Imagine coming home after a long day, the aroma of lemon and butter wafting through your kitchen. This Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is the perfect antidote to a busy week. The chicken, golden and crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, is a feast for the senses. The lemon adds a bright, tangy note that complements the richness of the butter, creating a harmony of flavors that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Why I Love This Recipe
What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and the way it transforms humble ingredients into something extraordinary. The lemon not only adds a refreshing zing but also helps tenderize the chicken, making it incredibly juicy. The butter, melting into the chicken as it bakes, creates a luscious sauce that coats every piece. It's a dish that feels like a warm hug, bringing comfort and joy to the dinner table. Whether you're cooking for a family gathering or a quiet night in, this recipe is sure to become a favorite, cherished for its flavor and the memories it creates.
What You Need From Your Kitchen
Baking Dish
Essential for even cooking and capturing juices
Zester
To extract vibrant lemon zest
Basting Brush
For coating chicken with buttery goodness
Perfect Pairings
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Their creamy texture complements the chicken
Steamed Asparagus
Adds a fresh, crisp contrast
Chardonnay
Its buttery notes enhance the dish's richness
Pro Tips
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken for the best flavor and texture. The skin crisps up beautifully, adding a satisfying crunch.
- Baste the chicken with the buttery sauce halfway through cooking. This keeps it moist and infuses every bite with rich flavor.
- For a complete meal, serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice. The rice soaks up the delicious sauce, making it irresistible.
🍳 Your Cooking Progress
Ingredients Gathered
0/10 CompleteCooking Steps
0/6 CompleteRecipe Mastery
0% CompleteZesty Lemon Butter Chicken
Experience the mouthwatering combination of tender chicken infused with lemon and butter, creating a dish that's both comforting and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
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- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions
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1Preheat OvenSet your oven to 375°F and let it warm up while you prepare the chicken.
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2Prepare ChickenPat the chicken thighs dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
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3Make SauceIn a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and lemon zest.
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4Sear ChickenHeat a skillet, add butter, and sear chicken until golden brown.
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5Bake ChickenPour sauce over chicken, transfer to oven, and bake for 25 minutes.
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6Garnish and ServeSprinkle parsley over the chicken and serve hot with sides.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Chef's Notes
- For a zesty kick, add a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest before serving. It brightens up the dish and enhances the citrusy aroma.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least an hour. This allows the flavors to deeply penetrate, making each bite juicy and flavorful.
- Pair this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad. The vibrant colors and textures complement the rich chicken beautifully.
- If you love garlic, feel free to add extra cloves. The roasted garlic adds a delightful sweetness and depth to the sauce.