Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
A heartwarming dish that combines juicy chicken thighs with a tangy lemon butter sauce, perfect for family gatherings and cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces Chicken Thighs Juicy and tender; can substitute with boneless chicken breasts.
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Pepper
- 1/2 cup Butter Can substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.
- 2 pieces Fresh Lemons Zest and juice; bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
- 3 cloves Garlic Can use minced garlic from a jar for convenience.
- 1 tsp Thyme Fresh or dried; substitute with rosemary for a different flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) while you prepare your ingredients.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, melt the butter and then add the zest and juice of the two lemons. Mix in minced garlic and thyme, stirring until well combined.
- Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the lemon butter sauce over them, ensuring they are well-coated.
Cooking
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Once baked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Squeeze a bit more fresh lemon juice on top for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
Consider adding baby potatoes or green beans for a one-pan meal. Make it spicy with red pepper flakes in the butter sauce or serve over pasta to soak up the sauce. For leftovers, store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.