Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

by

Introduction

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is the perfect dish for anyone craving a juicy, flavorful chicken dinner with a burst of citrusy brightness. The combination of tangy lemon and rich butter creates a sauce that’s both light and indulgent, while keeping the chicken moist and tender as it bakes. It’s a simple recipe that elevates chicken to a whole new level of deliciousness.

I first tried Baked Lemon Butter Chicken on a lazy evening when I wanted something flavorful yet easy to make. With just a few ingredients—lemon, butter, garlic, and a little seasoning—I was able to create a dish that felt both comforting and elegant. The lemon zest and juice perfectly cut through the richness of the butter, giving the chicken a fresh, vibrant flavor. What I love most about this recipe is how effortlessly it transforms a basic chicken breast into something special, and how the leftovers are just as good the next day. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like a gourmet chef without the work!

Perfect for:

  • Busy weeknights
  • Family dinners
  • Special occasions
  • Chicken lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why this Baked Lemon Butter Chicken will be a hit:

  • Burst of Flavor: The zesty lemon and rich butter create an irresistible sauce.
  • Tender and Juicy: The chicken stays moist and flavorful throughout cooking.
  • Easy to Make: Minimal prep and simple ingredients make this a stress-free recipe.
  • One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one pan for easy cleanup.
  • Versatile: Pairs well with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike.
  • Make-Ahead Option: Prep ahead and bake when ready.
  • Customizable: Adjust the level of lemon or add fresh herbs to suit your taste.
  • Low-Carb Friendly: A great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
  • Impressive Presentation: A simple yet elegant dish that looks great on the table.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 35 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 5g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Lemon Butter Sauce:

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Lemon slices

Ingredient Highlights

  • Fresh Lemon Juice: Provides a bright, tangy flavor.
  • Garlic: Adds depth and aromatic richness to the sauce.
  • Butter: Ensures a smooth, velvety texture for the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

  1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Season Chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  3. Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:

  1. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Add Liquid Ingredients: Stir in chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring to a simmer.
  3. Season the Sauce: Add thyme and honey, if using. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Bake the Chicken:

  1. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some sauce over each piece.
  2. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Serve:

  1. Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. Serve with your favorite sides.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken:

  • With Steamed Rice: The lemon butter sauce pairs beautifully with fluffy rice.
  • Over Pasta: Spoon the sauce over cooked pasta for a complete meal.
  • With Roasted Veggies: Serve alongside roasted asparagus, broccoli, or carrots.
  • With Mashed Potatoes: The creamy potatoes soak up the flavorful sauce.
  • As a Salad Topper: Slice the chicken and serve over a fresh green salad.
  • With Quinoa or Couscous: A lighter grain option that complements the dish.
  • With Garlic Bread: Use bread to soak up every bit of the sauce.
  • As a Sandwich: Serve in a toasted bun with lettuce and tomato for a quick sandwich.
  • With Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb side that works perfectly with the sauce.
  • With Grilled Corn: Add a touch of sweetness with grilled corn on the cob.

Additional Tips

  • Marinate for Deeper Flavor: Let the chicken marinate in the lemon butter sauce for 30 minutes to an hour before baking to enhance the flavor.
  • Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice offers a brighter and more vibrant taste than bottled juice.
  • Pound Chicken Evenly: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for consistent cooking and juicier results.
  • Add Herbs for a Twist: Enhance the dish by adding fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the sauce.
  • Try Bone-In Chicken: Bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks stay juicier and absorb the buttery lemon flavor beautifully.
  • Sear for Crispy Skin: For extra texture, quickly sear the chicken in a hot skillet before baking.
  • Don’t Skip the Basting: Spoon the sauce over the chicken halfway through baking to keep it moist and flavorful.
  • Make It Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream to the lemon butter sauce for a richer, creamier version.
  • Pair with Roasted Veggies: Bake vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or zucchini alongside the chicken for a complete meal.
  • Garnish with Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the chicken before serving for a pop of color and a fresh finish.

Recipe Variations

  • Herb Variations: Use rosemary, basil, or oregano instead of thyme.
  • Spicy Lemon Butter Chicken: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a richer sauce.
  • Parmesan Crust: Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the chicken before baking for a cheesy topping.
  • Sheet Pan Version: Add sliced potatoes or vegetables to the skillet for a one-pan meal.
  • Grilled Option: Grill the chicken and serve with the lemon butter sauce on the side.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients, including chicken broth, are gluten-free.
  • Citrus Twist: Use a mix of lemon and orange juice for a sweeter citrus flavor.
  • Honey Mustard Lemon Chicken: Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy twist.
  • Mediterranean Style: Garnish with olives, capers, and sun-dried tomatoes.

Special Equipment

  • Oven-Safe Skillet: Essential for searing and baking in one pan.
  • Zester: To easily zest lemons for the sauce.
  • Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked chicken.
  • Silicone Spatula: For scraping up sauce and mixing ingredients.
  • Basting Brush: Optional for brushing sauce over chicken during cooking.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
    Yes, chicken thighs work well and stay extra juicy. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
  2. Can I make this dairy-free?
    Substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative, like olive oil or vegan butter.
  3. How do I store leftovers?
    Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  4. Can I freeze this dish?
    Yes, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
  5. What sides pair best with this dish?
    Steamed veggies, mashed potatoes, or a simple side salad are great options.
  6. How do I thicken the sauce?
    Simmer the sauce longer or stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
  7. Can I use bottled lemon juice?
    Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled works in a pinch.
  8. What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
    Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or on the stovetop over low heat.
  9. Can I make this spicy?
    Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for some heat.
  10. What’s the best way to serve this dish for a crowd?
    Double the recipe and bake in a large casserole dish for easy serving.

Conclusion

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a simple yet elegant dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich, tangy lemon butter sauce. The bright citrus flavor balances perfectly with the creamy butter, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s both fresh and comforting. Whether served with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad, this chicken is sure to impress and satisfy.

This recipe is incredibly easy to make, with minimal prep time and a fuss-free baking process. The chicken becomes incredibly tender as it bakes in the flavorful lemon butter sauce, making every bite a burst of deliciousness. You can also customize the dish by adding herbs like rosemary or thyme, or a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra richness.

I’m excited to see how your Baked Lemon Butter Chicken turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!