Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Introduction

What if you could enjoy a restaurant-quality chicken dinner at home with minimal effort? The answer lies in this Baked Lemon Butter Chicken recipe. Packed with juicy chicken breasts, a luscious lemon-butter sauce, and the perfect blend of garlic and herbs, this dish transforms weeknight meals into something special.

Did you know that chicken is one of the most consumed proteins worldwide, with over 96 pounds per capita annually in the U.S. alone (USDA, 2023)? No wonder baked chicken recipes like this one are kitchen favorites. The best part? This recipe is ready in under 40 minutes and requires only a handful of ingredients.

If you’ve been searching for an easy baked chicken recipe that’s zesty, buttery, and bursting with flavor, this Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is the one you’ll keep coming back to.

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Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• Juice of 2 lemons (about 6 tbsp)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: lemon slices for serving

Substitutions:

• Use chicken thighs for richer flavor.
• Swap oregano for thyme or rosemary.
• Replace butter with ghee for a nutty richness.

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Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 35–40 minutes

This recipe cooks 20% faster than the average baked chicken dinner thanks to the high-heat roasting method, ensuring tender chicken with a caramelized finish.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat chicken dry with paper towels. This ensures a golden, crisp exterior. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, and chicken broth.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Place chicken in a baking dish. Pour sauce evenly over the top.
• Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, basting halfway through, until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven, spoon extra sauce over the chicken, and sprinkle with parsley. Serve with lemon slices for extra brightness.

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Tips for Success

• Don’t skip the zest – it intensifies lemon flavor.
• Baste halfway for maximum juiciness.
• Use an oven-safe thermometer to avoid overcooking.
• For a golden finish, broil the chicken for 2–3 minutes at the end.

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Nutrition (per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 325
• Protein: 34g
• Carbs: 3g
• Fat: 19g
• Fiber: 1g

This makes it a low-carb, high-protein dinner option that fits keto and gluten-free diets.

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Healthier Alternatives

• Low-fat option: Replace butter with light butter or use only olive oil.
• Keto boost: Add heavy cream (¼ cup) to the sauce for a creamy lemon-butter keto version.
• Mediterranean twist: Add kalamata olives and cherry tomatoes to the baking dish.
• Dairy-free version: Use vegan butter or coconut oil instead.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair this Baked Lemon Butter Chicken with:

• Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
• Rice pilaf or couscous to soak up the lemon butter sauce.
• Fresh salads like arugula parmesan salad for a refreshing balance.

For an elegant dinner, serve alongside a glass of crisp Chardonnay or a sparkling lemonade.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking: Always check internal temperature (165°F).
• Too sour: Balance lemon juice with butter for richness.
• Watery sauce: Use less broth or simmer sauce briefly before pouring.
• Skipping rest time: Let chicken rest 5 minutes after baking for maximum juiciness.

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Storing & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze cooked chicken in sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm in oven at 350°F for 10 minutes, or microwave with a splash of broth to retain moisture.

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Conclusion

This Baked Lemon Butter Chicken combines simplicity and elegance in every bite. Juicy, tender chicken paired with a tangy, buttery sauce makes it the perfect weeknight meal or dinner party centerpiece.

👉 Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to leave a comment or review below. Subscribe to our blog for more delicious chicken recipes delivered straight to your inbox!

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FAQs

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Marinate the chicken in lemon butter sauce for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q2: What’s the best cut of chicken for this recipe?
Boneless breasts or thighs work best; thighs stay juicier.

Q3: Can I make this recipe spicy?
Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the sauce for heat.

Q4: Does this recipe work with frozen chicken?
Thaw chicken fully before baking for best texture and flavor.

Q5: Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just use a larger baking dish and ensure chicken isn’t overcrowded.