Name: Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-490354H4M58S
Total time: PT-490354H4M58S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 cup butter; 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 tsp lemon zest; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a simple yet elegant dish that blends juicy, tender chicken with a rich lemon-butter sauce. It’s baked to perfection, allowing the flavors to soak deep into the meat while creating a light, citrusy aroma that fills the kitchen. This recipe is a comforting dinner option that pairs well with rice, pasta, or fresh vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy this dish is to prepare, with just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time. The butter and lemon combination brings a creamy tang that enhances the natural flavor of the chicken. It’s a great option for busy weeknights or when I want something hearty and home-cooked without too much effort. Plus, it’s naturally low in carbs and gluten-free, making it a crowd-pleaser for different dietary needs.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Salt
Black pepper
Garlic powder
Paprika
Butter
Fresh lemon juice
Lemon zest
Fresh garlic, minced
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Then, I season the chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
In a saucepan over medium heat, I melt the butter and stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic.
I place the seasoned chicken in a baking dish and pour the lemon butter sauce over the top.
The dish goes into the oven uncovered, baking for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
I spoon some of the sauce over the chicken once it’s out of the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. The total time, including prep and cooking, is around 35–40 minutes. Prep time takes about 10 minutes, while baking takes 25–30 minutes depending on the thickness of the chicken.

Variations

I sometimes swap out chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier result. For a creamy version, I stir in a splash of heavy cream to the lemon butter sauce before pouring it over the chicken. If I want a touch of spice, I add red pepper flakes to the butter mixture. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary also work well as garnishes or added into the sauce for an herby twist.

storage/reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I either microwave it in short bursts or warm it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through. If I notice the sauce has thickened, I add a little water or chicken broth to loosen it back up.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

I check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer, or I cut into the thickest part to make sure it’s no longer pink.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Yes, I can, but I prefer fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. The zest also adds an extra layer of brightness that bottled juice doesn’t have.

What can I serve with baked lemon butter chicken?

I like serving it with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh green salad for a lighter meal.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, I substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like vegan butter or olive oil. It changes the flavor slightly but still tastes delicious.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

I make sure not to overbake it and always spoon some sauce over the top after baking to keep it moist and flavorful.

Conclusion

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is one of my favorite go-to meals when I need something fast, flavorful, and satisfying. With its zesty, buttery sauce and juicy baked chicken, it delivers comfort and freshness in every bite. Whether I’m cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe always hits the spot.

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken