Introduction
If you’re looking for a delectable and easy-to-make dish that combines the zesty flavor of lemon with the richness of butter, look no further than Baked Lemon Butter Chicken. This dish promises tender, juicy chicken infused with a tangy garlic butter sauce, making it perfect for dinner any night of the week.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 6 chicken thighs)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
– 1 tablespoon honey (for a touch of sweetness)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
For Garnish:
– Fresh parsley or thyme
– Lemon slices
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
25-30 minutes
Total Time
40-45 minutes
Yield
4 servings
Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare:
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or butter.
2. Season the Chicken:
– Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
3. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:
– In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, red pepper flakes (if using), honey, and chicken broth.
4. Assemble & Bake:
– Place the seasoned chicken in the prepared baking dish. Pour the lemon butter sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Arrange lemon slices around the chicken for added flavor. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Broil for a Golden Finish (Optional):
– For a lightly browned top, broil on high for 2-3 minutes.
6. Garnish & Serve:
– Sprinkle with fresh parsley or thyme before serving. Serve hot with rice, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
Notes
– For extra juiciness, you can substitute chicken breasts with boneless chicken thighs.
– Adding Parmesan cheese on top before baking can provide a cheesy twist.
– If using bone-in chicken, increase the bake time to 35–40 minutes.
Enjoy this simple, flavorful, and comforting dish that’s sure to impress at any gathering or family dinner!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat & Prepare:
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or butter.
Season the Chicken:
– Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
– Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:
– In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, red pepper flakes (if using), honey, and chicken broth.
Assemble & Bake:
– Place the seasoned chicken in the prepared baking dish.
– Pour the lemon butter sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
– Arrange lemon slices around the chicken for added flavor.
– Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Broil for a Golden Finish (Optional):
– For a lightly browned top, broil on high for 2-3 minutes.
Garnish & Serve:
– Sprinkle with fresh parsley or thyme before serving.
– Serve hot with rice, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
Notes
Juiciness:
– For extra juiciness, you can substitute chicken breasts with boneless chicken thighs.
Cheesy Twist:
– Adding Parmesan cheese on top before baking can provide a cheesy twist.
Bone-In Chicken:
– If using bone-in chicken, increase the bake time to 35–40 minutes.
Cook Techniques
Seasoning Chicken
Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure the spices adhere better and enhance flavor absorption.
Making the Sauce
Whisk the melted butter with fresh ingredients to create a flavorful sauce that keeps the chicken moist during baking.
Baking Chicken
Bake the chicken uncovered to allow the top to brown slightly and develop a nice texture while keeping the inside moist.
Broiling for Finish
Broil briefly at the end to achieve a golden, slightly crispy top, enhancing the visual appeal and texture of the chicken.
Garnishing
Add fresh herbs and lemon slices as a garnish for added flavor and a bright presentation before serving.
FAQ
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but you will need to increase the baking time to ensure it cooks through properly.
What can I serve with baked lemon butter chicken?
This dish pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes to complement the flavorful sauce.
Can I prepare the lemon butter sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just warm it up slightly before using.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Yes, you can add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat level.
Can I substitute the butter with olive oil for a healthier option?
Yes, you can substitute olive oil for butter, but the flavor profile will be different, and it may not be as rich.
Conclusion
This Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a delightful fusion of zesty lemon and rich butter, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish that is both comforting and easy to prepare. Perfectly baked and garnished, it can elevate any meal and is sure to impress your family and guests. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and simplicity of this recipe in the comfort of your home.
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