There’s something about the combination of lemon, butter, and juicy chicken that just feels like a warm hug on a plate. This Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a total weeknight winner—simple to make, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. The tangy brightness of fresh lemon pairs perfectly with rich, buttery goodness, creating a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing.
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Whether you’re whipping this up for a quick family dinner, meal-prepping for the week, or impressing guests with minimal effort, this recipe has you covered. Trust me, you’re going to love it!
Why You’ll Love Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile
Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time.
Budget-Friendly
Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items—this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors.
Quick and Easy
Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one’s for you.
Customizable
Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. Add a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick or swap out the herbs for a new flavor twist.
Crowd-Pleasing
A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when one dish can satisfy everyone at the table!
Ingredients in Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
Here’s the magic of this dish—it’s made with just a few pantry staples, but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. Let’s break it down:
Chicken Breasts: The star of the show. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts become melt-in-your-mouth tender as they soak up all those dreamy flavors.
Butter: Adds richness and helps create that luscious, golden sauce.
Garlic: Because everything’s better with a little garlic. It brings warmth and depth to every bite.
Lemon Juice: The fresh citrusy zing cuts through the richness, making every bite bright and flavorful.
Chicken Broth: Enhances the sauce and keeps the chicken moist while baking.
Italian Seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs that adds a touch of earthy goodness.
Salt and Pepper: The simple but essential seasoning duo.
Fresh Parsley: Optional, but it adds a pop of color and fresh flavor at the end!
(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures even cooking and gives your dish the right texture.
Prepare the Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in the lemon juice and chicken broth, letting the flavors meld together.
Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Assemble the Dish
Place the chicken in a baking dish and pour the buttery lemon sauce over the top. Make sure each piece is well-coated.
Bake to Perfection
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Finishing Touches
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra burst of flavor.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve warm with your favorite sides and enjoy!
How to Serve Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Fresh Salads: Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up that buttery sauce.
- Creamy Accompaniments: Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a side of mashed potatoes.
- Vegetable Sides: Roasted carrots, zucchini, or asparagus complement the dish beautifully.
- As a Standalone: Simply garnish with fresh herbs and enjoy on its own!
Additional Tips
- Prep Ahead: Save time by chopping and measuring ingredients the night before.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for extra heat.
- Dietary Adjustments: Swap butter for olive oil or use gluten-free seasonings as needed.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Double the Batch: This recipe freezes beautifully—perfect for meal prep!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A1: Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time since thighs may take a few minutes longer.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can prep the chicken and sauce in advance and bake it fresh when ready.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Of course! Just use a larger baking dish and ensure even sauce coverage.
Q7: What if I don’t have fresh lemons?
A7: You can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch, but fresh lemons give the best flavor.
Q8: Can I make this dairy-free?
A8: Yes! Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative or olive oil.
Q9: What sides go best with this dish?
A9: Roasted vegetables, rice, or a light pasta work perfectly!
Q10: Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?
A10: Yes! Sear the chicken in a pan, then simmer in the sauce until fully cooked.
Final Thoughts
Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is one of those magical dishes that feels fancy but is secretly effortless. It’s rich, zesty, and oh-so-satisfying—perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your rotation.
Print
Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4–5 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a rich and flavorful dish perfect for an easy dinner. Tender chicken is baked in a creamy, buttery sauce infused with garlic, lemon, and Parmesan, creating a delicious balance of zest and richness. Serve this dish with a side of roasted veggies or a fresh salad for a complete meal. A must-try for those who love quick high-protein meals, healthy recipes, and easy dinner recipes with ground beef alternatives.
Ingredients
Meat:
- 10 pieces of chicken
- 1 tablespoon chicken spice mix
Veggies & Aromatics:
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon garlic, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, chopped
Sauce:
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/3 cup cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Place chicken pieces in a baking dish and season with chicken spice mix, salt, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.
- In a small bowl, mix chopped parsley, garlic, and red onion. Spread this mixture over the chicken.
- In another bowl, whisk together chicken stock, lemon juice, melted butter, and cream. Pour the sauce over the chicken and veggies.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until chicken is golden and fully cooked.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For a lower-carb option, serve with roasted veggies or a fresh green salad.
- Add extra red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 95mg