Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the sun dips below the horizon and the scent of something incredible wafts through the air, I find myself transported to my childhood kitchen, where comfort food reigned supreme. Today, I’m excited to share my Baked Lemon Butter Chicken, a dish that embodies warmth and family gatherings with every bite. This easy-to-follow recipe brings together the zesty brightness of lemon and the richness of butter, making it an absolutely scrumptious choice for a stress-free Sunday dinner. Not only is it family-friendly, but it also boasts a fall-off-the-bone texture that’s sure to impress. So, why settle for another night of takeout when you can whip up this delightful chicken dish that fills your home with irresistible aromas? Ready to indulge in a culinary hug? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe! Why is Baked Lemon Butter Chicken a must-try? Flavor Explosion: The bright notes of lemon paired with rich butter create a delightfully balanced dish that’s hard to resist. Effortless Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can shine in the kitchen. Family Favorite: This recipe is perfect for gatherings, appealing to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy. Perfectly Moist Chicken: You’ll get tender, juicy chicken with crispy skin, elevating your weeknight dinner to a gourmet experience. Easy Pairing Ideas: Serve alongside fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal that everyone will love. Try this dish, and see if it beats out your favorite Garlic Butter Chicken or Peanut Butter Chicken! Baked Lemon Butter Chicken Ingredients • For the Chicken Dark Meat Chicken Pieces – Use drumsticks or thighs for extra tenderness and rich flavor, trimming any excess fat. Kosher Salt (2 tsp) – Enhances overall flavor and helps to tenderize the chicken. Chicken Stock (1 cup) – Provides moisture and enhances flavor; feel free to substitute with vegetable stock for a lighter option. • For the Seasoning Smoked Paprika (1 tbsp) – Adds a smoky depth and appealing color; regular paprika works as a substitute if needed. Montreal Chicken Seasoning (1 tbsp) – Brings savory seasoning; feel free to use your favorite chicken seasoning as an alternative. Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 tsp) – Adds a gentle heat; omit if you prefer a milder dish. • For the Aromatics Red Onion (1/2 cup, minced) – Introduces sweetness and texture; yellow onion makes a suitable substitute. Garlic (1 tbsp, minced) – Provides aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is recommended for the best taste. Flat Leaf Parsley (1/2 cup, chopped) – Adds freshness and color; other herbs like thyme or rosemary are delightful alternatives. • For the Sauce Butter (2 tbsp) – Enhances richness and moisture; choose unsalted for better control over saltiness. Fresh Lemon Juice (1 tbsp) – Bright acidity balances flavors, with freshly squeezed juice being the best choice. Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese (1 cup) – Adds creaminess and depth; a dairy-free alternative is available for those avoiding dairy. Heavy Whipping Cream (1/3 cup) – Makes the sauce richer; can be replaced with non-dairy cream or omitted for a lighter option. Baking this Baked Lemon Butter Chicken will bring joy to your kitchen and smile to your family’s faces—comfort food at its finest! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken Step 1: Prep the Chicken Start by trimming excess fat from the dark meat chicken pieces, choosing drumsticks or thighs for maximum tenderness. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 teaspoons of kosher salt, 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika, 1 tablespoon of Montreal chicken seasoning, 2 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, and ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Toss in the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated, and let it marinate while you prepare the rest of the dish. Step 2: Layer Ingredients Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, spread ½ cup of minced red onion and ½ cup of chopped flat-leaf parsley evenly across the bottom. Next, arrange the marinated chicken pieces on top, ensuring they are spaced apart for even cooking. Pour in 1 cup of chicken stock and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, allowing the liquids to seep into the layered ingredients. Step 3: Bake Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture during baking. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and juices run clear when pierced. You may check the doneness by observing the chicken’s internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C). Step 4: Add Finishing Touches In the last 15 minutes of baking, remove the foil and sprinkle 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken for a creamy finish. For an extra crispy skin, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake uncovered for a shorter time, ensuring the cheese melts beautifully and forms a golden crust. Step 5: Serve Once your Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is finished baking, let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is succulent. Serve with fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the tantalizing lemony butter sauce, bringing everyone together for a delightful family meal. Expert Tips for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken Room Temperature Chicken: Ensure the chicken pieces are at room temperature before baking; this promotes even cooking and better texture. Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety. Spacing is Key: Avoid overcrowding the baking dish; this ensures that the Baked Lemon Butter Chicken cooks evenly and stays moist. Broil for Extra Crispness: For a crispy finish, broil the dish for the last few minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste, while keeping the key ingredients of this flavorful chicken intact. Baked Lemon Butter Chicken Variations Embrace your culinary creativity and customize this delicious recipe to suit your tastes and dietary preferences! Chicken Breasts: Substitute dark meat with chicken breasts for a lighter option; just adjust baking time as needed for tenderness. Fresh Herbs: Experiment with thyme or rosemary for a fresh twist; their earthy flavors beautifully complement the lemony essence. Olive Oil: Swap butter for extra-virgin olive oil to create a lighter, dairy-free version; it adds a lovely fruitiness to the dish. Vegetable Stock: Replace chicken stock with vegetable stock for a vegetarian-friendly base; the flavors will still shine through. Onion Varieties: Use yellow or shallots instead of red onion for a milder sweetness; each choice adds a unique layer of flavor. Cream Alternatives: Substitue heavy whipping cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free and slightly sweet alternative, perfect for a tropical twist. Heat Level: Add more red pepper flakes for extra heat or cayenne pepper; it’s a delightful way to spice things up if you enjoy bold flavors. Try pairing this dish with savory sides like Garlic Butter Chicken or zesty Bbq Chicken Tostadas to create a comforting spread that your entire family will adore! How to Store and Freeze Baked Lemon Butter Chicken Fridge: Store leftover Baked Lemon Butter Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep the chicken succulent and delicious for future meals. