Best Baked Lemon Butter Chicken: Simple & Delicious

Hi I'm Benjamin

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on January 24, 2025

Some recipes strike the perfect balance between simplicity and elegance, and Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is one of them. With its juicy, tender chicken, a buttery citrus-infused sauce, and a touch of garlic and herbs, this dish is comfort food with a refined twist.

Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or something impressive for guests and special occasions, this flavorful yet easy-to-make dish never disappoints. The zesty brightness of fresh lemon, paired with the richness of butter, creates a sauce that’s light yet indulgent, making every bite irresistible.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Incredible Flavor with Minimal Effort

This dish requires just a handful of simple ingredients, yet it delivers big, bold flavors. The lemon and garlic bring brightness, while the butter and chicken broth create a rich and savory sauce that ties everything together.

2. Juicy, Tender Chicken Every Time

Baking the chicken at the right temperature and covering it partially during cooking ensures that it stays moist and flavorful. The lemon-butter sauce not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also prevents it from drying out.

3. A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion

Quick & easy weeknight dinner – Ready in under 40 minutes with minimal prep.
Impressive for guests – Looks and tastes restaurant-worthy with little effort.
Healthy and balanced – High in protein, low in carbs, and packed with fresh ingredients.

4. Great for Meal Prep & Leftovers

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken stores and reheats beautifully, making it a great make-ahead meal. Whether you’re prepping lunches for the week or saving leftovers for later, this dish maintains its flavor and texture when properly stored.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – 4
Salt – ½ tsp
Black pepper – ½ tsp
Garlic powder – 1 tsp

For the Lemon Butter Sauce

Unsalted butter – 3 tbsp
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Chicken broth – ½ cup
Fresh lemon juice – ¼ cup
Honey (optional, for sweetness) – 1 tsp
Italian seasoning – 1 tsp
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – 1 tbsp

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

Set oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Season the Chicken

Sprinkle salt, pepper, and garlic powder evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.

3. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in chicken broth, lemon juice, honey (if using), and Italian seasoning.
Simmer for 3-4 minutes, then remove from heat.

4. Assemble & Bake

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish.
Pour the lemon butter sauce evenly over the chicken.
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

5. Garnish & Serve

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 4 Servings)

Calories: 300
Protein: 26g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 0g
Sodium: 450mg

The Secret to Perfect Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

While this recipe is simple, a few key techniques will take it to the next level.

1. Use Fresh Ingredients for Maximum Flavor

Since this dish relies on just a few ingredients, quality matters. Use:
✔ Freshly squeezed lemon juice (bottled lemon juice lacks the same brightness).
✔ Fresh garlic instead of pre-minced garlic for a more robust flavor.
✔ Unsalted butter to control the salt level and allow the lemon’s natural tanginess to shine.

2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken

One of the biggest mistakes when baking chicken breasts is overcooking them. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure your chicken stays moist and juicy.

3. Let the Chicken Rest Before Serving

After baking, let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This helps redistribute the juices, keeping it moist and tender.

4. Adjust the Sauce to Your Liking

Prefer a creamier texture? Stir in a bit of heavy cream or grated Parmesan.
Want a bolder citrus kick? Add extra lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving.
Love a little sweetness? A drizzle of honey balances out the tang of the lemon.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

While this dish is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right side dishes elevates the meal.

1. Light & Refreshing Sides

Garlic Butter Asparagus – The crisp, earthy flavor of asparagus complements the lemony sauce beautifully.
Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans – Adds a fresh, crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.
Arugula or Mixed Greens Salad – A simple salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the butter sauce.

2. Hearty & Comforting Pairings

Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the buttery lemon sauce, creating the perfect bite.
Fluffy Rice or Quinoa – A neutral base that pairs well with the bold flavors of the dish.
Buttery Dinner Rolls – Ideal for soaking up every drop of the delicious sauce.

3. Mediterranean-Inspired Sides

Orzo Pasta with Feta & Olives – The tanginess of feta enhances the lemony sauce.
Grilled Zucchini & Bell Peppers – Adds a smoky, charred flavor that complements the dish.
Couscous with Lemon & Herbs – A light, fluffy side that enhances the citrus flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and tend to be juicier. Adjust the baking time to 30–35 minutes, as thighs take a bit longer to cook through.

2. What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for 10–15 minutes or in the microwave in 30-second intervals to avoid drying it out.

3. Can I Freeze This Dish?

Yes! To freeze:

Let the chicken cool completely, then store it with the sauce in a freezer-safe container.
Freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

4. How Do I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?

Replace the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. The dish will still have a rich, vibrant flavor without the dairy.

5. Can I Add Vegetables to the Baking Dish?

Absolutely! Vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, carrots, or bell peppers can be added around the chicken before baking. They’ll soak up the lemon butter sauce and add even more flavor.

6. Is This Recipe Good for Meal Prep?

Yes! You can:

Bake the chicken in advance and store it in meal prep containers.
Pair it with rice, quinoa, or veggies for balanced meals throughout the week.
Reheat as needed for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Make Baked Lemon Butter Chicken Tonight

If you’re looking for a simple, flavorful, and foolproof chicken recipe, Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is it. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and elegant, with bright citrus notes, savory garlic, and a rich buttery finish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

✔ Easy to make – Minimal prep and simple ingredients.
✔ Packed with flavor – A perfect balance of savory, tangy, and rich.
✔ Healthy & wholesome – High in protein, low in carbs, and made with fresh ingredients.
✔ Great for meal prep – Stores and reheats well.
✔ Versatile & customizable – Adjust the sauce, protein, or sides to suit your preferences.

So, the next time you need a go-to chicken dish that delivers big flavor with minimal effort, give Baked Lemon Butter Chicken a try—you won’t regret it!