Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the zesty aroma of lemon wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to sun-drenched Mediterranean shores. That’s how I fell in love with Baked Lemon Butter Chicken—a dish that marries the richness of dark chicken meat with the bright, uplifting notes of citrus. This flavor-packed family dinner is not just easy to make, but also a stress-free way to elevate your weeknight meals. With simplicity at its core, it showcases fresh ingredients that come together effortlessly, ensuring tender, fall-off-the-bone chicken without hours of fuss. Whether you’re gathering around the table or looking for a comforting solo dinner, this recipe delivers warmth and satisfaction. Ready to tantalize your loved ones with this delightful dish? Let’s dive in! Why Will You Love This Chicken? Simplicity, cooking has never been easier! This Baked Lemon Butter Chicken requires minimal prep time, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights. Flavor-Packed, the combination of zesty lemon, garlic, and buttery richness creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the dish to a whole new level. Crowd-Pleaser, your family will adore the tender, juicy chicken that falls right off the bone—ideal for comforting family dinners. Versatile, pair it with garlic bread or steamed veggies for a balanced meal everyone will love! Time-saving, this dish bakes in just under two hours, allowing you to relax while it cooks, making it a stress-free option for any occasion. Baked Lemon Butter Chicken Ingredients • Here’s everything you need for flavor perfection! For the Chicken Dark meat chicken pieces – Ideal for a rich flavor and tenderness; drumsticks and thighs work best. Kosher salt (2 tsp) – Helps enhance the flavor; adjust to taste based on your preference. For the Seasoning Smoked paprika (1 tbsp) – Adds a mild smokiness and depth; feel free to substitute with regular paprika. Montreal chicken seasoning (1 tbsp) – A delightful seasoning blend for extra flavor; any chicken seasoning is a good substitute. For the Sauce Butter (2 tbsp) – Adds richness and aids in browning; using unsalted butter helps control the seasoning. Red onion (1/2 cup, minced) – Provides sweetness with a hint of sharpness; shallots can be used as a flavorful alternative. Garlic (1 tbsp, minced) – Essential for that aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is best for maximizing taste. Red pepper flakes (1/2 tsp) – Adds a touch of heat; feel free to adjust based on your spice preference. Chicken stock (1 cup) – Provides moisture and enhances flavor; low-sodium stock is recommended for better salt control. Fresh lemon juice (1 tbsp) – Brightens the dish with a zesty acidity; juice from half a lemon usually does the trick. Heavy whipping cream (1/3 cup) – Ensures a creamy texture to the sauce; consider using non-dairy or reduced-fat options if desired. For the Finish Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (1 cup) – Adds creaminess and an extra flavor boost; always go for fresh for the best results. Flat-leaf parsley (1/2 cup, chopped) – Adds freshness and color; it’s optional but makes for a lovely garnish. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your Baked Lemon Butter Chicken will start cooking at the right temperature, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. While the oven heats, gather all your ingredients so you’re ready for a smooth cooking process. Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Trim any excess fat from the dark meat chicken pieces, which include drumsticks and thighs for optimal tenderness. Season them generously with kosher salt, smoked paprika, and Montreal chicken seasoning, ensuring even coverage. This step infuses the meat with flavor and gets it ready for the oven. Step 3: Mix the Sauce Ingredients In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, red onion, chopped parsley, red pepper flakes, chicken stock, fresh lemon juice, and heavy whipping cream. Stir the ingredients well to create a rich, creamy sauce that will enhance the Baked Lemon Butter Chicken. The vibrant colors will signal that you’re on the right track. Step 4: Assemble in the Baking Dish Place the seasoned chicken pieces into a large baking dish, ensuring they are arranged in a single layer for even cooking. Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the chicken, making sure to coat each piece thoroughly. This allows the flavors to penetrate, resulting in succulent chicken once baked. Step 5: Add Butter and Cheese Dot the top of the chicken with small chunks of butter, enhancing the richness of the dish as it cooks. Then, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top, which will melt and create a beautiful, golden crust over your Baked Lemon Butter Chicken. This adds an extra layer of flavor and texture. Step 6: Bake the Chicken Carefully place the baking dish in your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Check if the juices run clear to ensure perfectly cooked chicken, and enjoy the delicious aromas wafting through your kitchen. Step 7: Rest Before Serving Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful Baked Lemon Butter Chicken. Garnish with additional chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color and serve hot with your favorite sides! What to Serve with Baked Lemon Butter Chicken Create a vibrant meal that delights the senses and warms the heart with these perfect pairings. Garlic Bread: The buttery, crispy goodness of garlic bread is the ultimate companion. It’s perfect for sopping up the rich sauce! Steamed Green Beans: Fresh, crunchy green beans add a pop of color and a nutritious balance to the creamy chicken dish. Lightly seasoned, they’re a delightful contrast. