Introduction to Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
Are you a busy young professional looking for a delicious, hassle-free meal that you can whip up after a long day at the office? Enter Baked Lemon Butter Chicken! This dish is not just a standard weeknight dinner; it’s a culinary experience that's quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor. With the right blend of herbs, rich butter, and zesty lemon, this recipe transforms humble chicken pieces into a dish worthy of your next dinner party.
Why Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a Game Changer for Young Professionals
For many of us juggling work and personal life, finding time to cook can be a challenge. This is where the magic of Baked Lemon Butter Chicken comes in. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish in the oven and ready to serve in under two hours. The slow bake yields tender, juicy meat infused with a creamy lemon sauce that complements a variety of side dishes, from rice to garlic mashed potatoes.
Imagine coming home, setting your oven, and letting the warm, inviting aroma wrap around you as it bakes. Perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep, this recipe allows you to savor home-cooked goodness without the stress.
So why wait? Give this delightful dish a try, and elevate your weeknight meals to a whole new level! Want to see more delicious chicken recipes? Check out this resource.
Ingredients for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
Creating a delicious Baked Lemon Butter Chicken dinner is all about selecting the right ingredients that pack in flavor and keep the preparation simple. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this mouthwatering dish:
- 10 dark meat chicken pieces: Drumsticks and thighs work well here; just trim off any excess fat for a cleaner bite.
- Kosher salt: 2 teaspoons will elevate the chicken’s natural flavors.
- Smoked paprika and chicken seasoning: 1 tablespoon each creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons for that rich base.
- Red onion: Half a cup, minced, adds a lovely sweetness when sautéed.
- Flat-leaf parsley: Chopped, to bring a fresh herbaceous note.
- Garlic: 1 tablespoon, minced, is essential for that aromatic touch.
- Red pepper flakes: Just a pinch (½ teaspoon) for a subtle kick.
- Chicken stock: 1 cup provides moisture and builds the sauce.
- Fresh lemon juice: 1 tablespoon to tangy it up.
- Parmesan cheese: 1 cup, freshly grated, to give a creamy richness.
- Heavy whipping cream: ⅓ cup to create a luxurious sauce.
For more kitchen tips, you can check out resources like The Kitchn or Food Network for inspiration!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before diving into the deliciousness of your Baked Lemon Butter Chicken, it’s crucial to gather everything you’ll need. This ensures a smooth cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 10 dark meat chicken pieces (drumsticks or thighs)
- 2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon Montreal chicken seasoning or your favorite blend
- 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 freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ⅓ cup heavy whipping cream
By making sure you have all your ingredients ready, you’ll avoid unnecessary interruptions while cooking.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics for Maximum Flavor
The first step in creating that mouthwatering lemon-infused aroma is to sauté your aromatics. In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once it's bubbling, add the minced red onions. Sauté them for about two minutes until they're fragrant. Next, add the chopped parsley and garlic, stirring well to combine. This is where your kitchen starts to smell divine!
You might want to check out this guide on sautéing basics for additional tips on mastering the art of flavor enhancement.
Step 3: Prepare the Delicious Lemon Cream Sauce
Now it’s time to create that creamy lemon sauce that will elevate your chicken. After the aromatics have sautéed, add the lemon juice and red pepper flakes. Follow this by pouring in the chicken stock. Once mixed, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and then the heavy whipping cream. Allow it to come to a gentle simmer for about a minute. Then, take it off the heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 4: Season Your Chicken
While the sauce cools to avoid cooking the chicken prematurely, it’s time to give your chicken some love. Season each piece generously with kosher salt, smoked paprika, and your chosen seasoning blend. Make sure each piece is well-coated to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor!
Step 5: Bake and Broil to Perfection
In a baking dish, arrange the seasoned chicken and pour the creamy lemon sauce over it. Bake the dish uncovered at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 1 hour and 45 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through. Keep an eye on it to ensure it turns a beautiful golden brown. For that finishing touch, broil the chicken skin side up until it crisps nicely. This adds not just flavor but a delightful texture!
With these steps, you're set for a flavorful family dinner that could easily become a staple in your home. Pair it with rice or mashed potatoes to savor every drop of that delectable sauce!
Ready to dive into this baked lemon experience? Happy cooking!
Variations on Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
Lemon Butter Turkey Bacon Option
Looking to mix things up? Try swapping out regular bacon for turkey bacon in this baked lemon dish! Turkey bacon adds a unique flavor while keeping it lighter. Just cook the turkey bacon until crispy, chop it up, and scatter it over the chicken before baking. This twist will elevate the dish and introduce a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the lemony sauce.
