Description
This comforting Baked Lemon Butter Chicken features tender dark meat chicken in a rich garlic, lemon, and Parmesan sauce. It’s an easy, flavorful dish perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 10 pieces dark meat chicken (drumsticks & thighs)
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon chicken seasoning blend (or bouillon)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup minced red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup heavy whipping cream
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season Chicken: Combine kosher salt, smoked paprika, and chicken seasoning blend in a bowl. Rub seasoning all over the chicken pieces.
- Sear the Chicken: Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a baking dish.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Sauté red onion, garlic, and red pepper flakes until fragrant (about 2 minutes). Pour in chicken stock and simmer for 3-4 minutes. Stir in lemon juice, parsley, and heavy cream.
- Bake the Chicken: Pour sauce over the chicken in the baking dish. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve & Enjoy: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley and serve with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Dark meat stays juicier and more flavorful than white meat.
- Searing before baking enhances flavor and texture.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting and taste.
- Resting the chicken before serving locks in juices.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American