There’s nothing quite like the combination of zesty lemon, rich butter, and perfectly seasoned chicken. Baked lemon butter chicken is a dish that brings comfort, flavor, and ease to your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting a cozy family dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With a luscious sauce, crispy golden skin, and tender meat, every bite is pure perfection.

Why Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a Must-Try

This recipe stands out for its rich and tangy flavor profile, blending the creaminess of butter and Parmesan with the freshness of lemon and parsley. Baking the chicken allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring juicy, tender meat. Plus, it’s versatile—pair it with vegetables, rice, or crusty bread to soak up every drop of that delicious sauce.

Ingredients for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this dish:

Chicken and Seasoning

• 10 dark meat chicken pieces (drumsticks and thighs, trimmed of excess fat)
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon Montreal chicken seasoning (or any chicken seasoning blend)

For the Lemon Butter Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ cup red onion, minced
• ½ cup flat-leaf parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 cup chicken stock
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ⅓ cup heavy whipping cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 375°F to get it ready for baking.

2. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

1. Melt the Butter:
   In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until it starts to bubble.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
   Add the minced red onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add Fresh Herbs and Garlic:
   Stir in the chopped parsley and minced garlic, mixing well to combine.
4. Incorporate the Liquids:
   Add the lemon juice and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Stir in the chicken stock, followed by the Parmesan cheese, mixing until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Finish with Cream:
   Stir in the heavy whipping cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer for about a minute. Turn off the heat and let the sauce cool slightly.

3. Season the Chicken

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick.
2. Season Generously:
   Sprinkle the chicken with kosher salt, smoked paprika, and Montreal chicken seasoning. Toss to coat evenly.

4. Combine Chicken and Sauce

1. Arrange the Chicken:
   Place the seasoned chicken pieces in a large baking dish in a single layer.
2. Pour the Sauce:
   Evenly pour the lemon butter sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated.

5. Bake the Chicken

1. Bake Uncovered:
   Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 45 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through to ensure even cooking.
2. Broil for Crispiness:
   Turn the oven to broil and cook the chicken skin-side up for a few minutes until golden brown.
3. Baste with Sauce:
   Spoon the sauce over the chicken before serving for extra flavor.

Tips for Perfect Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

• Choose Dark Meat: Drumsticks and thighs stay juicy and tender during long cooking times.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and enhances the dish’s flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Broiler: Broiling the chicken skin-side up creates a beautiful, crispy finish.
• Make It Ahead: You can prepare the sauce and season the chicken ahead of time to save on prep.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450
Protein	34g
Total Fat	28g
Saturated Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	6g
Sodium	800mg

FAQs About Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

1. Can I use white meat instead of dark meat?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts or tenders, but be mindful of the cooking time, as white meat cooks faster and can dry out.

2. What sides pair well with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad are all excellent choices. Crusty bread works well to soak up the sauce.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken a day ahead. Assemble everything just before baking.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the texture.

5. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, freeze the baked chicken in its sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

6. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream.

Why You Should Try Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Baked lemon butter chicken is a dish that hits all the right notes—comforting, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. The tangy lemon, creamy sauce, and perfectly seasoned chicken come together to create a meal that’s as impressive as it is easy to prepare. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Ready to Get Cooking? Gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try today. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a dish that’s full of bold flavors and homemade love!

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