Add Veggies for a One-Pan Meal
Want to simplify dinner? Add your favorite veggies directly to the baked lemon butter chicken dish! Think zucchini, bell peppers, or even asparagus. Toss them in with the chicken and sauce, and you’ll have a delicious, one-pan meal that takes minimal effort. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrition. You can explore more about one-pan meals through resources like BBC Good Food for inspiration!
Give these variations a try, and enjoy a fresh take on a family favorite!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
Cooking Baked Lemon Butter Chicken can be a breeze with a few handy tips! First, if you’re short on time, raise the oven temperature to 400°F and roast your chicken to cut the cooking time to about 1 hour and 10 minutes. To ensure even cooking, let your chicken sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Always look for signs of doneness: the meat should pull away from the bone effortlessly, and the chicken should have that beautiful golden brown color. For extra assurance, a meat thermometer reading of 165°F in the thickest part means your chicken is ready to savor! Enjoy this dish over rice or mashed potatoes to soak up all that delightful sauce.
For more cooking tips, check out Food Network's chicken cooking guidelines.
Serving Suggestions for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
Serving your Baked Lemon Butter Chicken can transform a delicious meal into a delightful experience. Here are a few suggestions to elevate your dinner:
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Pair with Starch: Serve over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice to soak up that rich sauce. Quinoa could also be a nutritious alternative!
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Add Fresh Salads: A side salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast. Try this recipe for a quick mixed green salad to balance the meal.
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Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies like asparagus, sweet potatoes, or zucchini can create a colorful plate that not only looks beautiful but also enhances your meal's nutritional value.
Experiment with these ideas to find your favorite combination! For more tips on side dishes, check out BBC Good Food for inspiration.
Time Breakdown for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
Planning your meal? Here's how your time will be spent with this delightful baked lemon butter chicken recipe!
Preparation Time
Getting ready for this dish only takes about 10 minutes. That’s just enough time to gather ingredients and prepare your chicken, making meal prep a breeze.
Cooking Time
The baking process spans 1 hour and 45 minutes. During this time, your chicken will soak up all those zesty flavors and become irresistibly tender.
Total Time
In total, you're looking at about 2 hours from start to finish. With this time investment, you’ll end up with a beautiful, flavor-packed meal that’s worth every minute.
For more details and to check out the full recipe, visit this link. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Facts for Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
When it comes to Baked Lemon Butter Chicken, delighting your taste buds doesn't mean sacrificing your nutrition. Here’s a quick snapshot of the key nutritional facts:
- Calories: Approximately 440 per serving. A hearty meal that’s both satisfying and indulgent!
- Protein: With about 35g per serving, this dish serves up a protein punch that's perfect for muscle recovery and overall health.
- Sodium: Roughly 800mg, aligning with daily recommended limits while still packin' flavor.
For more details on nutrient values, consider checking out resources like the USDA FoodData Central or the nutrition facts provided by the American Heart Association. Enjoy your cooking!
FAQs about Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
Can I use chicken breasts instead of dark meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe is designed for dark meat chicken, using chicken breasts is totally doable. Just remember, breasts may cook faster, so keep a close eye on them. The right internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). You might want to cut down on the baking time a bit to prevent them from drying out.
What sides pair best with Baked Lemon Butter Chicken?
This dish is incredibly versatile! Complement your baked lemon chicken with sides like roasted vegetables, fluffy rice, or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up that delicious sauce. A fresh green salad can also enhance the meal and bring a refreshing crunch.
How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked?
Visual cues go a long way! Look for the meat pulling away from the bone and a golden brown exterior. For precision, a meat thermometer should read 165°F (75°C). Happy cooking, and enjoy your flavorful feast! If you're keen on more details, check out resources like the USDA Meat and Poultry Guidelines for in-depth cooking tips.
Conclusion on Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
In conclusion, Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is not just a dish—it's a delightful experience! Perfectly tender and bursting with flavor, it’s the ideal centerpiece for any family meal. Try it with rice or mashed potatoes to savor the delicious sauce. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece, and don't forget to share your delicious results!
Baked Lemon Butter Chicken
Equipment
- Skillet
- baking dish
Ingredients
- 10 pieces dark meat chicken drumsticks and thighs, trimmed of any excess fat
- 2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon Montreal chicken seasoning or any chicken seasoning of choice, bullion is fine
- 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
- 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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