjoy it with your favorite sides and savor the delicious flavors.

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Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

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  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free
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Description

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a quick and easy recipe that combines tender chicken with a rich, buttery lemon sauce. The dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a healthy, flavorful meal with just a few ingredients. Garlic, lemon, and Italian seasoning enhance the taste, making it a versatile and satisfying option for any meal.

Ingredients

  1. Chicken Breasts or Thighs

    • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 1.5 to 2 lbs total)

  2. Butter

    • 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter

  3. Fresh Lemon Juice

    • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 medium lemon)

  4. Garlic (minced)

    • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  5. Chicken Broth

    • 1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium is recommended)

  6. Olive Oil

    • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)

  7. Italian Seasoning

    • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

  8. Paprika

    • 1 teaspoon paprika

  9. Salt and Pepper

    • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
    • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)

  10. Fresh Parsley (for garnish)

  • 1–2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
  • Season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
  • Prepare the lemon butter sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice and chicken broth.
  • Place the chicken in the prepared baking dish, then pour the lemon butter sauce over it.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  • Optional: Broil for 2-3 minutes for a golden, slightly crispy top.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite side dishes.

Notes

  • For extra heat, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
  • For a creamy texture, stir in heavy cream into the sauce.
  • You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for juicier results.
  • This dish is naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free with vegan butter or olive oil.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

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