Introduction to Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
If you're looking for a meal that impresses without the stress, Baked Lemon Butter Chicken should be at the top of your list. This dish encapsulates comfort food at its finest, combining juicy dark meat chicken with a zesty lemon butter sauce that packs a flavor punch, all while being incredibly simple to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this recipe ensures that your time in the kitchen becomes an enjoyable experience rather than a chore.
Why is Baked Lemon Butter Chicken a must-try?
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Flavorful Satisfaction: The zesty citrus notes, along with the richness of butter and garlic, create a deliciously balanced dish that even the pickiest eaters can’t resist.
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Minimal Effort Required: With a prep time of just 10 minutes and an oven doing the heavy lifting, you'll have more time to connect with family or unwind after a hectic day.
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Versatile Pairings: Serve it alongside rice or mashed potatoes to soak up that mouthwatering sauce, making each bite delightful.
This recipe saves you time without skimping on flavor. Curious about a knockout meal to elevate your dinner table? Try making Baked Lemon Butter Chicken today. For more tips on cooking chicken perfectly, you can check this guide from the USDA. Happy cooking!
Ingredients for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
When crafting the perfect dish, quality ingredients can transform an ordinary meal into something exceptional. For this Baked Lemon Butter Chicken, you only need a handful of fresh and flavorful items. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious dish:
- 10 dark meat chicken pieces: Drumsticks and thighs work wonderfully, trimmed of excess fat for a cleaner taste.
- 2 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness that perfectly complements the lemon.
- 1 tablespoon chicken seasoning: I prefer Montreal chicken seasoning, but any blend you love will do.
- 2 tablespoon butter: For that rich, buttery sauce that makes this dish irresistible.
- ½ cup minced red onion: This brings a hearty sweetness to the sauce.
- ½ cup flat-leaf parsley, chopped: Fresh herbs offer a vibrant flavor.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic: Because everything's better with garlic!
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: For a hint of heat.
- 1 cup chicken stock: To build a rich, savory base.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens the dish and adds zest.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: For creaminess and flavor.
- ⅓ cup heavy whipping cream: This rounds out the sauce, making it luxurious.
By using these carefully chosen ingredients, you’re setting yourself up for a meal that will impress your family and friends. Plus, the steps to prepare this dish are straightforward, making it a perfect choice for a weekend meal or a cozy weeknight dinner. For more tips on selecting quality chicken, check out this guide.
And for those curious about different chicken seasonings, don’t hesitate to explore this article that delves into various options. Happy cooking!
Preparing Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
Cooking is a delightful journey, and there’s no better way to start than with a recipe that combines simplicity with bold flavors. Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that is also a breeze to make. Here’s how to prepare this delicious dish, step by step.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before jumping into the cooking process, it’s essential to have all your ingredients ready. For Baked Lemon Butter Chicken, you will need:
- 10 dark meat chicken pieces (like drumsticks and thighs)
- 2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon chicken seasoning (like Montreal blend)
- 2 tablespoon butter
- ½ cup minced red onion
- ½ cup chopped flat-leaf parsley
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ⅓ cup heavy whipping cream
Make sure to have these items on hand so you can flow through the cooking process without any interruptions.
Create the Flavorful Sauce
To kick things off, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s beautifully melted, toss in the minced red onion and let it sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant. The aroma that fills your kitchen at this stage is just the beginning of a delicious adventure.
Mix in the chopped parsley and garlic, giving them a brief moment to combine with the onions. As you stir, imagine how these ingredients will meld together. Add in the lemon juice, red pepper flakes, and chicken stock, followed by the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Allow the sauce to simmer for a minute, then remove it from the heat.
Season the Chicken
While the sauce cools slightly, it’s time to season your chicken. Season each piece generously with kosher salt, smoked paprika, and your chosen chicken seasoning blend. Make sure the chicken is well-coated; this is where flavor starts to build.
Combine the Chicken and Sauce
Once your chicken is seasoned, pour the flavorful sauce over the chicken in a baking dish. Make sure every piece is nicely covered; this will ensure that every bite is as flavorful as the last.
Bake to Perfection
Now comes the fun part! Bake your creation UNCOVERED at 375 degrees for about 1 hour and 45 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through for even cooking. Keep an eye on it as it bakes—your kitchen will be filled with mouthwatering aromas. To finish off, broil the chicken skin-side up until it reaches that perfect golden-brown color. Basting it with the sauce just before serving adds an extra layer of flavor.
And voila! You’ve created a dish that’s not just a meal, but an experience. Serve your Baked Lemon Butter Chicken with rice or mashed potatoes to soak up that gorgeous, creamy sauce. Enjoy your culinary creation!
For more cooking inspiration, check out Bon Appétit or Serious Eats for tips and tricks to elevate your home cooking.
Variations on Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
Swap Dark Meat for Chicken Breasts
If you prefer a leaner protein option, consider swapping out dark meat chicken for chicken breasts. Just be mindful that white meat cooks faster, so reduce your baking time accordingly — about 25 to 30 minutes should do the trick. The lemony sauce still complements the chicken wonderfully without sacrificing flavor.
Add Seasonal Vegetables
Elevate your Baked Lemon Butter Chicken by tossing in seasonal vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchinis. Not only do they enhance the dish's visual appeal, but they also absorb that delicious lemon-butter sauce. Roasting those veggies alongside the chicken makes for a delightful one-pan meal that's both nutritious and satisfying. For a guide to seasonal vegetables, check out Seasonal Food Guide.
With these variations, you're sure to keep your mealtime fresh and exciting!
Cooking Tips for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
Use a meat thermometer
When making Baked Lemon Butter Chicken, using a meat thermometer is a game-changer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken, avoiding the bone. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked meat—this ensures it’s safe to eat while remaining juicy and tender. If you’re interested in learning more about safe cooking temperatures, check out this USDA guide.
Adjust cooking time based on chicken size
Keep in mind that chicken pieces come in various sizes, which can affect cooking times significantly. Larger pieces may need longer, while smaller ones could cook faster. If your chicken isn’t at room temperature before baking, this can also extend cooking time. Monitor the meat visually; ideally, it should be fork-tender and lightly browned when done. What's your go-to method for checking doneness?
Serving suggestions for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
Pair with rice or mashed potatoes
For a satisfying meal, consider serving your Baked Lemon Butter Chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes. The rich, buttery sauce is perfect for soaking into the grains or potatoes, elevating each bite to new heights. If you're in the mood for something a tad healthier, you could opt for quinoa or cauliflower rice as a wonderful alternative.
Serve with a fresh side salad
To balance out the richness of the chicken, a fresh side salad is ideal. A vibrant mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and perhaps a sprinkle of feta can enhance the meal’s freshness. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette to add a zesty contrast. This way, you're not only enjoying a hearty dish but also adding a burst of nutrients to your plate! For more inspiration, check out this guide on preparing delicious salads.
Combining these elements will make your dinner both nourishing and delightful!
Time Breakdown for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
Preparation Time
Getting your ingredients ready will take about 10 minutes. This includes trimming the chicken, chopping the onions and parsley, and gathering everything you need for a seamless cooking experience.
Cooking Time
Once you've prepped, the cooking takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. This allows the chicken to soak in all those delicious flavors and become perfectly tender.
Total Time
From start to finish, you're looking at a total time of 2 hours. This includes your prep and cooking time, along with a quick 5-minute rest before serving.
For a stress-free dinner experience, check out these tips on managing cooking time efficiently, and consider pairing your Baked Lemon Butter Chicken with sides like rice or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Nutritional Facts for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
Understanding the nutritional profile of your meals is essential, especially when it comes to balancing flavor and health. Here's a quick glance at the nutritional facts for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken that might make your taste buds dance while keeping your diet in check:
Calories
Each serving of Baked Lemon Butter Chicken contains approximately 400 calories. This makes it a delicious yet manageable choice for your weekly meal plan.
Protein
With around 30 grams of protein per serving, this dish helps you meet your daily protein needs, keeping you full and satisfied throughout the day. It's an excellent choice for both active individuals and those just looking to enjoy a wholesome meal.
Sodium
This recipe has about 800 milligrams of sodium per serving. If you're watching your sodium intake, consider using low-salt chicken stock and reducing the additional salt in the recipe for a healthier option.
If you're interested in more detailed nutritional information, you can refer to resources like the USDA FoodData Central for comprehensive insights.
FAQs about Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
Can I use different types of chicken?
Absolutely! While this recipe features dark meat chicken pieces like drumsticks and thighs, you can easily substitute them with chicken breasts. Just keep in mind that cooking time may vary; breasts usually cook faster. For an even quicker option, consider using boneless, skinless chicken. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftover Baked Lemon Butter Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave it for a faster option. Leftovers also freeze well for up to 3 months; just be sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What are some side dish ideas?
Pair your Baked Lemon Butter Chicken with delicious sides like garlic mashed potatoes, lemony asparagus, or a fresh garden salad. You could also serve it over rice or quinoa to soak up the rich sauce. For some extra zest, consider a citrusy coleslaw to balance the flavors!
Conclusion on Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
In conclusion, Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a delectable dish that balances simplicity and vibrant flavors. Its blend of succulent chicken, zesty lemon, and creamy sauce creates an unforgettable dining experience. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this recipe will surely become a new favorite at your table. Enjoy!
Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
Equipment
- Skillet
- baking dish
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 10 pieces dark meat chicken drumsticks and thighs, trimmed of excess fat
- 2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon Montreal chicken seasoning or any chicken seasoning of choice
- 2 tablespoon butter
- ½ cup red onion minced
- ½ cup flat leaf parsley chopped
- 1 tablespoon garlic minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
- ⅓ cup heavy whipping cream
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted, add onions and sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- To the onions, add chopped parsley and garlic. Mix well to combine and add lemon juice, followed by red pepper flakes.
- Add chicken stock followed by Parmesan cheese. Mix well to combine and then add heavy cream.
- Bring to a simmer for a minute, then turn off the heat and allow the sauce to cool slightly.
- While the sauce cools, season chicken with salt, smoked paprika, and chicken seasoning. Toss well to combine and pour the sauce over the chicken in a baking dish.
- Bake UNCOVERED on 375 degrees for 1 hour & 45 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Broil on the skin side until golden brown.
- Baste in sauce to finish and enjoy!
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