Description
Elevate your Sunday dinner with this Baked Lemon Butter Chicken recipe! Featuring tender, juicy dark meat chicken seasoned with smoked paprika, garlic, and fresh lemon, this dish is topped with a creamy, buttery sauce that’s packed with flavor. Simple, hearty, and perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Chicken
- 10 dark meat chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or a mix)
- 1 tbsp Montreal chicken seasoning blend (or any chicken seasoning)
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For the Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 1/3 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
For Garnish
- 1/2 cup flat-leaf parsley, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
- Pat the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel.
- In a small bowl, mix the chicken seasoning blend, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and red pepper flakes.
- Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken pieces.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
- Heat 1 tbsp of the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the chicken on both sides for 2–3 minutes, until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tbsp butter.
- Add the chopped red onion and garlic, sautéing for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the chicken stock, lemon juice, and heavy whipping cream. Simmer for 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
- Pour the lemon butter sauce over the chicken in the baking dish.
- Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the chicken from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
- Serve hot with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- Make It Ahead: Prepare the sauce and sear the chicken in advance, then bake when ready to serve.
- Add Veggies: Include baby potatoes, carrots, or green beans in the baking dish for a one-pan meal.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
