Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a tender and flavorful dish that brings together the richness of butter with the bright zest of lemon. This oven-baked recipe creates juicy, golden chicken that’s coated in a tangy, buttery sauce—perfect for a comforting yet elegant meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Simple prep and minimal ingredients make this dish a go-to for weeknights.

• Rich, Balanced Flavor: The combination of lemon and butter creates a vibrant yet comforting flavor.

• Oven-Baked Perfection: No need to fry—this method keeps things cleaner and healthier.

• Versatile: Serve it with rice, pasta, vegetables, or salad—whatever suits your mood.

• Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults for its mild yet delicious flavor.

• Elegant Enough for Guests: The bright presentation and savory taste make it perfect for dinner parties.

• Customizable: Easily adaptable to different herbs, spices, or proteins.

• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup, more convenience.

• Moist and Juicy: Baking locks in flavor and prevents dryness.

• Reheats Well: Tastes just as good the next day, making it ideal for leftovers.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 lemon, thinly sliced

• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Flatten the chicken breasts slightly for even cooking and season them with salt and pepper.

3. Dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off any excess.

4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden.

5. Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish.

6. In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the garlic for 30 seconds.

7. Add lemon slices and lemon juice, simmering for 2–3 minutes.

8. Pour the lemon butter sauce over the chicken in the baking dish.

9. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Creamy Lemon Butter Chicken: Stir in a splash of heavy cream to the sauce for a creamier version.

• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a bit of heat.

• Herbed Variation: Include fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano in the sauce.

• Low-Carb Option: Skip the flour coating and season the chicken directly.

• Use Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs work great and add more juiciness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or microwave in short intervals until warm.

• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal, but thighs can also be used for a juicier texture.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can work if needed.

Is it necessary to dredge the chicken in flour?

Dredging helps create a slight crust and thickens the sauce, but you can skip it for a lighter option.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble everything and refrigerate. When ready, bake as directed, adding 5–10 minutes to the cook time if chilled.

What sides go well with lemon butter chicken?

Great options include rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, pasta, or a fresh green salad.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter with a plant-based or non-dairy alternative.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Do not overcook it. Use a thermometer to ensure it reaches exactly 165°F (74°C).

Can I make this recipe in a single pan?

Yes, use an oven-safe skillet to sear and then bake the chicken directly in the same pan.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, but it can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend.

What herbs can I add to change the flavor?

Fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil work well and pair nicely with lemon.

Conclusion

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is an easy, flavorful dish that delivers gourmet taste with minimal effort. The harmony of rich butter and zesty lemon creates a sauce that enhances the juiciness of the chicken, making it a reliable favorite for both quick dinners and special occasions. With simple ingredients and a flexible method, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.