Name: Baked Lemon Butter Chicken That's Juicy and Stress-Free
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 105 min
Total time: 120 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Dark Meat Chicken Pieces (thighs and drumsticks) (Use thighs and drumsticks for maximum flavor and tenderness.); 1 tablespoon Kosher Salt (Enhances flavor; adjust based on your taste preference.); 1 tablespoon Montreal Chicken Seasoning (Offers a savory kick; feel free to substitute with your favorite chicken seasoning.); 1/2 cup Butter (Adds richness; olive oil can be used for a lighter version.); 1 medium Red Onion (minced) (Provides sweetness and depth; shallots are a great substitute if you prefer a milder taste.); 4 cloves Garlic (minced) (An aromatic base that elevates the dish's flavor profile.); 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Adds depth; regular paprika can be swapped for a milder taste.); 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Introduces a hint of heat; omit if you prefer a milder dish.); 1/4 cup Flat Leaf Parsley (chopped) (For freshness and color; swap with cilantro for a different twist.); 1 cup Chicken Stock (Brings moisture and flavor; vegetable stock is a good non-meat alternative.); 1/4 cup Fresh Lemon Juice (Brightens and balances flavors, though bottled works in a pinch.); 1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese (Adds creaminess; nutritional yeast can be a dairy-free option.); 1/2 cup Heavy Whipping Cream (Introduces richness to the sauce; coconut cream is a great non-dairy substitute option.)

The inviting scent of roasted chicken wafts through the house, instantly igniting fond memories of family dinners. This Baked Lemon Butter Chicken not only delivers a flavor-packed punch but also offers a stress-free meal solution for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. The best part? You can leave it in the oven and let it work its magic while you kick back and enjoy a moment of peace. With tender, juicy dark meat chicken pieces that make every bite a delight, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking to impress or simply craving comfort food, this recipe is both inviting and effortless. Are you ready to transform your chicken dinner routine?

Why is Baked Lemon Butter Chicken a Must-Try?

Ease of Preparation: With just a few simple steps, this recipe allows you to prep your meal quickly and easily, letting the oven do most of the work.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of lemon, garlic, and butter creates a mouthwatering blend that enhances the richness of the dark meat chicken.

Family Favorite: This dish is perfect for any gathering—the tender, juicy chicken pieces are sure to impress both kids and adults alike!

Versatile Pairings: Whether served with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh side salad, this baked chicken complements a variety of side dishes, making meal planning a breeze.

Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare this dish the night before for deeper flavors and an even stress-free mealtime. You may also like Baked Chicken Goujons for another quick option!

Indulge in the delightful aroma and taste of this Baked Lemon Butter Chicken—you won’t be disappointed!

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Dark Meat Chicken Pieces – Use thighs and drumsticks for maximum flavor and tenderness.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust based on your taste preference.
• Montreal Chicken Seasoning – Offers a savory kick; feel free to substitute with your favorite chicken seasoning.

For the Marinade
• Butter – Adds richness; olive oil can be used for a lighter version.
• Red Onion (minced) – Provides sweetness and depth; shallots are a great substitute if you prefer a milder taste.
• Garlic (minced) – An aromatic base that elevates the dish’s flavor profile.
• Smoked Paprika – Adds depth; regular paprika can be swapped for a milder taste.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Introduces a hint of heat; omit if you prefer a milder dish.
• Flat Leaf Parsley (chopped) – For freshness and color; swap with cilantro for a different twist.

For the Sauce
• Chicken Stock – Brings moisture and flavor; vegetable stock is a good non-meat alternative.
• Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens and balances flavors, though bottled works in a pinch.
• Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds creaminess; nutritional yeast can be a dairy-free option.
• Heavy Whipping Cream – Introduces richness to the sauce; coconut cream is a great non-dairy substitute option.

With these Baked Lemon Butter Chicken ingredients on hand, you’re well on your way to creating a delicious and comforting meal!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Step 1: Prep Chicken
Begin by trimming any excess fat from the dark meat chicken pieces, focusing on thighs and drumsticks for optimal flavor and tenderness. Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel to ensure the marinade adheres better. This prep work is essential for achieving that golden, crispy skin while allowing the flavors to penetrate.

Step 2: Mix Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine kosher salt, smoked paprika, Montreal chicken seasoning, softened butter, minced red onion, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Whisk together until well combined. This flavor-packed marinade will infuse the chicken with deliciousness as it bakes, so make sure all the ingredients are evenly blended.

Step 3: Coat Chicken
Take the prepped chicken pieces and rub the marinade generously over them, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. This step is vital for delivering maximum flavor throughout the cooking process. As you work, you’ll notice the rich aroma from the garlic and butter mingling, setting the stage for your Baked Lemon Butter Chicken.

Step 4: Bake
Place the marinated chicken pieces into a baking dish. Pour chicken stock and fresh lemon juice over the chicken, then cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in your preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour and 45 minutes. The chicken should be tender and the juices bubbling, filling your kitchen with delightful aromas.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Cream
After baking, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the chicken. Drizzle heavy whipping cream over the chicken as well, allowing it to create a creamy sauce. Return the uncovered dish to the oven for an additional 15 minutes, letting the cheese melt and the top become golden and slightly crisp.

Step 6: Serve
Once the chicken is perfectly golden and juices run clear, remove it from the oven. Check for doneness by ensuring the meat is fork-tender. Serve hot, ideally alongside rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the luscious sauce from your Baked Lemon Butter Chicken. Enjoy the gathered moments around the table with your loved ones!

