Now, let’s talk about a dish that’s as vibrant as a summer day and as comforting as your favorite blanket. This baked lemon butter chicken is the perfect blend of tangy and savory, with a buttery sauce that’s downright irresistible. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough to impress guests.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of lemon and butter creates a sauce that’s rich yet refreshing, coating the chicken in a layer of flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Baking the chicken ensures it’s cooked evenly, keeping it juicy and tender inside while the outside gets beautifully golden.
- This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for various herbs and spices to be added according to your taste.
- It’s a one-pan meal, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your delicious creation.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, sliced for garnish
Equipment Needed
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F. While the oven is heating, take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This ensures they’ll brown nicely in the oven. Place them in a single layer in your baking dish.
Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined. Pour this mixture over the chicken, making sure each piece is evenly coated. For an extra tip, let the chicken marinate in this sauce for 30 minutes before baking for even more flavor.
Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Halfway through baking, spoon some of the sauce over the chicken to keep it moist.
Garnish and Serve
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the lemony flavor.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to elevate this dish, consider adding a splash of white wine to the lemon butter sauce for an extra layer of flavor. If you’re short on time, using chicken thighs instead of breasts can reduce cooking time, as they’re more forgiving and harder to overcook. Lastly, for a crispy top, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Recipe Variations
- Add capers to the sauce for a briny twist that complements the lemon beautifully.
- Swap out the parsley for dill or thyme to change up the herb profile.
- For a creamy version, stir in a couple of tablespoons of heavy cream or coconut milk into the sauce before baking.
- Make it spicy by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lemon butter mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While bottled lemon juice is convenient, fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for this recipe. The flavor is brighter and more vibrant, making a noticeable difference in the final dish. If you must use bottled, try to find one that’s 100% juice without added preservatives.
How can I tell when the chicken is done?
The safest way to ensure your chicken is fully cooked is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the breast; it should read 165°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part of the chicken. The juices should run clear, and there should be no pink.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce up to a day in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, let the chicken come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking as directed.
Summary
This baked lemon butter chicken is a foolproof recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for any night of the week, it’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.