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best flavor. Reheating: To reheat, place chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–25 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain its moistness. Room Temperature: Avoid leaving Baked Lemon Butter Chicken out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety. What to Serve with Baked Lemon Butter Chicken As you savor the stunning flavors of this dish, let’s explore the perfect accompaniments that will elevate your meal from delightful to memorable. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery, smooth texture of mashed potatoes is perfect for soaking up the delicious lemony sauce. Garlic Butter Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed in garlic butter add a fresh, vibrant touch to your plate. Herb Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned with herbs, these crispy potatoes provide a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken, balancing textures beautifully. Caesar Salad: A crunchy, tangy Caesar salad complements the chicken’s richness, adding a refreshing bite that brightens the entire meal. Buttery Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn on the cob slathered in butter rounds out your dinner with a satisfying sweetness. Lemon Rice Pilaf: Infused with zesty lemon, this fluffy rice pilaf echoes the dish’s main flavors, making every bite harmonious. Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled white wine, perhaps a Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the citrus notes and adds a refreshing contrast. Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light chocolate mousse offers a rich, decadent finish that perfectly balances the meal’s citrusy notes. Explore these pairing ideas and create a vibrant, multi-course experience that will have your family eagerly anticipating dinner each week! Make Ahead Options Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to streamline your weeknight cooking. You can marinate the chicken pieces up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they soak up all that delicious flavor. Just mix the marinade and coat the chicken, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. You can also chop the onions and parsley ahead of time, storing them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, layer everything in your baking dish, add the stock and lemon juice, and bake as directed. This prep ensures your meal remains just as delicious and flavorful without sacrificing quality! Baked Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs How do I select the best chicken pieces for this recipe? Absolutely! For the Baked Lemon Butter Chicken, I recommend using dark meat, such as thighs or drumsticks, as they are tender and flavorful. Look for pieces that have a nice amount of fat for richness, and ensure they are plump and fresh, without any dark spots or unpleasant odors. What are the best storage methods for leftovers? You can store leftover Baked Lemon Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it to maintain moisture. If you’re planning to enjoy it later, reheating in the oven is the way to go! Can I freeze Baked Lemon Butter Chicken? Very! To freeze, allow the chicken to cool, then portion it into airtight freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before gently reheating in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until heated through, ensuring you retain its wonderful flavor and texture. What should I do if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly? If you notice that the chicken is cooking unevenly, it may be due to overcrowding in the baking dish. I recommend ensuring there’s space between the pieces; this allows heat circulation. Alternatively, if you’re using a larger piece like a whole chicken, check the internal temperature in the thickest part, aiming for 165°F. Can I adjust this recipe for dietary restrictions? Absolutely! If you have dietary considerations, you can use skinless chicken breasts for a lighter meal and non-dairy butter or cream substitutes to accommodate lactose intolerance. Additionally, feel free to adjust or omit the red pepper flakes if spice isn’t your preference, or use gluten-free stock if needed. How long can I keep Baked Lemon Butter Chicken at room temperature? It’s best to avoid leaving Baked Lemon Butter Chicken out at room temperature for more than 2 hours for safety concerns. If you plan to serve it, try to keep it warm in the oven on low heat until you’re ready to dish it up—safe and sound! Baked Lemon Butter Chicken: A Zesty Take on Comfort Food This Baked Lemon Butter Chicken combines zesty lemon and rich butter for an unforgettable comfort food experience. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr 45 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 5 minutes mins Servings: 4 piecesCourse: ChickenCuisine: AmericanCalories: 420 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken8 pieces dark meat chicken (drumsticks or thighs) Trim any excess fat.2 tsp kosher salt Enhances flavor and tenderizes chicken.1 cup chicken stock Provides moisture; vegetable stock can be substituted.For the Seasoning1 tbsp smoked paprika Adds smoky flavor; regular paprika can substitute.1 tbsp Montreal chicken seasoning Use your favorite chicken seasoning as an alternative.1/2 tsp red pepper flakes Omit if a milder dish is preferred.For the Aromatics1/2 cup red onion (minced) Yellow onion can be substituted.1 tbsp garlic (minced) Fresh garlic is recommended.1/2 cup flat leaf parsley (chopped) Other herbs like thyme or rosemary are alternatives.For the Sauce2 tbsp butter Use unsalted for better control over saltiness.1 tbsp fresh lemon juice Freshly squeezed juice is best.1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Dairy-free alternative available.1/3 cup heavy whipping cream Can be replaced with non-dairy cream or omitted. Equipment Mixing bowlBaking DishMeat ThermometerAluminum foil Method Preparation StepsTrim excess fat from dark meat chicken pieces, choosing drumsticks or thighs. Combine kosher salt, smoked paprika, Montreal chicken seasoning, softened unsalted butter, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. Toss in the chicken to coat and marinate.Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread minced red onion and chopped flat-leaf parsley evenly. Arrange marinated chicken pieces on top, pour in chicken stock and lemon juice.Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, or until chicken is tender and juices run clear. Check internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C).In the last 15 minutes of baking, remove foil and sprinkle Parmesan cheese over chicken. Increase oven to 400°F (200°C) to achieve crispy skin and melted cheese.Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Serve with rice or mashed potatoes to enjoy the lemony butter sauce. Nutrition Serving: 1pieceCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 650mgPotassium: 420mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze portions for up to 3 months. Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–25 minutes. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
