Description
Succulent “Baked Lemon Butter Chicken” promises a Mediterranean-inspired culinary journey with zesty, tender flavors. Juicy chicken breasts infused with citrus and herbs deliver a simple yet elegant meal perfect for weekend dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 10 dark meat chicken pieces (drumsticks and thighs, trimmed of excess fat)
Seasonings:
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon Montreal chicken seasoning (or any chicken seasoning blend)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
Dairy and Liquid Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Aromatics and Herbs:
- 1/2 cup red onion, minced
- 1/2 cup flat-leaf parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Warm the oven to 375°F, preparing a cozy environment for the chicken to roast.
- Create a flavor foundation by melting butter in a skillet, then gently sautéing onions until they release their aromatic essence.
- Enhance the sauce with a vibrant blend of fresh parsley, zesty garlic, tangy lemon juice, and a hint of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
- Develop a luxurious sauce by incorporating chicken stock, stirring in creamy Parmesan, and blending with rich heavy cream until silky smooth.
- Transform the chicken with a robust seasoning blend of kosher salt, smoky paprika, and savory Montreal chicken seasoning, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken in a baking dish, then lavishly drench with the prepared herb-infused sauce.
- Roast uncovered for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, rotating midway to guarantee even cooking and maximize flavor penetration.
- Activate the broiler to crisp the chicken skin, achieving a golden-brown exterior that promises irresistible texture.
- Finish by generously basting the chicken with the aromatic sauce just before serving, ensuring maximum flavor and moisture.
Notes
- Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative that maintains the sauce’s creamy texture and adds a subtle tropical hint.
- Choose bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor and juiciness, ensuring the meat stays tender during the long baking process.
- Allow chicken to rest for 10 minutes after baking to help redistribute juices and prevent dryness, resulting in more succulent meat.
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help spices adhere better and promote crispy, golden-brown skin during broiling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 38 g
- Saturated Fat: 20 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 180 mg