If you’re searching for the perfect dish that’s equal parts comforting, zesty, and weeknight-friendly, look no further than Baked Lemon Butter Chicken. This savory meal is packed with juicy dark meat chicken, a gorgeous lemon-garlic butter sauce, and a blanket of freshly grated Parmesan. Every bite is bright yet rich, and the aroma as it bakes is absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or want an impressive yet easy recipe for guests, Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is sure to claim a regular spot on your table.

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the beauties of Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is its reliance on straightforward, unfussy ingredients that work in harmony to deliver maximum flavor. Each one brings its own element—juiciness, kick, freshness, or creaminess—to this delicious main.

Dark meat chicken pieces (10): Drumsticks and thighs stay wonderfully moist and tender throughout baking.

Kosher salt (2 tsp): Essential for seasoning and amplifying all the other flavors.
Smoked paprika (1 tbsp): Adds a subtle smokiness and alluring, golden hue to the chicken.

Chicken seasoning or Montreal blend (1 tbsp): Any chicken spice or bullion brings depth and bold flavor.
Butter (2 tbsp): The base of your sauce, giving it a luscious, silky texture.

Red onion, minced (1/2 cup): Lends a sweet, gentle sharpness.
Flat leaf parsley, chopped (1/2 cup): Brightens up the dish and adds a pop of vibrant green.
Garlic, minced (1 tbsp): Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth.

Red pepper flakes (1/2 tsp): A touch of heat to keep things interesting.
Chicken stock (1 cup): Deepens the savory notes and helps meld the sauce together.
Fresh lemon juice (1 tbsp): Adds irresistible tang and freshness, balancing the richness.

Parmesan cheese, freshly grated (1 cup): Melts into the sauce for salty, cheesy goodness.
Heavy whipping cream (1/3 cup): Makes the sauce creamy and utterly decadent.

How to Make Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Step 1: Build the Base of the Sauce

Begin by melting the butter in a skillet set over medium heat. Once it’s bubbling and fragrant, add the minced red onion. Sauté gently until the onions are translucent and the kitchen smells irresistible—about two minutes is plenty. The butter and onions create a deeply flavorful foundation for the sauce, so take your time here!

Step 2: Layer in Freshness and Spice

Add in the chopped parsley and minced garlic, stirring until everything is thoroughly combined. Next, pour in the lemon juice, followed by the red pepper flakes. The heat and brightness really start to wake up the pan at this stage, transforming the base into something truly special.

Step 3: Make it Saucy

Gradually add the chicken stock to your skillet while stirring, then sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir as the cheese melts and begins to thicken the sauce, finally pouring in the heavy whipping cream. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer for a minute—it should look creamy, smooth, and slightly thickened. Then, take it off the heat and let it cool briefly to set the flavors.

Step 4: Season and Prep the Chicken

While the sauce cools, grab your dark meat chicken pieces and season them thoroughly with kosher salt, smoked paprika, and your favorite chicken seasoning. Toss well so every piece is vibrantly coated. Place the chicken into a large baking dish, ready to soak up all that incredible sauce.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pour the cooled lemon butter Parmesan sauce all over the seasoned chicken, making sure each piece is nestled in the goodness. Bake uncovered in a 375-degree oven for 1 hour and 45 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through. This long bake produces irresistibly tender meat and a rich, developed flavor profile.

Step 6: Broil and Baste

To finish, switch your oven to broil and brown the chicken on the skin side for a quick blast of color and crunch. When it’s satisfyingly golden, remove from the oven and baste the chicken with the buttery sauce before serving. Every bite is infused with lemon, herbs, and cheesy richness, making this Baked Lemon Butter Chicken unforgettable.

How to Serve Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Garnishes

The finishing touches make all the difference. Scatter fresh parsley or even extra lemon zest over the top just before serving for a hit of color and freshness. Don’t forget a final sprinkle of Parmesan if you’re feeling indulgent—there’s no such thing as too much with Baked Lemon Butter Chicken.

Side Dishes

This dish begs for sides that soak up that addictive sauce. Fluffy white rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or warm, crusty bread are all perfect to catch those lemony drips. A crisp green salad or simply roasted vegetables add contrast and some welcome crunch beside the creamy chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style meal, present your Baked Lemon Butter Chicken straight from the baking dish, surrounded by the bubbling sauce. If you want to elevate things, plate the chicken over a mound of rice or pasta, spooning sauce and fresh herbs on top. Or go rustic and let everyone help themselves at the table—the golden, saucy chicken is too good not to show off!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let the chicken cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. You can store Baked Lemon Butter Chicken in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to deepen, making it almost better the next day.

Freezing

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is very freezer friendly. Place cooled chicken and plenty of sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a baking dish, cover with foil, and gently warm in a 350-degree oven until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave—just add a splash of chicken stock or cream to keep the sauce luscious.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs and drumsticks?

Absolutely! Just keep in mind that white meat is leaner and may cook a bit faster. To prevent it from drying out, check for doneness a bit earlier and consider using bone-in, skin-on breasts for best results. The sauce works wonders on any cut.

Is it okay to use dried parsley instead of fresh?

Fresh parsley offers a bright, herbal punch, but you can substitute two tablespoons of dried parsley in a pinch. If using dried, sprinkle some on before serving for a fresh burst of flavor.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you don’t have heavy cream, try half-and-half or even coconut milk for a lighter twist. The sauce might be slightly less rich, but your Baked Lemon Butter Chicken will still be deliciously creamy.

How spicy will the red pepper flakes make this dish?

The amount of red pepper flakes listed adds just a gentle background warmth. If you love spice, feel free to double it, or leave it out altogether if you prefer a milder taste—the dish is easy to tailor to your preference!

Can I prepare Baked Lemon Butter Chicken in advance?

Yes! You can assemble the chicken and sauce in the baking dish earlier in the day, cover, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it goes in the oven cold.

Final Thoughts

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken truly checks every box: fragrant, creamy, packed with flavor, and endlessly comforting. It’s a dish you’ll make for special occasions—but also just because. Give it a try soon, and don’t be surprised when it disappears in record time. You may just find yourself making a double batch next time!

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 27 reviews

Author: lina
Total Time: 2 hours

Yield: Serves 4-6 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines tender dark meat chicken with a rich and zesty lemon butter sauce. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests.

Instructions

Melt Butter: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Sauté Onions: Add onions to the melted butter and sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes.

Add Herbs and Spices: Mix in parsley, garlic, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes.
Prepare Sauce: Pour in chicken stock, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Simmer briefly, then set aside to cool slightly.
Season Chicken: Season chicken pieces with salt, smoked paprika, and chicken seasoning.

Combine and Bake: Place seasoned chicken in a baking dish and pour the lemon butter sauce over it. Bake uncovered at 375°F for 1 hour & 45 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Broil: Broil the chicken until the skin is golden brown.
Finish and Serve: Baste the chicken in sauce before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Category: Main Dish

Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving

Calories: 380
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 780mg

Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g

Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 1g

Protein: 38g
Cholesterol: 150mg

Keywords: Baked Lemon Butter Chicken, Lemon Chicken Recipe, Lemon Butter Sauce, Chicken Dinner