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Quick Baked Lemon Butter Chicken Perfect for Busy Nights


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  • Author: Michelle Davis
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Quick Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a flavorful, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Juicy chicken breasts are coated in a buttery lemon sauce, infused with garlic and aromatic herbs, making every bite bright, tender, and satisfying. It’s simple, comforting, and pairs beautifully with vegetables, rice, or a crisp salad for a complete dinner.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • Juice of 1 large lemon

  • Zest of 1 lemon

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish


Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

  • Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and rosemary.

  • In a small bowl, combine melted butter, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic. Mix until well combined.

  • Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and pour the lemon butter mixture evenly over them.

  • Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), basting halfway through with pan juices.

  • Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

  • Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with your choice of sides.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the lemon butter mixture for 30 minutes before baking.

  • Ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) to stay juicy and safe to eat.

  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

  • Pair with roasted vegetables, rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad for a complete meal.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes