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–+ servings
Merry

Quick and Healthy Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Baked lemon butter chicken is the ultimate comfort food, blending zesty lemon, creamy Parmesan, and perfectly seasoned chicken into one irresistible dish. Tender drumsticks and thighs are baked to golden perfection in a rich, buttery sauce for a meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious. Pair it with your favorite sides for a dinner your family will love.
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Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the 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

Method
 

Preheat Your Oven:
  1. Set your oven to 375°F to prepare for baking.+
Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:
  1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until it begins to bubble.
  2. Add the minced red onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the chopped parsley and minced garlic, combining well.
  4. Add the lemon juice and red pepper flakes, followed by the chicken stock. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and thicken the sauce slightly.
  5. Finally, add the heavy whipping cream, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for 1 minute, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Season the Chicken:
  1. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning sticks.
  2. Sprinkle the chicken evenly with kosher salt, smoked paprika, and Montreal chicken seasoning. Toss to coat.
Assemble the Dish:
  1. Arrange the seasoned chicken pieces in a large baking dish in a single layer.
  2. Pour the cooled lemon butter sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Bake the Chicken:
  1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 1 hour and 45 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through.
  2. Once baked, turn the oven to broil and cook the chicken skin-side up for 3–5 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
Finish and Serve:
  1. Spoon the sauce over the chicken pieces before serving for added flavor.
  2. Serve with your choice of sides such as mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Notes

  • Use Dark Meat: Chicken thighs and drumsticks stay juicy and flavorful during baking.
  • Fresh Parmesan Only: For the best results, use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-packaged varieties.
  • Broil for Crispy Skin: The broiler step is essential for a golden, crispy finish.
  • Make Ahead: The sauce can be prepared and chicken seasoned up to a day ahead.

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