Description
Looking for a quick and flavorful dinner? This Baked Lemon Butter Chicken combines tender chicken with a rich buttery sauce and a tangy lemon twist. Perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 chicken breasts or thighs
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 lemons (juice and zest of one, slices from the other)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Rub chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika. Let it sit for 20 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Prepare the Sauce: Melt butter in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice, zest, and thyme. Let simmer for 2 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Assemble the Dish: Place chicken in a baking dish. Pour the lemon butter sauce over the top and layer lemon slices for garnish.
- Bake: Cook in the oven for 25–30 minutes, basting with the sauce halfway through. The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and zest are key to achieving the bright, tangy flavor that makes this dish special. Avoid bottled lemon juice if possible for the best results.
- Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). This prevents overcooking and keeps the chicken tender and juicy.
- Baste for Extra Flavor: Halfway through baking, spoon some of the lemon butter sauce over the chicken. This step keeps the chicken moist and enhances its rich, citrusy tast
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Cook Time: 30 min