Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Table of Contents

This Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a simple yet delicious dish bursting with bright lemony flavors balanced by rich, buttery goodness. The chicken is juicy, tender, and infused with herbs and spices, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe is easy to prepare, requiring just a few simple ingredients, and pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon slices (for garnish)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to fit the chicken breasts in a single layer.
Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and thyme.
Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
Combine and Bake
Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish. Pour the lemon butter mixture evenly over the chicken. Add lemon slices on top for an extra burst of flavor.
Bake
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the chicken with the sauce halfway through baking for extra flavor and juiciness.
Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve with roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or carrots.
Pair with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or quinoa.
A light garden salad or garlic bread makes a great side option.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: ~320
Protein: 28g
Fat: 20g (Saturated Fat: 9g)
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 450mg

Tips & Notes:

Tender Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to even thickness for consistent cooking.
Extra Flavor: Marinate the chicken for 30 minutes for deeper lemon and herb infusion.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to keep the chicken juicy.
Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.

Health Benefits:

High Protein: Excellent source of lean protein for muscle repair and growth.
Rich in Vitamins: Lemon provides Vitamin C, boosting immunity.
Low Carb: Suitable for low-carb and keto diets.
Heart Health: Oregano and thyme contain antioxidants that support heart health.

Q&A:

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great and stay juicy. Adjust the baking time accordingly, as thighs may take slightly longer to cook.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can marinate the chicken a few hours before or even overnight for enhanced flavor. Bake when ready to serve.

Q: What can I use instead of butter?
A: Olive oil or ghee can be used as a healthier alternative, though the flavor will slightly differ.

Q: Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?
A: Absolutely! Add veggies like asparagus, green beans, or zucchini to the pan. They’ll soak up the delicious lemon butter sauce.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
A: Use a meat thermometer. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

This Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy the vibrant lemony taste and the rich, buttery sauce with your favorite side dishes.