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Baked Lemon Butter Chicken: A Delightful Dinner That Delivers

Ah, Baked Lemon Butter Chicken—the name alone makes my mouth water! If you’re seeking a quick solution for dinner that delivers flavor without spending all evening in the kitchen, this recipe is your golden ticket. Whether you’re a busy mom juggling schedules or a professional winding down from a hectic day, this dish will impress your family or guests without requiring a culinary degree (trust me, I wouldn’t steer you wrong!).

Why You’ll Love This Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

This recipe is the kind of effortless masterpiece every cook dreams of. Picture this: juicy chicken breasts bathing in a rich, lemony butter sauce that’s so luscious, you’ll wonder how something so simple can taste like a five-star restaurant dish. It’s the ultimate comfort food that makes your kitchen smell like haven on a rainy day, wrapping you in a warm hug that says, “Everything will be alright!”

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this deliciousness:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large lemons (zested and juiced)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure you have these ingredients on hand—if you don’t, a quick trip to the grocery store will add to the excitement of your culinary adventure.

Steps to Deliciousness

Preheat and Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, grab a baking dish and spray it with non-stick cooking spray to keep things moving smoothly.
Mix the Magic: In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, thyme, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Give it a good stir until it’s all blended.
Let’s Talk Chicken: Place your chicken breasts in the baking dish, bathe them lovingly in the lemon-butter mixture, making sure they’re well coated. Go ahead and even store some extra sauce for later—oh yes, we want all that flavor!
Baking Time: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. This helps keep the chicken moist. After those 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to get that beautiful golden finish.
Garnish & Serve: Once done, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a burst of color (and a dash of sophistication), and serve hot!

Cooking Tips

Can I Substitute? Of course! Don’t worry if you’re out of thyme—fresh rosemary or oregano work beautifully too. And if you’re feeling the need for adventure, swap out chicken for shrimp for a seafood twist!
Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time when ready to bake.

My sister Patricia always jokes that I could throw just about anything in the oven and it would turn out delicious. This chicken recipe has certainly lived up to that reputation. After my kids begged for “more lemon chicken” the first time I served it, I knew I had struck gold!

FAQs About Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Thighs are a little richer and can add a delightful depth of flavor. Just adjust your cooking time slightly as thighs may need a bit longer to reach the right internal temperature.

How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just remember to reheat gently to retain that juicy goodness!

Can the lemon butter sauce be frozen?
Yes, feel free to freeze any leftover sauce in an ice cube tray and thaw it later. You’ll have a quick sauce ready to go for future meals!

So, there you have it—the delightful symphony of flavors that is Baked Lemon Butter Chicken. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress but don’t want to fuss in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding your family or prepping for a gathering, this dish is bound to have everyone smiling. Give it a try, and watch it become a staple in your household!

Want more delicious recipes like this? Check out our Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp for another flavorful hit in the kitchen!

Meta Description: Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is the perfect recipe for busy nights. Quick, easy, and delicious, this dish will become your go-to meal. Try it today!