Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.
- Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Ensure each piece is well coated.
- Seal the bag (or cover the dish) and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours. This step is crucial for infusing the chicken with delicious lemony flavors.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat will help create a beautiful golden crust on the chicken while keeping it juicy and tender inside.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and arrange it in a greased baking dish, leaving some space between each piece for even cooking.
- Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken.
- Add Chicken Broth:
- Pour the chicken broth (or white wine) into the bottom of the baking dish. This will keep the chicken moist while baking and create a lovely sauce.
- Cover and Bake:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. This will help steam the chicken and keep it tender.
- Uncover and Finish Baking:
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This final step allows the chicken to brown nicely.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
- Prepare the Sauce:
- While the chicken is baking, you can prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the remaining baking juices from the dish, honey (if using), and capers.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened. This step enhances the flavors and adds depth to your sauce.
Step 5: Serve
- Plate the Chicken:
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
- Drizzle the Sauce:
- Arrange the chicken on a serving platter and drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the top. Garnish with additional chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Enjoy:
- Serve your Baked Lemon Butter Chicken with your favorite sides—think fluffy rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad. The bright, zesty flavors will elevate any meal!
Tips for Success
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh lemons and high-quality butter will make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Marinate Longer for More Flavor: If you have the time, marinate the chicken for longer than two hours to enhance the flavors even further.
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to swap the dried herbs for fresh ones or add your favorite spices to customize the flavor profile.
Conclusion
This Baked Lemon Butter Chicken is a flavorful, versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The tender chicken, infused with bright lemon and aromatic herbs, is sure to impress. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen. Don’t forget to share your experience and variations in the comments below—your culinary adventure inspires others!
By providing not only a detailed recipe but also engaging content and tips, visitors are likely to stay on the page longer, explore related recipes, and engage with your site. Enjoy cooking!