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These fluffy potatoes are ideal for soaking up the luscious lemon butter sauce. Their creamy texture combined with the chicken makes comfort food at its finest. Caesar Salad: A tangy Caesar salad adds freshness and crunch with its crisp romaine and creamy dressing. The bright flavors complement the zesty chicken perfectly. Roasted Asparagus: Tender roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil adds a touch of elegance. Its earthy flavors pair beautifully with the bright notes of lemon. White Wine: A chilled Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the flavors of your meal. Its acidity pairs beautifully with the lemony chicken, creating a refined dining experience. Rice Pilaf: Flavorful rice pilaf serves as a perfect base, allowing the chicken’s sauce to meld seamlessly. The soft grains provide a comforting accompaniment to your dinner table. Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a refreshing scoop of lemon sorbet cleanses the palate and mirrors the bright flavors of the chicken, leaving your guests satisfied and delighted! Baked Lemon Butter Chicken Variations Feel free to explore these delightful twists that will customize your Baked Lemon Butter Chicken and make it even more scrumptious. Skinless Chicken: Opt for skinless pieces for a lighter version without losing the dish’s rich flavors. Enjoy the same tender textures while keeping it healthier! Citrus Blend: Replace lemon juice with a citrus blend of lime and orange for a refreshing new flavor profile. It brightens the dish, giving a tropical zest that will transport you! Herb Medley: Use a combination of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in place of parsley. This adds an aromatic depth that beautifully enhances the overall flavor of the chicken. Mediterranean Twist: Add kalamata olives and sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for a Mediterranean flair. Not only do they introduce vibrant flavors, but they also provide a lovely textural contrast. Spicy Heat: If you’re a heat lover, incorporate diced jalapeños or a tablespoon of sriracha into your sauce mix. This addition will kick up the spice factor, offering a flavorful kick that warms the palate. Creamy Dream: Replace heavy whipping cream with a mix of cream cheese and chicken broth. This will create a thick, creamy consistency that’s irresistibly decadent. Smoky Flavor: Enhance the dish’s depth by using smoked paprika instead of regular paprika. This change will impart a captivating smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the citrus notes. Vegetarian Protein: Swap chicken for firm tofu or tempeh for a delightful vegetarian option. Marinate and bake the plant-based alternative in the same zesty sauce for a dish that everyone can enjoy. These variations showcase how versatile this recipe can be! Don’t hesitate to explore and experiment, perhaps pairing your chicken with sides like garlic bread or Bbq Chicken Tostadas. Whichever path you choose, your family will be eager to taste the delicious results! Expert Tips for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken Room Temperature Chicken: Allow the chicken to come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking throughout and to avoid a rubbery texture. Thermometer Check: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety and optimal juiciness. Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting period after baking! Letting the chicken rest for 10 minutes retains moisture, resulting in tender Baked Lemon Butter Chicken that’s bursting with flavor. Customizing Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your spice preference; every family has different levels of heat tolerance! Perfect Sides: Pair this dish with rice or mashed potatoes to soak up that creamy sauce, and make sure to balance out your meal with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. How to Store and Freeze Baked Lemon Butter Chicken Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Baked Lemon Butter Chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, ensuring a juicy and delicious texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the chicken. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for a safe and effective method to preserve the delicious flavors. Make Ahead Options Preparing the Baked Lemon Butter Chicken in advance is a fantastic way to save time on busy weeknights! You can season the chicken pieces and marinate them in the sauce for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to infuse thoroughly. Additionally, the sauce can be mixed and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just ensure you refrigerate it promptly to maintain quality. When you’re ready to cook, simply place the marinated chicken in a baking dish, pour the sauce on top, and bake as instructed. This meal prep strategy ensures you enjoy a delicious, stress-free dinner that tastes just as vibrant and flavorful as when prepared fresh! Baked Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs How do I select the best chicken pieces for this recipe? Absolutely! For the best flavor and tenderness, I recommend using dark meat pieces like drumsticks and thighs. They remain juicier during baking compared to white meat. Look for cuts with a nice amount of fat, as this will add to the richness of the dish. Fresh, plump chicken pieces with no dark spots or discoloration are perfect. What’s the best way to store leftovers of Baked Lemon Butter Chicken? Very! To keep your leftovers fresh, transfer any uneaten chicken into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing to prevent moisture buildup. It’s best to reheat the chicken in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) to maintain its juicy texture! Can I freeze Baked Lemon Butter Chicken? Absolutely! To freeze, allow the chicken to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. For reheating, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which preserves the creaminess and delicious flavor. What should I do if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly? If you notice that your chicken is cooking unevenly, check the arrangement in the baking dish. Ensure that the pieces are placed in a single layer without overlapping, allowing hot air to circulate evenly around each piece. If the chicken is still undercooked, cover the dish with foil to prevent over-browning while allowing it to cook through for an extra 15-20 minutes. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Very! If you’re cooking for someone with dairy allergies, consider substituting the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative, such as coconut milk or a plant-based cream. Additionally, for those avoiding gluten, ensure your chicken stock is gluten-free. Remember to double-check all labels for any hidden allergens to keep everyone safe! How can I tell when my chicken is done without cutting it? Using a meat thermometer is key! Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken without touching the bone; it should read 165°F (74°C) for the chicken to be fully cooked. This ensures juicy and tender meat without the guesswork of cutting into it. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can also check if the juices run clear when pierced, indicating it’s done. Baked Lemon Butter Chicken for a Stress-Free Family Dinner Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a stress-free dish that combines the richness of dark chicken meat with zesty lemon, perfect for family dinners. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr 45 minutes minsResting Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 10 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: MediterraneanCalories: 500 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken2 pounds dark meat chicken pieces (drumsticks and thighs) Ideal for rich flavor and tenderness.2 teaspoons kosher salt Adjust to taste based on your preference.For the Seasoning1 tablespoon smoked paprika Feel free to substitute with regular paprika.1 tablespoon Montreal chicken seasoning Any chicken seasoning is a good substitute.For the Sauce2 tablespoons butter Using unsalted butter helps control seasoning.1/2 cup red onion, minced Shallots can be used as an alternative.1 tablespoon garlic, minced Fresh garlic is best.1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes Adjust based on your spice preference.1 cup chicken stock Low-sodium stock is recommended.1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice Juice from half a lemon typically suffices.1/3 cup heavy whipping cream Non-dairy or reduced-fat options can be used.For the Finish1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Always go for fresh for the best results.1/2 cup flat-leaf parsley, chopped Optional but makes for a lovely garnish. Equipment OvenBaking DishMixing bowlMeat Thermometer Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather all your ingredients. Trim excess fat from chicken pieces and season with kosher salt, smoked paprika, and Montreal chicken seasoning. Combine minced garlic, red onion, chopped parsley, red pepper flakes, chicken stock, lemon juice, and cream in a mixing bowl. Arrange seasoned chicken in a baking dish and pour sauce mixture over the top. Dot with butter and sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top. Bake for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 45gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg NotesAllow chicken to come to room temperature before cooking for even results. Use a meat thermometer for checking doneness. Don’t skip the resting period for juicy chicken. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
