Baked Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe

There’s something magical about the scent of lemon and butter filling the kitchen as this chicken bakes to golden perfection. The juicy, tender meat paired with a luscious citrusy sauce creates a dinner that’s both comforting and elegant.

this Recipe

I first tried this dish on a rainy weeknight, searching for something bright and easy to lift our spirits. One bite in, and it became a permanent fixture in our dinner rotation—especially because it’s so simple and comes together in under an hour. This is a recipe you’ll turn to again and again, whether you’re feeding the family or entertaining guests.

Let’s dive into everything that makes this baked lemon butter chicken irresistible.

Why You'll Love This Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Get ready to fall head over heels for a recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. This baked lemon butter chicken is a kitchen hero, especially on those nights when you need something hearty, wholesome, and incredibly satisfying.

First and foremost, it’s wonderfully easy to make. The prep work is minimal—just season, pour, and bake. No need to babysit the stove or juggle multiple pots. Everything comes together in one baking dish, making cleanup a breeze.

The flavor profile is both bright and rich, thanks to the perfect marriage of fresh lemon juice and melted butter. The butter adds that silky mouthfeel while the lemon balances it with tang and freshness, making every bite sing.

It’s also incredibly budget-friendly. With just a handful of simple ingredients—many of which you probably already have—you can feed the whole family without breaking the bank. Chicken thighs are especially affordable and remain tender throughout baking.

Lastly, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Picky eaters love it, grown-ups appreciate its elegance, and it pairs well with almost anything—from mashed potatoes to roasted vegetables or even rice pilaf. There’s something for everyone on the plate.

Ready to see how easy it is to pull this off? Let’s talk about the ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this baked lemon butter chicken lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient has a clear role, working together to create a meal that’s more than the sum of its parts.

Chicken thighs are the backbone of this recipe. I prefer using bone-in, skin-on thighs because they stay extra juicy and develop a crispy golden skin in the oven. If you only have boneless or skinless on hand, you can still use them—just reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid over-drying.

Fresh lemon juice is essential here. It adds the signature zing that cuts through the richness of the butter. Bottled lemon juice just doesn’t have the same bright, floral notes, so I highly recommend using fresh lemons. You’ll need the juice from about two large lemons, plus a few thin slices for garnish if you’re feeling fancy.

Unsalted butter forms the base of the sauce. As it bakes with the chicken, it mingles with the lemon and pan drippings to form a silky, savory sauce that’s perfect for spooning over your side dish. You can use salted butter in a pinch—just be careful when seasoning the rest of the dish.

Garlic and herbs round everything out. Fresh minced garlic adds aromatic depth, while herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley complement the lemon beautifully. You can use dried herbs if that’s what you have on hand—just remember to use a bit less, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

You won’t need much in the way of equipment—just a large baking dish, a small saucepan, and a citrus juicer if you want to make things easier. Lining your baking dish with foil can also help with cleanup.

How To Make This Baked Lemon Butter Chicken

Creating this dish couldn’t be simpler, but a few tips and techniques will help you get the most flavor and the perfect texture every time.

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. While it heats, pat your chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This is key to getting that delicious golden skin. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper, and set them aside while you make the sauce.

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt your butter until fully liquid. Add in the fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and herbs. Stir it all together and let it gently simmer for about 2 minutes—just long enough for the garlic to soften slightly and the flavors to meld.

Arrange your chicken thighs in a single layer in your baking dish. Pour the warm lemon butter sauce evenly over the top, making sure each piece is well coated. If you like, you can tuck a few lemon slices in between the chicken pieces for extra citrus aroma and a pretty presentation.

Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for about 35 to 40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the skin is beautifully crisped. If you want an extra-crispy top, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes—just keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn.

Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes after taking it out of the oven. This helps the juices redistribute and makes for a more succulent bite. Spoon some of that incredible sauce over the top before serving—it’s liquid gold.

From start to finish, you’re looking at about 50 minutes, most of it hands-off. It’s an easy, elegant solution for when you want something special without the stress.

Storage Options

This baked lemon butter chicken stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

To refrigerate, allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just be sure to store it with a bit of the lemon butter sauce to keep it moist.

If you’d like to freeze it, you absolutely can. Place the cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe bag or container and store it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

For reheating, the oven is your best bet. Place the chicken in a covered baking dish at 325°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but the skin won’t stay crisp.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is. You can tweak the ingredients based on what you have or to match your taste preferences.

If you prefer chicken breasts, go ahead and use them—they’ll still work beautifully. Just be mindful not to overcook, as they’re leaner and can dry out faster. Cut them in half if they’re particularly thick for more even cooking.

Want to add a pop of sweetness? A touch of honey or maple syrup in the lemon butter sauce gives the dish a subtle sweet-savory balance that’s absolutely lovely. Start with just a teaspoon and adjust to taste.

You can easily make this dish gluten-free by ensuring your broth or any seasoning mixes are certified gluten-free. There’s no flour or breading here, so it’s already friendly for most diets.

For a low-carb option, serve the chicken with cauliflower rice or sautéed greens. The rich lemon butter sauce pairs beautifully with veggies, and it’s a great way to keep things light.

Don’t be afraid to mix up the herbs. Basil adds a lovely anise note, while oregano gives it a more Mediterranean feel. You can even throw in some chili flakes if you want a touch of heat.

The possibilities are endless, and half the fun is discovering your favorite version. So go ahead—make it your own!

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