Expert Tips for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Room Temperature Chicken: Ensure chicken pieces are at room temperature for more even cooking and better flavor absorption from the marinade.
Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked Baked Lemon Butter Chicken, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for food safety and optimal juiciness.
Adjust Cooking Time: If you’re in a hurry, raise the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and reduce cooking time to around 1 hour and 10 minutes—but keep an eye on the chicken to avoid overcooking.
Perfectly Melted Cheese: To prevent clumping, make sure your Parmesan cheese is fresh and evenly distributed before returning the dish to the oven.
Experiment with Marinade: Feel free to customize the marinade by adding different herbs or spices, such as thyme or rosemary, to create your unique twist on this family favorite.

Make Ahead Options

These Baked Lemon Butter Chicken pieces are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for richer flavors. To do this, simply prepare the marinade and coat the chicken pieces, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The key to maintaining quality is to ensure the chicken is fully coated to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, just follow the original recipe, covering with foil and baking at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour and 45 minutes. With this make-ahead strategy, you’ll save precious time during busy weeknights while still enjoying a delicious home-cooked meal!

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken Variations

Feel free to explore different twists on this Baked Lemon Butter Chicken recipe that cater to your family’s preferences and dietary needs!

Lean Chicken: Swap chicken thighs and drumsticks for boneless, skinless chicken breasts to make a lighter dish. Just adjust the cooking time, as breasts cook faster.
Extra Veggies: Add chopped carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers to the baking dish for a complete one-pan meal. Colorful vegetables absorb the flavors beautifully while adding nutrition.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano instead of parsley for a fragrant twist. Each herb brings its unique character to the dish!
Spice it Up: Increase the heat by adding more red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the marinade. This adds an exciting kick, perfect for spice enthusiasts.
Citrus Swap: Use lime juice instead of lemon for a fun change. It gives the chicken a zesty profile that’s equally refreshing and bright.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free delight! It’s a great way to keep the richness while accommodating dietary needs.
Terrific Toppings: Consider adding crispy bacon crumbles or fried shallots on top before serving. These crunchy toppings add a wonderful texture contrast to the tender chicken.
Savory Glaze: For a different flavor profile, glaze the chicken with a mix of honey and soy sauce in the last 15 minutes of baking. It creates a deliciously sticky, savory-sweet crust.

With these variations, you can truly make this Baked Lemon Butter Chicken your own, ensuring every family gathering feels special! Also, try pairing it with sides from our collection like Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos for a complete meal experience.

How to Store and Freeze Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; this helps maintain the tender chicken’s quality and flavor.

Freezer: Freeze portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Ensure they are stored in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Warm the Baked Lemon Butter Chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and juices run clear for the best texture.

Make-Ahead Tip: Consider preparing the chicken marinade a day in advance and marinating overnight. This enhances flavor and makes cooking remarkably effortless.

What to Serve with Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Elevate your dining experience with delightful accompaniments that perfectly complement the rich flavors of this tender chicken dish.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These fluffy potatoes provide a buttery, smooth texture that pairs beautifully with the savory lemon sauce.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy, herb-infused bread adds a delightful contrast, perfect for soaking up every bit of the delicious sauce.
Steamed Green Beans: Tender-crisp green beans brighten the plate with color and a fresh taste, balancing the richness of the chicken.
Light Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and tangy dressing offer a refreshing counterpoint to the savory chicken, making each bite exciting.
Citrusy Couscous: Fluffy couscous with a hint of lemon zest echoes the dish’s main flavors while providing a delightful texture contrast.
Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies caramelizes beautifully in the oven, enhancing their natural sweetness and complementing the chicken’s savory notes.
Lemonade Spritzer: A refreshing drink with a spark of citrus amplifies the meal’s bright flavors and cleanses the palate.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your dinner on a sweet note with warm, gooey cookies that provide a comforting contrast to the savory main course.

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and tenderness, use dark meat chicken pieces, specifically thighs and drumsticks. They hold moisture well during the cooking process, resulting in juicy and succulent bites.

How long can I store leftovers after making Baked Lemon Butter Chicken?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the chicken as tender and delicious as when it was freshly made, make sure to seal it properly.

Can I freeze Baked Lemon Butter Chicken? What’s the best way to do it?
Yes, you can freeze Baked Lemon Butter Chicken! Wrap the cooled portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What should I do if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly?
If you notice uneven cooking, ensure that all chicken pieces are similar in size before marinating and baking. Additionally, make sure your oven is preheated properly. For more even cooking, I recommend checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. If some pieces are smaller or thicker, consider cutting larger pieces into smaller parts for more uniform cooking.

Is this recipe suitable for those with dairy allergies?
Absolutely! You can easily modify the Baked Lemon Butter Chicken to be dairy-free. Simply replace the butter with olive oil and use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream. For a cheesy finish, try using nutritional yeast as a substitute for Parmesan cheese. This way, everyone can enjoy this delightful dish without worry!

Can I use fresh herbs instead of the dried ones?
Very much! Fresh herbs not only add amazing flavor but also vibrant color. If you have fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary, feel free to substitute them. Generally, you can use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried ones; for example, if the recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of dried herbs, use 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs instead. Enjoy experimenting with different flavor profiles!