This baked lemon butter chicken is the ultimate combination of flavor and simplicity. The juicy chicken breasts are coated in a zesty lemon butter sauce that adds a tangy kick, while the garlic and oregano bring savory depth to every bite. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish. Pour the lemon butter mixture over the chicken.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Kcal: 350 | Servings: 4
Baked Lemon Butter Chicken: A Flavorful and Simple Meal
If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful chicken dish, this Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is the perfect choice. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a mouthwatering meal that’s both savory and zesty. The combination of butter, fresh lemon juice, and garlic creates a rich and aromatic sauce that soaks into the chicken, making it tender and full of flavor. This recipe is ideal for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or when you’re craving something simple but delicious.
Origins of the Recipe: The concept of lemon butter chicken is a blend of classic French cuisine’s love for butter-based sauces and the refreshing acidity of citrus. It’s a dish that has become a favorite for home cooks around the world due to its simplicity and versatility. The butter and lemon combination is often used to elevate poultry, enhancing the flavor without overwhelming it.
Ingredients Breakdown:
- Chicken Breasts: This recipe uses boneless, skinless chicken breasts for ease of cooking. You could substitute with thighs if you prefer a juicier cut of meat.
- Butter: The key to the richness of the dish. Unsalted butter is recommended so you can control the seasoning.
- Lemon: Both the juice and zest are used for maximum lemon flavor. The zest adds an aromatic citrus fragrance that complements the butter.
- Garlic: Minced garlic brings an earthy depth to the sauce, balancing the richness of the butter and the tartness of the lemon.
- Oregano: A pinch of dried oregano adds an herbal note that pairs perfectly with the lemony butter.
- Fresh Parsley: Garnishing with parsley brightens the dish, adding a touch of color and a fresh, slightly peppery flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes of baking, this dish is a great choice when you’re pressed for time but want something flavorful.
- One-Pan Wonder: This recipe uses just one baking dish, making clean-up a breeze.
- Versatile: While the chicken is the star of the dish, you can serve it alongside a variety of sides. Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad would all pair beautifully with this dish.
- Healthy Option: The recipe uses lean chicken breasts and minimal butter, making it a light yet satisfying meal.
Tips for the Perfect Baked Lemon Butter Chicken:
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To ensure your chicken remains juicy and tender, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should read 165°F (74°C) when done.
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have time, marinate the chicken in the lemon butter mixture for 30 minutes to an hour before baking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply.
- Add a Crunch: If you love a crispy texture, you can broil the chicken for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking to create a golden, slightly crispy top.
- Experiment with Herbs: While oregano is the classic choice, you can experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions: This dish is incredibly versatile when it comes to sides. You can serve it with:
- Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers roasted with olive oil and a touch of garlic complement the chicken’s flavors.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting and hearty side that pairs wonderfully with the lemon butter sauce.
- Rice Pilaf: A fluffy rice pilaf with herbs and vegetables makes a great base to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with a simple vinaigrette offers a light and refreshing balance to the richness of the chicken.
Perfect for Meal Prep: This Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is also great for meal prep. You can make a larger batch, store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat them for an easy lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in less than an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
- Minimal Ingredients: It requires only a few pantry staples, which means you can make this dish anytime without a long shopping list.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the lemon and garlic quantities based on your personal taste preferences. You can also swap in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
- Healthy & Delicious: Packed with protein and healthy fats from the butter, this chicken is a great addition to a balanced diet. Plus, the fresh lemon juice adds a vitamin C boost, helping to keep things light and fresh.
Pro Tips for Perfect Lemon Butter Chicken:
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out easily if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures juicy, tender chicken every time.
- Make It Crispy: For an added touch of texture, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking to get a crispy golden top. Just be sure to watch it closely to prevent burning.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps retain the juices and ensures a more tender bite.
- Double the Sauce: If you love extra sauce, feel free to double the butter, lemon, and garlic mixture. This will give you more sauce to pour over rice, mashed potatoes, or vegetables for a complete meal.
What to Serve It With: Baked Lemon Butter Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Roasted Vegetables: The lightness of the chicken complements roasted veggies like carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with the rich lemon butter sauce.
- Salad: For a lighter meal, serve with a crisp green salad, such as a spinach or mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
Storage and Reheating:
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil. Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
FAQs:
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer dark meat. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as thighs might take a bit longer to cook through. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken by marinating it in the lemon butter mixture for up to 4 hours before baking. This will allow the flavors to soak into the meat for a more intense flavor. - Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the baked chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.
Conclusion
Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a quick, flavorful, and versatile dish perfect for any occasion. With its rich, zesty sauce and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Pair it with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal that’s easy to customize. Try it today and enjoy a comforting, delicious dinner that’s as simple to make as it is to savor!