If you’re looking for a quick yet flavorful chicken dish, this Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is the perfect option. It brings together the tangy brightness of lemon, the richness of butter, and aromatic herbs, creating a meal that’s both simple and elegant. Perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner party, this recipe features tender chicken breasts baked to perfection in a delicious lemon butter sauce. Pair it with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, and you’ll have a healthy, satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the chicken breasts in a single layer, or line it with parchment paper for easy clean-up.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika, making sure the spices are evenly distributed.
- Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, and rosemary. This fragrant blend will form the base of your sauce.
- Assemble the Dish: Arrange the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Pour the lemon butter sauce over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well coated. Use a spoon to distribute the garlic and herbs evenly across the top of the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken: Set the baking dish in the oven that’s been preheated to 375°F (190°C) and let it bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Check that the chicken has an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The exact time may vary based on how thick the chicken breasts are. To ensure the chicken stays juicy, occasionally ladle some of the sauce over the top while it cooks.
- Broil for a Golden Finish (Optional): If you prefer a golden, crispy finish, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
- Finish and Serve: After baking, take the chicken out of the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with extra lemon slices on the side if desired.
Conclusion:
This Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a beautiful blend of zesty, buttery flavors and savory herbs, making it a go-to dish for any occasion. The juicy chicken breasts absorb the richness of the lemon-butter sauce, while the herbs and garlic enhance the overall flavor profile. Serve it alongside rice, potatoes, or your favorite vegetable medley, and you’ll have a wholesome, crowd-pleasing dinner ready in no time!