Lemon Butter Baked Chicken

Why Make This Recipe

Lemon Butter Baked Chicken is a delicious and simple dish that anyone can make. It combines the bright flavor of lemon with rich butter, making the chicken juicy and flavorful. This recipe is great for busy weeknights or special occasions. Plus, it requires only a few ingredients and minimal prep time, making it an easy choice for dinner.

How to Make Lemon Butter Baked Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 lemon (juice and zest)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Mix in the lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the lemon butter mixture over them.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

How to Serve Lemon Butter Baked Chicken

Serve Lemon Butter Baked Chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. It also pairs well with rice or mashed potatoes, allowing you to soak up the delicious lemon butter sauce. For a complete meal, consider adding some crusty bread to the table.

How to Store Lemon Butter Baked Chicken

If you have leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Tips to Make Lemon Butter Baked Chicken

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the lemon butter mixture for 30 minutes before baking.
• Use fresh garlic for a stronger taste. If you prefer, you can also use garlic powder.
• Make sure not to overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Variation

You can add herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor. For a little kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the butter mixture. Veggies like asparagus or broccoli can be added to the baking dish for a one-pan meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.

2. What can I substitute for butter?
You can use olive oil or a plant-based butter for a healthier option.

3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add more flavor and stay juicier, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

Lemon Butter Baked Chicken

This Lemon Butter Baked Chicken is a deliciously simple dish that combines bright lemon flavor with rich butter, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 300

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 4 pieces chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup butter Melted
• 1 whole lemon Juice and zest
• 2 cloves garlic Minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley For garnish

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Mix in the lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the lemon butter mixture over them.

Cooking

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the lemon butter mixture for 30 minutes before baking. Ensure not to overcook the chicken; use a meat thermometer to check it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).