Name: Easy Baked Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 45 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10 chicken pieces (preferably Perdue thighs for better juiciness); 2.5 tsp salt; 1.5 tbsp paprika; 1 tbsp chicken seasoning; 3 tbsp unsalted butter (Kerrygold recommended for richer flavor); 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced into 1/4-inch pieces; 1/2 cup parsley, chopped; 1.5 tbsp garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes; 1 cup chicken stock (Swanson brand preferred); 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; 1/3 cup heavy cream; 1/2 tsp dried thyme

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Introduction

There’s something magical about the combination of lemon and butter, especially when paired with juicy baked chicken. This easy baked lemon butter chicken recipe delivers rich, tangy flavors with minimal effort and only one pan to clean. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners that feel gourmet without the fuss.

Easy Baked Lemon Butter Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

10 chicken pieces (preferably thighs for juiciness)
2.5 tsp salt
1.5 tbsp paprika
1 tbsp chicken seasoning
3 tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
1/2 cup parsley, chopped
1.5 tbsp garlic, minced
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1 cup chicken stock
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup cream
1/2 tsp dried thyme

Instructions

Step 1: Finely dice the red onion into 1/4-inch pieces, mince the garlic, chop the parsley, and grate the Parmesan cheese fresh if possible. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels, then season them generously on all sides with salt, paprika, and chicken seasoning. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced red onion and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to soften. Stir in the minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, and dried thyme, and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Pour the chicken stock into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer. Remove from heat, then stir in the freshly grated Parmesan and cream until smooth and fully combined. Let the sauce cool for a few minutes to prevent it from cooking the chicken prematurely.
Step 4: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Arrange the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish, skin-side up. Pour the cooled sauce evenly over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Bake for 1 hour and 45 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning.
Step 5: After baking, carefully switch your oven to the broiler on high heat. Place the baking dish under the broiler for 2–4 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning. This will caramelize the sauce and create a beautiful golden-brown finish.
Step 6: Let the chicken rest in the dish for 2–3 minutes before serving. Transfer each piece to plates and spoon any remaining sauce over the top for extra flavor and moisture.

Tips & Variations

Use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces for juicier results and more flavor.
Substitute yellow or white onions if red onions aren’t available.
Fresh basil or cilantro can replace parsley for a different herbal note.
Use Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese instead of Parmesan if desired.
Half-and-half or whole milk can substitute for cream; simmer longer to thicken if needed.
Vegetable stock or white wine mixed with water can replace chicken stock for variety.
Allow the sauce to cool before pouring it over the chicken to prevent separation.

Storage

Store leftover chicken and sauce together in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, warm in a 350°F oven covered with foil for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes. Add a splash of chicken stock or cream if the sauce thickens too much during reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in?

Yes, boneless chicken works well too, but reduce the baking time by about 10-15 minutes to avoid drying out the meat.

What should I serve with baked lemon butter chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. Roasted vegetables or a light salad provide a fresh contrast to the rich flavors.