Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
This Baked Lemon Butter Chicken recipe offers a simple, flavorful, and elegant dinner option featuring juicy chicken breasts baked in a bright lemon butter sauce. Perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions, it promises delicious and tender results every time.
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking Dish
- Medium Bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice about 2 lemons
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with a little olive oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. This mixture will be the flavorful sauce your chicken bakes in, so be sure to taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the sauce stick and ensures even cooking. Then season both sides with salt and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
Step 4: Pour the Sauce Over the Chicken
- Pour the lemon butter sauce evenly over the chicken breasts, making sure each piece is well coated. You can also spoon some sauce under the chicken for extra flavor.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is cooked through. Halfway through baking, baste the chicken with the sauce from the pan to keep it moist and flavorful.
Step 6: Broil for a Golden Finish (Optional)
- If you want a slightly crispy, golden top, switch your oven to broil on high for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Notes
Use fresh lemons for best flavor. Do not overcook the chicken; use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Let the chicken rest after baking for maximum tenderness. Double the sauce if you prefer extra sauce. Prepare the sauce ahead of time to save time. Variations include adding vegetables, swapping chicken cuts, adding spice, or using different herbs. The recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.