Introduction
Welcome to the delightful world of Baked Lemon Butter Chicken—a dish that embodies the perfect harmony of tangy, buttery goodness. This succulent chicken recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packs a punch of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a simple weeknight meal, this recipe is bound to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the details of making this mouthwatering dish!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Juice of 2 large lemons (about 1/4 cup)
Zest of 1 lemon
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
1/4 cup chicken broth (or white wine for a richer flavor)
1 tablespoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and drained (optional, for added brininess)
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Equipment Needed
Baking dish (9×13 inches recommended)
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Aluminum foil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade
Marinate the Chicken:
In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.
Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Ensure each piece is well coated.
Seal the bag (or cover the dish) and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours. This step is crucial for infusing the chicken with delicious lemony flavors.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat will help create a beautiful golden crust on the chicken while keeping it juicy and tender inside.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
Prepare the Baking Dish:
Remove the chicken from the marinade and arrange it in a greased baking dish, leaving some space between each piece for even cooking.
Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken.
Add Chicken Broth:
Pour the chicken broth (or white wine) into the bottom of the baking dish. This will keep the chicken moist while baking and create a lovely sauce.
Cover and Bake:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. This will help steam the chicken and keep it tender.
Uncover and Finish Baking:
After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This final step allows the chicken to brown nicely.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
Prepare the Sauce:
While the chicken is baking, you can prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the remaining baking juices from the dish, honey (if using), and capers.
Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened. This step enhances the flavors and adds depth to your sauce.
Step 5: Serve
Plate the Chicken:
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
Drizzle the Sauce:
Arrange the chicken on a serving platter and drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the top. Garnish with additional chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Enjoy:
Serve your Baked Lemon Butter Chicken with your favorite sides—think fluffy rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad. The bright, zesty flavors will elevate any meal!
Tips for Success
Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh lemons and high-quality butter will make a noticeable difference in flavor.
Marinate Longer for More Flavor: If you have the time, marinate the chicken for longer than two hours to enhance the flavors even further.
Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to swap the dried herbs for fresh ones or add your favorite spices to customize the flavor profile.
Conclusion
This Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a flavorful, versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The tender chicken, infused with bright lemon and aromatic herbs, is sure to impress. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen. Don’t forget to share your experience and variations in the comments below—your culinary adventure inspires others!
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