Few dishes capture the spirit of bright, comforting home-cooked meals like Baked Lemon Butter Chicken. With its luscious, garlicky lemon butter sauce and tender, juicy chicken, this easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or even an elegant weekend gathering. Ready in under an hour, it’s flavorful, fresh, and satisfying — exactly what you want when you crave a meal that feels both wholesome and indulgent.
If you’re someone who loves bold, simple flavors with minimal fuss, this recipe is made for you. The lemon brightens the dish, the butter adds richness, and the garlic and thyme deliver a depth of flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
-
Minimal Ingredients: Only pantry staples and a few fresh additions required.
-
Quick Prep Time: You’ll have everything ready to bake in just 10 minutes.
-
Juicy and Flavorful: Lemon butter keeps the chicken incredibly moist.
-
Versatile: Pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes.
-
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love the tender, citrusy chicken.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
-
1/4 cup unsalted butter
-
2 tablespoons olive oil
-
Juice of 2 lemons
-
Zest of 1 lemon
-
3 garlic cloves, minced
-
1 teaspoon dried thyme
-
Salt and pepper to taste
-
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
-
Baking dish (large enough to hold the chicken breasts without overcrowding)
-
Small saucepan
-
Measuring cups and spoons
-
Whisk or spoon for stirring
-
Meat thermometer (highly recommended)
-
Basting brush (optional but helpful)
How to Make Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Allow it to simmer for about 1 minute until the mixture is fragrant and the garlic has mellowed.
Step 3: Assemble
Arrange the chicken breasts in your greased baking dish. Pour the lemon butter sauce evenly over each piece, making sure they’re well coated.
Step 4: Bake
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). For the best flavor and moistness, baste the chicken with the sauce from the pan halfway through cooking.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful. Spoon more of the pan sauce over the chicken, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Pro Tips for Success
-
Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensures the chicken is cooked perfectly — juicy, never dry.
-
Choose Evenly Sized Breasts: This helps them cook evenly without some drying out while others remain undercooked.
-
Baste Generously: Basting halfway through helps lock in moisture and boosts flavor.
-
Don’t Overcook: Overbaking is the number one culprit of dry chicken — keep a close eye toward the end of baking.
Easy Variations and Swaps
-
Add a Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes into the lemon butter sauce for subtle heat.
-
Herb It Up: Swap dried thyme for dried oregano, rosemary, or Italian seasoning.
-
Make it Creamy: Stir a splash of heavy cream into the lemon butter sauce for a creamier, more decadent dish.
-
Protein Swap: This method also works beautifully with boneless thighs or even white fish like cod or tilapia.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Storage:
Place leftover chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
-
Oven: Reheat at 325°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
-
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, spooning a little extra sauce over the top to keep the chicken juicy.
Pro Tip: Freeze the lemon butter sauce separately in an airtight container for up to 1 month, if desired.
What to Serve with Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
This dish pairs effortlessly with a variety of sides. Here are some favorites:
Side Dishes:
-
Roasted or steamed asparagus
-
Garlic butter green beans
-
Creamy mashed potatoes
-
Wild rice or quinoa
-
Crusty French bread to soak up the delicious sauce
Drinks:
-
Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or buttery Chardonnay complements the lemony, rich sauce beautifully.
-
Non-alcoholic: Sparkling water with a splash of lemon or a refreshing iced tea pairs well.
FAQ
Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes! Bone-in chicken breasts or thighs will work; just increase the baking time to about 35–40 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
What can I substitute for fresh lemons?
Bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but fresh lemons provide the best flavor and aroma. If using bottled juice, reduce the amount slightly, as it tends to be more concentrated.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the chicken and sauce in the baking dish up to a day ahead. Cover and refrigerate, then bake as directed when ready.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly extraordinary. With its bright, buttery sauce and juicy, tender chicken, it’s a meal that’s sure to become a household favorite.
If you loved this recipe, please share it with your friends and family! Don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more delicious, easy-to-follow recipes that make everyday meals something to savor. Happy cooking!