Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

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This Baked Lemon Butter Chicken brings together the zesty tang of lemon with the richness of butter, creating a flavor-packed meal that will surely be the star of your dinner table. The juicy, tender chicken pieces coated in a creamy Parmesan sauce and lightly crisped on the skin are a feast for both the eyes and the palate. This dish is perfect for any family gathering or weekend dinner, where you can set the oven and forget about it. The rich garlic and lemon flavors paired with the creamy sauce create a comforting experience, and the fall-off-the-bone texture of the chicken will leave everyone asking for seconds. Serve with a side of rice or mashed potatoes to soak up all that delicious sauce.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 10 dark meat chicken pieces (drumsticks and thighs, trimmed of excess fat)
  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp Montreal chicken seasoning or any chicken seasoning
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1/2 cup red onion, minced
  • 1/2 cup flat-leaf parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1 cup chicken stock
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup heavy whipping cream

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  3. Add minced onions to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
  4. Stir in chopped parsley and garlic, and sauté for another minute. Add lemon juice and red pepper flakes.
  5. Pour in chicken stock, followed by Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine, then add heavy cream. Bring to a simmer for 1 minute, then turn off the heat.
  6. Season the chicken pieces with kosher salt, smoked paprika, and chicken seasoning. Toss well to combine.
  7. Pour the sauce over the seasoned chicken in a baking dish, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
  8. Bake uncovered for 1 hour and 45 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  9. Broil for a few minutes on the skin side until golden brown. Baste with the sauce and serve hot.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour 45 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours | Kcal: 420 kcal | Servings: 5

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken: A Flavorful Twist on Classic Comfort Food

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that blends the richness of butter with the bright, tangy zest of lemon, resulting in a satisfying and comforting meal that can become a staple in any household. This recipe is easy to prepare, full of flavor, and versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or serving a special meal for guests, this dish will surely impress.

The Origins of Lemon Butter Chicken

The idea of pairing chicken with butter is nothing new. Butter has long been a classic companion to chicken, creating a rich and juicy texture. The addition of lemon, however, gives the dish a refreshing twist. Lemon, with its natural acidity, complements the buttery richness of the chicken, balancing the flavors beautifully. This combination of butter and lemon has become a hallmark of Mediterranean cuisine, where fresh ingredients and simple preparation create meals that are both healthy and indulgent.

While Baked Lemon Butter Chicken might not have a specific historical origin, it has gained popularity due to its ease of preparation and the fact that it uses everyday ingredients. The recipe is a modern take on classic French and Mediterranean cooking techniques, where butter and citrus are frequently used to enhance the flavor of chicken. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, which allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine.

Why This Recipe is the Best

There are many reasons why Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a go-to choice for both beginner and experienced cooks alike. Here are some key points that make this dish stand out:

  1. Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
    One of the best things about this dish is that it uses basic, everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry or fridge. You’ll need chicken, butter, lemon, garlic, and Parmesan cheese—ingredients that are affordable and easy to find. The seasonings, such as smoked paprika and Montreal chicken seasoning, elevate the flavor without being overpowering. This means you can make a flavorful, gourmet meal without needing exotic or expensive ingredients.
  2. Ease of Preparation
    Unlike other recipes that require complex techniques or hours of preparation, this Baked Lemon Butter Chicken can be made with minimal effort. The chicken is simply seasoned and baked in the oven while a creamy butter sauce is prepared. The simplicity of the recipe makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal with little hands-on time.
  3. Tender, Juicy Chicken
    One of the standout features of this recipe is how tender and juicy the chicken comes out. The key is in the baking process and the use of butter, which locks in moisture and ensures that the chicken doesn’t dry out. Whether you choose drumsticks or thighs, both parts become incredibly juicy as they soak up the flavors from the sauce. Additionally, broiling the chicken at the end gives it a crispy, golden finish that adds texture and depth to the dish.
  4. Health Benefits
    While this dish may seem indulgent due to the butter and cream, it can still be part of a healthy, balanced diet. The use of dark meat chicken, such as thighs or drumsticks, provides a rich source of protein and healthy fats. Additionally, the lemon in the sauce is a great source of vitamin C, which is important for boosting your immune system. Garlic, often used in cooking for its flavor, also has various health benefits, including antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
  5. Versatility
    This recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. For example, you can swap the heavy cream for a lighter option like half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. The lemon butter sauce pairs wonderfully with various sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh salad. You can also experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to add additional layers of flavor.
  6. Perfect for Meal Prepping
    If you’re someone who enjoys meal prepping, Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a great dish to add to your weekly rotation. It stores well in the fridge and can be reheated easily without losing its flavor or moisture. This makes it an ideal choice for preparing lunches or dinners ahead of time. You can also double the recipe and freeze some portions for a quick meal on busy days.

Tips and Variations for the Best Lemon Butter Chicken

  1. Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor
    While boneless chicken breasts can be used, bone-in chicken pieces such as thighs or drumsticks work best for this recipe. The bone helps retain moisture during the cooking process, resulting in juicier meat. If you prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts, be sure to monitor the cooking time closely to prevent them from drying out.
  2. Make It Spicy
    If you like a little heat, try adding some chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the lemon butter sauce. This will give the dish a spicy kick that complements the tangy lemon and buttery richness. Adjust the amount of heat based on your personal preference.
  3. Add Fresh Herbs for Extra Flavor
    Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil can elevate the flavor profile of the dish. Adding them to the sauce or using them as a garnish before serving will bring additional freshness and aroma to the dish.
  4. Pair with the Right Side Dishes
    Since Baked Lemon Butter Chicken has a rich and creamy sauce, it pairs well with sides that help balance out the richness. Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette are great options. You can also serve it with rice or couscous to soak up the flavorful sauce.
  5. Use Fresh Lemon
    Always use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice tends to have a more acidic, less fresh taste, so it’s worth taking the extra few minutes to squeeze fresh lemons. The zest of the lemon can also be added for an extra punch of citrus flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight meal or preparing a dish for a special occasion, Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a winner every time. The combination of tender chicken, a creamy lemon-butter sauce, and a hint of garlic creates a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated. The ease of preparation, the rich flavors, and the health benefits make this recipe a go-to for any cook. Plus, it’s an incredibly versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides and customized to your liking.

Conclusion

This recipe for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a perfect example of how simple ingredients and straightforward techniques can come together to create an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced chef, you’ll find that this dish delivers both in flavor and in ease. Try it today and let the creamy, buttery goodness of the chicken take center stage at your next family dinner or gathering.

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