Introduction
Juicy Baked Chicken Breast with Lemon Butter is a dish that never fails to impress, with its lemon and butter flavors combining in perfect harmony. This Lemon Butter Chicken recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor, making it a great option for any occasion. The simplicity of the recipe and the quick preparation time make it a staple in many kitchens.
The aroma of lemon and garlic fills the air as you cook, teasing your senses and building anticipation. The first bite is like a symphony of flavors, with the lemon butter sauce complementing the juicy chicken perfectly. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to please.
In this recipe, we’ll explore the art of creating the perfect Lemon Butter Chicken, with a focus on achieving that elusive balance of flavors and textures. So, let’s dive in and get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Lemon Butter Chicken recipe stands out from the rest due to its unique combination of lemon and butter, which creates a rich and tangy flavor profile. The simplicity of the recipe and the quick preparation time make it a great option for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
The best part about this recipe is its versatility, making it suitable for various occasions, from casual dinners to fancy parties. You can serve it with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad, making it a great option for any meal.
The lemon and butter flavors in this recipe are not only delicious but also provide a nice balance of brightness and richness. The garlic and thyme add a depth of flavor that complements the chicken perfectly, making this recipe a must-try for anyone looking for a new favorite dish. You can also try our crock-pot lemon garlic butter chicken thighs for a different twist.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 lemons, juiced (approximately 2 tbsp)
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tsp (5g) dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp (2g) salt
- 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
When it comes to the ingredients, there are a few notes to keep in mind. The unsalted butter can be substituted with salted butter if that’s all you have on hand, just be sure to omit the additional salt called for in the recipe. The lemons can be substituted with lime juice or a combination of lemon and lime juice for a unique flavor twist.
The garlic can be minced or crushed, depending on your personal preference. The thyme can be substituted with other herbs like rosemary or oregano, but keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different. The all-purpose flour can be substituted with gluten-free flour if you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions.
It’s also worth noting that the quality of the ingredients can make a big difference in the final dish. Using fresh lemons and high-quality butter will result in a more flavorful and aromatic sauce. Similarly, using fresh thyme will add a brighter, more herbaceous flavor to the dish. For more information on cooking with thyme, check out our tau hu sumbat ingredients page.
Equipment Needed
To make this recipe, you’ll need a few pieces of equipment, including a skillet, oven, and measuring cups and spoons. A skillet with a heavy bottom is ideal for searing the chicken and creating a rich, caramelized crust.
A reliable oven is also essential for cooking the chicken to the perfect temperature. Make sure to invest in a good oven thermometer to ensure that your oven is at the correct temperature.
Measuring cups and spoons are also crucial for accurately measuring the ingredients. This will ensure that the dish turns out as intended and that the flavors are balanced.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Add 2 more tablespoons of butter to the skillet.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the skillet.
- Simmer the lemon butter sauce for 2-3 minutes, until slightly reduced.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and coat with the lemon butter sauce.
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until cooked through.
- Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges.
Visual Guide & Tips
As you cook, keep an eye on the chicken and adjust the cooking time as needed. The chicken should be golden brown on the outside and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
The lemon butter sauce should be slightly reduced and caramelized, with a rich, velvety texture. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a little bit of chicken broth or water.
When serving, garnish with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of thyme or parsley for added flavor and visual appeal. You can also try our creamy lemon chicken pasta recipe for a creamy and delicious pasta dish.
Pro Tips & Tricks
To ensure even cooking and prevent overcooking, make sure to not overcrowd the skillet. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary, and keep an eye on the internal temperature.
To enhance the lemon butter sauce, you can add a few cloves of minced garlic or a sprinkle of parsley to the skillet. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the sauce just before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
For a more impressive presentation, you can serve the chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. You can also garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers for added visual appeal.
Serving Suggestions/Storage/Variations
This Juicy Baked Chicken Breast with Lemon Butter is best served hot, garnished with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of thyme or parsley. You can serve it with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
For storage, let the chicken cool completely before refrigerating or freezing. You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Variations of this recipe include adding other herbs like rosemary or oregano to the lemon butter sauce, or using different types of citrus like lime or orange. You can also add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese to the chicken for an extra burst of flavor.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
Per serving (assuming 4 servings):
- Calories: 620 kcal
- Protein: 59g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fat: 30g
- Sugar: 3g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions about this Lemon Butter Chicken recipe:
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but make sure to thaw it first and pat it dry with paper towels before cooking.
- How do I store leftovers? Let the chicken cool completely before refrigerating or freezing. You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Can I make this recipe in advance? Yes, you can prepare the lemon butter sauce and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day in advance. Simply reheat it before serving.
- Can I substitute the lemons with limes? Yes, you can use limes instead of lemons, but keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, but make sure to use gluten-free flour if you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions.
- Can I make this recipe for a crowd? Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe to feed a crowd. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Juicy Baked Chicken Breast with Lemon Butter recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish. The combination of lemon and butter creates a rich and tangy flavor profile that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
With its simple ingredients and quick preparation time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. And with its versatility, you can serve it with a variety of sides and garnishes to suit your taste.
So, go ahead and give this Lemon Butter Chicken recipe a try! Did you make this? Pin it on Pinterest or tag me on Instagram @EvasRecipes! I’d love to see your creations and hear your feedback.
Lemon Butter Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat
- Sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside
- Add 2 more tablespoons of butter to the skillet
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the skillet
- Simmer the lemon butter sauce for 2-3 minutes, until slightly reduced
- Return the chicken to the skillet and coat with the lemon butter sauce
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until cooked through
- Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges